If you’ve ever dreamed of biting into tender, flavorful, charred-to-perfection chicken wrapped in warm pita bread with a hint of zesty lemon and herbs, this Chicken Souvlaki Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. Bursting with Mediterranean charm and an irresistible combination of fresh oregano, garlic, and a touch of spice, this dish is both simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or looking to spice up your weeknight meals, Chicken Souvlaki is a surefire way to bring sunshine and savory goodness to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chicken Souvlaki Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role: from the fresh oregano that brings an authentic herbal freshness, to the lemon juice adding bright acidity, and the cumin powder infusing a warm earthiness. Together, these ingredients create a harmonious marinade that transforms ordinary chicken into something truly special.
- 3 tbsp fresh oregano (or 1.5 tbsp dried oregano): The heart of the marinade, delivering vibrant and aromatic flavors.
- 1 tbsp garlic, minced: Provides a punch of pungency that deepens the savory profile.
- 3 tbsp olive oil: Ensures the chicken stays juicy and helps meld the marinade ingredients together.
- ¼ cup lemon juice (from about 1 lemon): Adds a refreshing tang that brightens every bite.
- ½ tsp cumin powder: Adds a subtle smoky warmth that complements the herbs perfectly.
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: For a burst of color and fresh grassy notes.
- ½ tsp chili flakes: Gives a gentle kick without overpowering the dish.
- ½ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors, making every bite sing.
- ¼ tsp black pepper (freshly cracked): Adds mild heat and earthiness.
- Grilled pita (for serving): Soft and warm, perfect for wrapping the juicy chicken.
- Oil spray (for grilling): Helps prevent sticking and achieves those perfect grill marks.
How to Make Chicken Souvlaki Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Begin by combining the fresh or dried oregano, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, cumin powder, chopped parsley, chili flakes, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper in a bowl or a sealable plastic bag. Stir or shake until all the ingredients are well mixed. This marinade is your flavor powerhouse, infusing the chicken with a delightful balance of herbaceous, tangy, and spicy notes.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Cut your chicken into bite-sized pieces, about 1 to 2 inches each, to ensure they cook evenly on the grill. Toss the chicken into the marinade, making sure every piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 20 to 30 minutes. For even deeper flavor, feel free to marinate it overnight — the chicken will soak up all those delicious seasonings.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, or if you prefer, cook them on a grill pan sprayed lightly with oil. Grill the chicken for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning them occasionally for that perfect, slightly charred finish. The chicken should be cooked through but still juicy — tender bites wrapped in smoky charred edges are the goal here.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once grilled to perfection, gather your pita bread, fresh sides, and perhaps a dollop of tzatziki or a squeeze of lemon. The Chicken Souvlaki Recipe really shines when served warm and fresh. Now it’s time to dig in and savor every bite of this mouthwatering meal.
How to Serve Chicken Souvlaki Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra oregano can really elevate your Chicken Souvlaki Recipe. A drizzle of lemon juice or a dollop of creamy tzatziki sauce also brings a refreshing contrast to the grilled flavors, making every mouthful more vibrant and lively.
Side Dishes
Pair your chicken souvlaki with a crisp Greek salad filled with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese for a traditional taste of the Mediterranean. Alternatively, fluffy rice pilaf or roasted vegetables make excellent sides, soaking up all the lovely juices and complementing the herb-infused chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chicken souvlaki as a platter style meal with all the fixings laid out buffet-style. Guests can assemble their own pita wraps or create a vibrant salad bowl topped with grilled chicken. You can even turn it into a kebab bowl with rice, veggies, and a drizzle of tzatziki for a fresh, satisfying bowl meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers of this delicious Chicken Souvlaki Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, they will keep well for up to 3 days, making for an easy next-day lunch or quick dinner fix.
Freezing
To freeze your cooked chicken souvlaki, place the cooled chicken pieces in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. It’s a great way to have a ready-to-go protein option for busy days when cooking from scratch isn’t an option.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy your stored or frozen chicken, reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it may dry out the chicken. Warming slowly preserves the juicy, tender texture you love about the dish.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast for this Chicken Souvlaki Recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative because they tend to be juicier and more forgiving on the grill. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they cook through without drying out.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
While 20 to 30 minutes is great for a quick meal, marinating the chicken overnight really intensifies the flavors and makes the meat extra tender. Just remember not to go too long over 24 hours to avoid any texture changes.
Do I need a grill to make this recipe?
You can definitely make this Chicken Souvlaki Recipe without a grill by using a grill pan or even a stovetop skillet. Just make sure to get a nice char on the chicken by cooking over medium-high heat and turning frequently.
Is this recipe spicy?
The chili flakes add a subtle kick but the heat is mild and balanced by the lemon and herbs. Feel free to adjust the chili flakes based on your spice preference or omit them entirely if you want a milder dish.
What can I serve instead of pita?
If you’re looking to switch things up, serve the chicken souvlaki over a bed of rice, with roasted vegetables, or wrapped in lettuce leaves for a low-carb option. It’s just as delicious without the pita!
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to try this Chicken Souvlaki Recipe. It truly is a wonderfully simple yet flavor-packed dish that makes any meal feel like a special occasion. Once you get those juicy, herb-infused chicken bites paired with warm pita and fresh garnishes, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner. So grab your ingredients, fire up the grill, and enjoy a little Mediterranean magic right at home!
Print
Chicken Souvlaki Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Chicken Souvlaki recipe offers a delicious, traditional Greek grilled chicken skewers marinated in a vibrant blend of fresh oregano, garlic, lemon juice, and spices. Perfect for a quick 25-minute meal, it’s juicy, flavorful, and pairs beautifully with grilled pita or a fresh Greek salad, making it an excellent choice for a light yet satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Marinade
- 3 tbsp fresh oregano (or 1.5 tbsp dried oregano)
- 1 tbsp garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ cup lemon juice (from about 1 lemon)
- ½ tsp cumin powder
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ tsp chili flakes
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper (freshly cracked)
For Grilling
- Chicken (cut into 1-2 inch pieces) – approximately 1 lb (not listed but implied)
- Grilled pita (for serving)
- Oil spray (for grilling)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl or sealable bag, combine fresh oregano, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, cumin powder, chopped parsley, chili flakes, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until evenly blended to create a vibrant marinade base.
- Marinate the Chicken: Cut the chicken into 1-2 inch pieces for even cooking. Add the chicken pieces into the marinade and toss well to ensure each piece is coated completely. Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate the chicken for 20-30 minutes to infuse flavors. For a deeper, more robust taste, you can marinate overnight.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers or use a grill pan as an alternative. Lightly spray the grill or pan with oil to prevent sticking. Grill the chicken for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally to cook evenly and develop a beautiful charred exterior, until fully cooked through and juicy inside.
- Serve: Remove the chicken souvlaki from the grill and serve hot with grilled pita bread, rice, or a fresh Greek salad. Garnish with extra fresh parsley to brighten the dish and add a pop of color.
Notes
- For best results, marinate the chicken overnight to enhance the depth of flavor.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent burning.
- You can substitute chicken thighs or breasts depending on your preference, though thighs tend to remain juicier while grilling.
- Adjust the chili flakes to your desired spice level for mild to moderate heat.
- Serve with tzatziki sauce or a squeeze of extra lemon for added zest.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
