Keto Chicken Souvlaki Recipe (Low-Carb & Healthy)
Chicken Souvlaki is a flavorful Greek-inspired dish that’s perfect for a keto-friendly meal. This recipe is low in carbs, high in protein, and packed with Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients (Serves 4):
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cubed)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 1 cup cucumber (diced)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/2 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives (optional)
- 1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled, optional)
- Low-carb tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
- Add chicken cubes to the marinade, tossing to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to 8 hours for deeper flavor).
3. Preheat Grill:
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
4. Skewer the Chicken:
- Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.
5. Grill the Chicken:
- Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has grill marks (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
6. Serve:
- Serve the chicken with a fresh Greek salad, feta, olives, and a dollop of tzatziki.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: ~300 kcal
- Net Carbs: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
Tips for Success:
- Best Chicken Cut:
- Use chicken thighs for juicier results or breasts for leaner meat.
- Marination Time:
- For deeper flavor, marinate overnight.
- Skewer Tips:
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Cooking Options:
- Cook the chicken in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes if a grill isn’t available.
Recipe Variations:
- Make It a Bowl: Serve chicken over cauliflower rice or a mixed green salad.
- Add Veggies to Skewers: Use zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Dairy-Free: Skip the feta and use a dairy-free tzatziki sauce.
- Keto Wrap: Use low-carb flatbread or lettuce wraps for a portable meal.
Benefits of Keto Chicken Souvlaki:
- Low-Carb & High-Protein: Great for keto, paleo, and low-carb diets.
- Rich in Healthy Fats: Olive oil adds heart-healthy fats.
- Meal Prep-Friendly: Perfect for batch cooking and meal prep.
- Flavorful & Nutritious: Packed with herbs, lean protein, and veggies.
Enjoy this delicious Keto Chicken Souvlaki as a healthy and satisfying meal that fits perfectly into your low-carb lifestyle! 🍗🍋🌿