Sizzling skewers: unlocking the secret of perfectly grilled chicken souvlaki (cooking time included)

Grilling chicken souvlaki is a delightful culinary experience that yields succulent and flavorful skewers. However, determining the optimal cooking time is crucial to achieve the perfect doneness without overcooking or undercooking. This comprehensive guide will provide detailed instructions on how long to cook chicken souvlaki on the grill, ensuring you create mouthwatering skewers every time.

Choosing the Right Skewers

Before grilling, it’s essential to select the appropriate skewers. Metal skewers are ideal as they conduct heat evenly and prevent the chicken from sticking. Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.

Marinating the Chicken

Marinating the chicken enhances its flavor and tenderness. Combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, and spices to create a flavorful marinade. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for maximum absorption.

Preheating the Grill

Properly preheating the grill is crucial for even cooking. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (400-450°F or 200-230°C) for gas grills or medium heat (350-400°F or 175-200°C) for charcoal grills.

Grilling the Souvlaki

Skewering the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, ensuring the pieces are evenly spaced.

Grilling Time: Grill the chicken souvlaki over medium-high heat for 10-12 minutes, turning them every 2-3 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) as measured by a meat thermometer.

Determining Doneness

Internal Temperature: The most accurate way to determine the doneness of chicken souvlaki is by using a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken and check that it has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Visual Cues: Another way to check for doneness is by observing the visual cues. The chicken should be slightly charred on the outside and opaque throughout the inside. The juices should run clear when pierced with a fork.

Resting the Souvlaki

After grilling, allow the souvlaki to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful skewers.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the chicken souvlaki with your favorite sides such as pita bread, tzatziki sauce, grilled vegetables, or Greek salad. Drizzle with additional olive oil and lemon juice to enhance the flavor.

Tips for Perfect Souvlaki

• Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for tender and flavorful skewers.
• Cut the chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance its flavor and tenderness.
• Grill the souvlaki over medium-high heat to prevent them from drying out.
• Turn the souvlaki frequently to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
• Use a meat thermometer to accurately determine the doneness of the chicken.
• Allow the souvlaki to rest before serving to redistribute the juices and enhance the flavor.

FAQ

Q: How long should I marinate the chicken?
A: Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for maximum absorption.

Q: What is the ideal grilling temperature for chicken souvlaki?
A: Grill the souvlaki over medium-high heat (400-450°F or 200-230°C) for gas grills or medium heat (350-400°F or 175-200°C) for charcoal grills.

Q: How do I know when the chicken souvlaki is done cooking?
A: Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached 165°F (74°C) or observe visual cues such as slight charring and opaque meat.