If you’re searching for a summertime meal that brings both flavor and fun to your table, Chicken Souvlaki absolutely fits the bill. This classic Greek dish features juicy, marinated chicken threaded onto skewers and grilled to charred perfection — it’s zesty, vibrant, and incredibly easy to assemble. I love how every bite bursts with Mediterranean goodness, thanks to the herbaceous marinade and fresh lemon juice. Chicken Souvlaki is an instant vacation in each mouthful, and it’s perfect for sharing with friends or turning a busy weeknight into a festive feast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the reasons Chicken Souvlaki is such a knockout is its short ingredient list; each item has a job to do, from keeping the chicken moist to infusing it with authentic Greek flavors. Let’s dig into what you’ll need to make this meal shine.
- Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Use boneless, skinless pieces cut into 1-inch cubes for the juiciest, most tender skewers.
- Olive Oil: The base of the marinade, it locks in moisture and carries the flavors deep into the chicken.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Adds bright, refreshing acidity that helps tenderize the meat and gives Souvlaki its signature zing.
- Garlic: Three minced cloves create a savory punch that permeates the chicken.
- Red Wine Vinegar: This touch of tang rounds out the marinade and gives the flavor profile a delicious lift.
- Dried Oregano: The essential Greek herb adds earthy, floral notes that make the marinade unmistakably Mediterranean.
- Salt: Just enough to enhance all the flavors and keep the chicken perfectly seasoned.
- Black Pepper: A bit of heat to balance the brightness of the lemon and vinegar.
- Wooden Skewers: Soak these if grilling to keep them from burning; they make cooking and serving a breeze.
How to Make Chicken Souvlaki
Step 1: Mix the Marinade
Gather a large bowl or a trusty zip-top bag for your marinade. Whisk together the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Take a moment to inhale — you’ll smell that classic Greek aroma already! This herb-flecked mixture holds the key to juicy, flavorful Chicken Souvlaki.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Tumble your chicken cubes right into the marinade and toss until every piece is thoroughly coated. The longer the chicken bathes in this mixture, the deeper the flavor; aim for at least 1 hour, but if you can wait 2–4 hours, you’ll taste the difference. Cover and refrigerate during this time, letting those Mediterranean flavors infuse the meat.
Step 3: Skewer the Chicken
Once marinated, thread the chicken cubes onto your soaked wooden skewers. Leave a little space between each piece so that the heat can circulate — this tip guarantees even grilling and golden edges. If you want extra color or crunch, alternate chicken with bell pepper or red onion pieces for a touch of tradition and extra appeal.
Step 4: Grill to Perfection
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lay your skewers down and listen for that satisfying sizzle! Grill the Chicken Souvlaki for 10 to 12 minutes, turning every few minutes, until each piece is beautifully golden and cooked through. You’re looking for a little char here and there — that’s where all the flavor hides.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy Hot
Slide the piping hot skewers off the grill and onto a platter. Chicken Souvlaki loves to be served immediately — pile them next to soft pita, creamy tzatziki, and a mountain of crisp salad for the ultimate Greek feast. You’ll want seconds, trust me!
How to Serve Chicken Souvlaki
Garnishes
Never underestimate the power of finishing touches! For Chicken Souvlaki, a generous shower of fresh-chopped parsley or dill brightens the plate, a wedge of lemon begs to be squeezed, and a dusting of extra oregano or flaky sea salt pulls all the flavors together. For a special touch, a quick grind of black pepper just before serving wakes up all the aromatics.
Side Dishes
While Chicken Souvlaki is the star, it plays beautifully with classic Greek sides. Serve it with pillowy pita and a bowl of creamy homemade tzatziki for dipping, or try a bright Greek salad (tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, feta) for color and crunch. Roasted potatoes seasoned with lemon and herbs, or some summery grilled vegetables, round out the meal wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to shake things up, Chicken Souvlaki is up for anything! Wrap the grilled chicken in warm pita with a dollop of tzatziki and a handful of crisp veggies for an easy handheld wrap. For parties, slide the cooked chicken off the skewers and pile atop a platter with toothpicks for easy bites. Or build grain bowls layered with rice, salad, and chicken for healthy make-ahead lunches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Chicken Souvlaki (lucky you!), store the cooled skewers in an airtight container in the fridge. The chicken will stay delicious and tender for up to 3 days, ready to be tossed onto a salad or stuffed into pita at a moment’s notice.
Freezing
Chicken Souvlaki also freezes really well. Remove the cooked chicken from the skewers and store in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep for up to 3 months; when cravings strike, just thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
For best results, gently reheat your Chicken Souvlaki on a skillet or grill over medium heat until warmed through; this helps maintain the outside’s char and the meat’s juiciness. If you’re in a hurry, microwaving works too — just cover the chicken with a damp paper towel to avoid drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for Chicken Souvlaki?
Absolutely! In fact, many people prefer thighs because they stay extra juicy and flavorful during grilling. Both options work beautifully, so choose whichever you love best.
What’s the minimum marinating time for great Chicken Souvlaki flavor?
One hour is enough to infuse the meat with tasty Greek flavors, but if you can manage 2–4 hours, you’ll notice deeper, more pronounced seasoning. Don’t marinate much longer than overnight, as the acids in lemon and vinegar can make the chicken too soft.
Can I cook Chicken Souvlaki without a grill?
Definitely! You can bake the skewers on a sheet pan at 425°F (220°C) for 18–20 minutes, turning once, or sear them in a hot grill pan on your stovetop until charred and cooked through. Either way, you’ll have irresistible results.
Are there gluten-free options for serving Chicken Souvlaki?
Yes, the chicken itself is naturally gluten-free! Just swap out traditional pita for gluten-free wraps or serve your Chicken Souvlaki atop a salad, rice, or roasted vegetables for a completely wheat-free feast.
How can I add more vegetables to my Chicken Souvlaki skewers?
Easy! Alternate the marinated chicken pieces with chunks of bell pepper, red onion, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes before grilling. This adds color, crunch, and more Mediterranean flair to each skewer.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Souvlaki is a recipe I come back to time and again for its ease, flavor, and simple joy. It’s so versatile and full of Mediterranean sunshine, whether you’re grilling for a crowd or just treating yourself. If you haven’t made Chicken Souvlaki at home yet, now’s the perfect time to invite it into your kitchen — your tastebuds will thank you!
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Chicken Souvlaki Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including marinating)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Chicken Souvlaki recipe is a delicious Greek dish featuring marinated and grilled chicken skewers. Perfect for a flavorful and healthy meal, these skewers are great for serving with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a fresh salad.
Ingredients
Chicken Souvlaki:
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- wooden skewers (soaked in water if grilling)
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add chicken cubes, coat well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Skewer and grill: Thread marinated chicken onto skewers. Grill over medium-high heat for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked through.
- Serve: Enjoy hot with pita, tzatziki, and a side salad.
Notes
- You can bake the skewers at 425°F (220°C) for 18–20 minutes if desired.
- Add bell peppers or onions to the skewers for additional flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer portion
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
