Transform Your Dinner Game With This Easy Pan-fried Chicken Souvlaki Recipe
What To Know
- Place the skewers in the hot pan and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
- Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a home cook looking for a convenient way to enjoy chicken souvlaki, pan-frying is an excellent option that delivers exceptional flavor and satisfaction.
- Can I cook the souvlaki in the oven instead of a pan.
Absolutely! Pan-frying chicken souvlaki is a convenient and delicious alternative to grilling, offering crispy and flavorful skewers straight from your stovetop.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 10 wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes with the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
2. Prepare the Skewers
Soak the wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
3. Thread the Chicken
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cube.
4. Heat the Pan
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil.
5. Pan-Fry the Souvlaki
Place the skewers in the hot pan and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the pan-fried chicken souvlaki immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as tzatziki or garlic mayonnaise.
Tips for Perfect Pan-Fried Chicken Souvlaki:
- Use high-quality chicken for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking. Cook the skewers in batches if necessary.
- Be patient and cook the chicken until it’s cooked through to ensure juiciness.
- Serve the souvlaki with a variety of sides, such as rice, pita bread, or grilled vegetables.
Variations:
- For a different flavor, try marinating the chicken in a combination of olive oil, lemon juice, honey, and herbs.
- Add vegetables to the skewers, such as bell peppers, onions, or zucchini.
- Serve the souvlaki with a spicy dipping sauce, such as harissa or Sriracha.
Benefits of Pan-Frying Chicken Souvlaki:
- Convenience: Pan-frying is a quick and easy way to cook chicken souvlaki.
- Healthier: Pan-frying requires less oil than deep-frying, making it a healthier option.
- Control: You have more control over the cooking time and temperature when pan-frying, ensuring perfectly cooked skewers.
The Verdict:
Yes, you can pan fry chicken souvlaki and enjoy delicious, crispy skewers right from your stovetop. With its ease of preparation, versatility, and numerous benefits, pan-frying is a fantastic alternative to grilling for this classic Greek dish.
Final Thoughts:
Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a home cook looking for a convenient way to enjoy chicken souvlaki, pan-frying is an excellent option that delivers exceptional flavor and satisfaction.
Questions We Hear a Lot
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used, but they will be slightly more fatty.
2. How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes is recommended, but overnight marinating will result in more flavorful skewers.
3. Can I cook the souvlaki in the oven instead of a pan?
Yes, you can cook the souvlaki in a preheated oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. What dipping sauces go well with pan-fried chicken souvlaki?
Tzatziki, garlic mayonnaise, and harissa are all excellent dipping sauce options.
5. Can I freeze the pan-fried chicken souvlaki?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked souvlaki for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.