What To Know
- Submerge the chicken pieces in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for an even deeper infusion.
- Place the skewers on the preheated grill and sear for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken has developed a golden-brown exterior.
- Rotate the skewers 90 degrees and continue grilling for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F as measured with a meat thermometer.
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of grilled chicken souvlaki, a culinary delight that tantalizes taste buds and sparks joy at any barbecue gathering. But to achieve that perfect balance of juicy meat and smoky char, understanding the optimal cooking time is crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll unravel the secrets of “how long to cook chicken souvlaki bbq” and empower you to grill like a pro.
Choosing the Right Chicken
The foundation of a succulent souvlaki lies in selecting high-quality chicken. Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, ensuring they are evenly cut into 1-inch chunks. This uniform size promotes consistent cooking throughout the skewers.
Marinating for Maximum Flavor
Marination is the key to infusing your souvlaki with an explosion of flavors. Combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, and salt in a large bowl. Submerge the chicken pieces in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for an even deeper infusion.
Skewering with Precision
Once marinated, thread the chicken chunks onto skewers. Use metal skewers that can withstand the heat of the grill without burning. Pack the chicken pieces snugly but not too tightly, allowing for even cooking and preventing the skewers from buckling.
Prepping the Grill
Prepare your grill for direct heat cooking. For gas grills, heat the burners to medium-high (400-450°F). For charcoal grills, arrange the coals in a single layer and heat until they are mostly white.
Grilling with Confidence:
1. Initial Sear (5-7 minutes): Place the skewers on the preheated grill and sear for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken has developed a golden-brown exterior.
2. Rotate and Continue Grilling (10-15 minutes): Rotate the skewers 90 degrees and continue grilling for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F as measured with a meat thermometer.
3. Rest for Juiciness (5-10 minutes): Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and juicy souvlaki.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your grilled chicken souvlaki with a variety of accompaniments to enhance its flavors. Consider pairing it with:
- Tzatziki sauce
- Pita bread
- Grilled vegetables
- Lemon wedges
- Red onion slices
Tips for Perfect Chicken Souvlaki BBQ:
- Use a marinade with acidic ingredients, such as lemon juice or vinegar, to tenderize the chicken.
- Don’t overcook the chicken. Remove it from the grill as soon as it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Let the souvlaki rest before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Serve with a variety of accompaniments to complement the flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the ideal internal temperature for cooked chicken souvlaki?
A: 165°F as measured with a meat thermometer.
Q: Can I use wooden skewers instead of metal skewers?
A: Yes, but wooden skewers need to be soaked in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
Q: How long can I marinate my chicken for?
A: You can marinate your chicken for as little as 30 minutes or up to overnight. The longer the marinating time, the more flavorful the souvlaki will be.
Q: What is the best way to prevent the skewers from buckling on the grill?
A: Pack the chicken pieces snugly but not too tightly on the skewers. Avoid overcrowding the skewers.
Q: How can I tell if my chicken souvlaki is cooked through?
A: Use a meat thermometer to measure the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F. You can also cut into a piece of chicken to check if the juices run clear.
