Embarking on a culinary journey to make delicious Instant Pot Greek Chicken Souvlaki can be both exciting and rewarding. This dish encapsulates the vibrant flavors of Greece with its succulent chicken, aromatic herbs, and tangy lemon, all brought together effortlessly using an Instant Pot. Let's dive into this simple yet flavorful recipe that promises to elevate your weeknight dinners or weekend feasts.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 medium red onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Lemon slices for serving
Instructions
Marinating the Chicken
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are thoroughly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a deeper flavor.
👉 Note: Marinating the chicken enhances its flavor significantly. If you have time, marinate overnight for the best results.
Preparing the Instant Pot
- Once the chicken has marinated, place the slices of onion at the bottom of your Instant Pot.
- Arrange the marinated chicken pieces on top of the onions.
- Add the bell pepper pieces around the chicken.
- Pour the chicken broth or water into the pot, being careful not to rinse off the marinade from the chicken.
Cooking
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot, set the valve to ‘Sealing’, and press the ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ button. Set it to high pressure for 7 minutes if using chicken breasts, or 10 minutes for chicken thighs.
- After cooking, let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then do a quick release for any remaining pressure.
Finishing Touches
- Open the pot, and using a slotted spoon, transfer the chicken, onions, and peppers to a serving dish.
- If you want to thicken the remaining juices, switch the Instant Pot to ‘Saute’ mode and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes. Alternatively, for a richer flavor, mix in some Tzatziki sauce or simply serve it as is.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices for that authentic Greek touch.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the Greek Chicken Souvlaki with pita bread, Tzatziki sauce, tomatoes, cucumber slices, and feta cheese for an authentic experience.
- For a lighter meal, pair with a Greek salad or serve over rice pilaf.
💡 Note: Tzatziki sauce can elevate this dish to the next level. You can buy it or easily make it at home by blending Greek yogurt with cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and dill.
In closing, this Instant Pot Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe is not just about cooking; it's about experiencing the rich heritage of Greek cuisine with convenience. The tender, juicy chicken soaked in aromatic herbs and tangy lemon brings a touch of the Mediterranean to your dining table. With minimal effort, you can enjoy this dish that's perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or simply a cozy dinner at home. The versatility of this recipe allows for easy customization, making it a go-to for both seasoned cooks and beginners looking to impress.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
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Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just increase the cooking time by a couple of minutes and ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
What can I serve with Greek Chicken Souvlaki?
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Aside from the mentioned pita bread and Tzatziki, you can also serve it with roasted potatoes, grilled vegetables, or even over a bed of greens as a salad.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
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You can marinate the chicken from 30 minutes up to 24 hours. The longer you marinate, the more flavor the chicken will absorb.
Related Terms:
- Greek lemon chicken soup
- Avgolemono
- Lemon chicken soup
- Daging ayam
- Krim
- Chicken tortilla soup
