Yaohon-inspired Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Ingredients

While the original Yaohon dish is typically stir-fried and features a variety of Chinese ingredients and flavors, this adapted Greek Chicken Souvlaki incorporates the essence of Yaohon by infusing the traditional Greek recipe with Chinese elements. The marinade includes soy sauce and ginger, adding a subtle Asian twist to the Mediterranean flavors. Additionally, the cooking method shifts from stir-frying to grilling, giving the dish a distinct smoky flavor. We alse have the original recipe for Yaohon, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces 500g (1.1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Tzatziki sauce, for serving Tzatziki sauce, for serving
• Pita bread, for serving Pita bread, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories: 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat: 10g (Saturated Fat: 2g)
• Carbohydrates: 12g (Sugar: 1g)
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, ground cumin, grated ginger, salt, and pepper.
2. 2.
   Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss until well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers.
5. 5.
   Grill the chicken skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through and slightly charred.
6. 6.
   Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
7. 7.
   Serve the Greek Chicken Souvlaki with tzatziki sauce and warm pita bread.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chicken breasts — To ensure tender and juicy chicken, avoid overcooking. Grill the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Tzatziki sauce — For a creamier texture, strain the grated cucumber before adding it to the sauce. This will remove excess moisture and prevent the sauce from becoming watery.

Tips & Tricks

• Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before threading the chicken to prevent them from burning on the grill.
• For a smokier flavor, grill the pita bread for a few seconds on each side before serving.
• Customize your souvlaki by adding colorful vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes to the skewers.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or drizzle hot sauce over the finished souvlaki.
• Leftover souvlaki can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Greek Chicken Souvlaki as a main course, accompanied by a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce and warm pita bread. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an extra burst of flavor. Pair it with a Greek salad or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the grilled chicken skewers on a platter, allowing the vibrant colors of the ingredients to shine through. Place a bowl of tzatziki sauce in the center for dipping. Serve the warm pita bread in a basket or on a separate plate, ensuring it is easily accessible to your guests. Sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs over the dish for an elegant finishing touch.