Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Greek chicken souvlaki is a classic Mediterranean dish featuring marinated chicken grilled to perfection on skewers. Infused with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and aromatic herbs, this dish is juicy, flavorful, and easy to make. Serve it with warm pita, creamy tzatziki, and fresh vegetables for an authentic Greek dining experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with flavor – The combination of lemon, garlic, and herbs makes the chicken tender and delicious.
• Easy to prepare – Simple ingredients and quick marination time make it a convenient meal option.
• Versatile serving options – Enjoy it with pita, rice, salad, or as part of a Mediterranean platter.
• Great for grilling – Perfect for outdoor barbecues, gatherings, or a quick weeknight dinner.
• Healthy and protein-rich – A nutritious meal that’s naturally low in carbs and high in protein.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken breast, cut into cubes
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Dried oregano
• Dried thyme
• Paprika
• Salt & black pepper
• Metal or wooden skewers (soaked if wooden)

Directions

1. Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for deeper flavor.
3. Assemble the skewers: Thread the marinated chicken onto metal or pre-soaked wooden skewers.
4. Grill the souvlaki: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook the skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C).
5. Serve and enjoy: Serve hot with warm pita, tzatziki sauce, fresh vegetables, or a Greek salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Marination time: 1 hour (overnight recommended)
• Cooking time: 10-12 minutes
• Total time: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

• Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade for extra heat.
• Herb swap: Use fresh oregano and thyme instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor.
• Different proteins: Try this recipe with pork, lamb, or shrimp instead of chicken.
• Oven-baked: If you don’t have a grill, bake the skewers at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.
• Vegan alternative: Use tofu or mushrooms in place of chicken and adjust marination time accordingly.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover souvlaki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze marinated raw chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw before grilling.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for 5 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor to the souvlaki.

How do I prevent wooden skewers from burning?

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before using them to prevent burning on the grill.

What is the best way to get a charred texture on the chicken?

Cook over high heat for a few minutes at the end or use a cast-iron grill pan for a perfect sear.

Can I cook this on a stovetop?

Yes, use a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and cook the skewers for about 12 minutes, turning occasionally.

What should I serve with chicken souvlaki?

Serve with warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, Greek salad, lemon rice, or roasted potatoes.

Can I prepare the marinade in advance?

Yes, the marinade can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

A minimum of 1 hour is recommended, but for the best flavor, marinate overnight.

Can I make this recipe without skewers?

Yes, you can grill or bake the marinated chicken pieces without skewers and still get delicious results.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, chicken souvlaki is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any side dishes (such as pita) are also gluten-free if needed.

How do I make souvlaki for a large crowd?

Double or triple the recipe and grill multiple batches. You can also keep cooked skewers warm in the oven at 200°F (95°C) until ready to serve.

Conclusion

Authentic Greek chicken souvlaki is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for grilling season, family dinners, or festive gatherings. With its Mediterranean-inspired marinade and juicy, charred chicken, this dish pairs wonderfully with fresh sides like tzatziki, pita, and a crisp Greek salad. Whether you cook it on the grill or in the oven, this souvlaki recipe is a must-try for lovers of Greek cuisine!