Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of the Middle East! This zaatar chicken souvlaki is not just a meal, it's an explosion of aromatic spices, tender chicken, and mouthwatering flavors that will leave you craving more. In just 25 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality dish that's so easy and delicious, it'll become your new go-to recipe for impressing friends and satisfying your hunger with a burst of exotic taste.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 2 tbsp zaatar spice mix
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pita bread, for serving
- Vegetables, for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 lb of chicken breast, cubed; 2 tbsp of zaatar spice mix; 2 tbsp of olive oil; salt to taste; pita bread for serving; and vegetables for garnish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed chicken breast, zaatar spice mix, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to ensure that the chicken is evenly coated with the spice and oil.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let the chicken marinate for at least 10 minutes at room temperature. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken.
- While the chicken is marinating, prepare your grill or stovetop grill pan. Preheat it over medium-high heat until hot.
- Once the grill is ready, thread the marinated chicken cubes onto skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.
- Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- While the chicken is grilling, warm the pita bread on the grill for a minute or two on each side, just until soft and slightly charred.
- Once the chicken is done, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This helps retain the juices.
- To serve, place the grilled zaatar chicken souvlaki in the warm pita bread and garnish with your choice of vegetables, such as lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, or onions.
- Enjoy your delicious zaatar chicken souvlaki with a side of your favorite dipping sauce or yogurt!
Tips
- Marination is Key: Let the chicken sit in the zaatar spice mix for at least 10 minutes, but for even more flavor, marinate for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
- Skewer Strategy: If using wooden skewers, always soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Metal skewers work great too!
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your grill or grill pan is preheated to medium-high heat for those perfect char marks and even cooking.
- Don't Overcook: Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for precision.
- Rest the Meat: Always let the chicken rest for 2-3 minutes after grilling to keep it juicy and tender.
- Customize Your Garnish: While traditional vegetables work great, feel free to experiment with your favorite fresh toppings to make the dish your own.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 85mg
