Bbq bonanza: master the art of chicken souvlaki in minutes with this foolproof guide!

Grilling chicken souvlaki is a culinary art that requires precision and attention to detail. Getting the cooking time just right ensures tender, juicy meat that melts in your mouth. This comprehensive guide will empower you with the knowledge to master this grilling technique and create mouthwatering souvlaki every time.

Factors Affecting Cooking Time

Before delving into the specific cooking time, it’s crucial to understand the factors that can influence it:

• Size and Thickness of Skewers: Thicker skewers require longer cooking time.
• Marinade: Marinating the chicken tenderizes it, reducing cooking time.
• Heat of Grill: Higher heat cooks faster, while lower heat takes longer.
• Temperature of Chicken: Cold chicken takes longer to cook than room temperature chicken.

Cooking Time Guidelines

Based on these factors, here are the recommended cooking times for chicken souvlaki BBQ:

• Small Skewers (1/2-inch thick): 8-10 minutes on medium heat
• Medium Skewers (1-inch thick): 12-15 minutes on medium heat
• Large Skewers (1 1/2-inch thick): 15-20 minutes on medium heat

Tips for Optimal Cooking

To achieve perfectly cooked souvlaki, follow these tips:

• Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to 350-400°F (175-200°C) before grilling.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. Cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Flip Regularly: Flip the skewers every 2-3 minutes to ensure even cooking.
• Baste with Marinade: Brush the skewers with marinade during grilling to keep them moist and flavorful.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the souvlaki rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes to prevent overcooked or undercooked souvlaki:

• Overcrowding the Grill: Don’t overcrowd the grill, as this will prevent the skewers from cooking evenly.
• Cooking on Too High Heat: High heat can burn the outside of the chicken before the inside is cooked.
• Underestimating Marinade Time: Marinating the chicken for too short a time will result in tough, dry meat.
• Ignoring the Grill Temperature: Use a grill thermometer to ensure the grill is at the correct temperature.

How to Check if Chicken Souvlaki is Cooked

There are a few ways to check if your chicken souvlaki is cooked through:

• Meat Thermometer: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. It should read 165°F (74°C).
• Juices Run Clear: Pierce the chicken with a fork or knife. If the juices run clear, the chicken is cooked.
• No Pink in the Middle: Cut into the thickest part of the chicken. There should be no pink or red in the center.

Perfect Pairing: Sauces and Sides

Complement your grilled chicken souvlaki with a variety of sauces and sides to enhance its flavor:

• Tzatziki Sauce: A classic Greek yogurt sauce with cucumbers, garlic, and herbs.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a bright and tangy touch.
• Pita Bread: Warm pita bread is perfect for wrapping up the souvlaki and adding extra flavor.
• Greek Salad: A refreshing side dish with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and feta cheese.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: How long should I marinate the chicken before grilling?
A: Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate.

Q: Can I use wooden or metal skewers?
A: Both wooden and metal skewers can be used. Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.

Q: What type of wood chips should I use for grilling souvlaki?
A: Hickory or mesquite wood chips add a smoky flavor to the chicken.

Q: How do I prevent the chicken from drying out while grilling?
A: Baste the skewers with marinade or olive oil during grilling to keep them moist.

Q: Can I cook chicken souvlaki in the oven?
A: Yes, you can cook chicken souvlaki in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.