Souvlaki — which means "small skewer" in Greek — is often rolled to eat in your hand as a snack, but this more substantial version is served on a plate with a knife and fork. If you like, accompany the souvlaki with lemon wedges.
Frequently asked questions
What does souvlaki consist of?
Souvlaki is marinated meat that's grilled or broiled on skewers. We use chicken for this recipe, but it's often made with lamb, beef, or pork as well. Don't confuse it with a gyro, which is made from meat shaved off a vertical rotisserie.
What is souvlaki marinade made of?
Whereas some recipes require a lengthy marination time, the chicken here is simply tossed in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and a generous amount of oregano, plus salt and pepper just before it's cooked.
Notes from the Food & Wine Test Kitchen
When using wooden skewers, soak them first in water for at least 10 minutes (preferably 30 minutes or more, especially if they're thin), or they’ll smoke during cooking. This should also prevent the skewers from splitting as you slide the chicken cubes onto them. As you thread the meat, be sure not to leave exposed gaps between pieces; the food protects the skewers from becoming severed over the flames.
Suggested pairing
This traditional Greek preparation goes with a number of choices to suit the occasion and your taste. Look for a very fruity red such as a Beaujolais, a sparkling wine from California, or a Sauvignon Blanc from northern Italy.
