Greek Chicken Souvlaki

This Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a delicious street food-style dish that will transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean. Perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to weekend barbecues, this recipe features tender, marinated chicken grilled to perfection and served on warm pita. With fresh tomatoes, red onion, and tzatziki sauce, it’s a delightful blend of flavors that everyone will love.

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• REMEMBER
• How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
• Step 2: Prepare Skewers
• Step 3: Grill Method
• Step 4: Oven Method
• Step 5: Assemble and Serve
• How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• On Warm Pita
• With Fresh Vegetables
• As Skewers
• How to Perfect Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• Best Side Dishes for Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• Reheating Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use other meats for Greek Chicken Souvlaki?
• What is the best way to serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki?
• How do I make my own tzatziki sauce?
• Can I marinate chicken overnight?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a flavorful meal ready in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a wrap, platter, or even in salads for varied meals.
• Packed with Flavor: The marinade infuses the chicken with bright Mediterranean tastes that are irresistible.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with lean chicken and fresh vegetables, it’s a nutritious choice for any meal.
• Perfect for Grilling: Ideal for summer cookouts or easy indoor grilling when the weather isn’t cooperating.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to make Greek Chicken Souvlaki:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skewers (metal or wooden)
• Grill or oven
• Mixing bowls
• Zip-top bags
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: Essential for threading the chicken pieces; they help ensure even cooking.
• Grill or Oven: Provides the heat needed to create perfectly charred and juicy chicken.
• Mixing Bowls: Ideal for mixing marinades and keeping everything organized during preparation.
• Basting Brush: Useful for applying marinade while grilling, enhancing flavor without drying out the chicken.

Ingredients

For the Chicken
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed*

For the Marinade
¼ cup olive oil
3 tablespoons lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

For Serving
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
2 plum tomatoes, sliced
Tzatziki sauce
Pita bread (khubz)
* Lemon slices, for squeezing

PIN THIS!

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Place the cubed chicken in a large zip-top bag or bowl. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag (removing excess air) and toss to coat. Refrigerate for 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Step 2: Prepare Skewers

Remove chicken from the marinade and thread onto skewers, leaving space between each piece. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.

Step 3: Grill Method

Preheat grill to medium-high. Clean and oil the grates. Grill the skewers for 8–10 minutes while turning occasionally until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 163°F. Baste once with reserved marinade while grilling (discard any leftover marinade). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling (it will continue to cook to 165°F). You can warm pita on the grill if desired.

Step 4: Oven Method

Preheat oven to 350°F. Place chicken cubes on a greased baking sheet. Bake on the top oven rack for 5–7 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 163°F. Rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Serve grilled chicken on warm pita with sliced tomatoes, red onions, tzatziki sauce, and a squeeze of lemon.

Enjoy your homemade Greek Chicken Souvlaki!

How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Serving Greek Chicken Souvlaki is all about bringing out the vibrant flavors of this dish. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a casual meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.

On Warm Pita

• Pita Bread: Use soft, warm pita as a base for your souvlaki. It adds a comforting texture and complements the flavors perfectly.
• Tzatziki Sauce: A generous dollop of tzatziki adds creaminess and tang, balancing the savory chicken.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Sliced Tomatoes: Fresh, juicy tomatoes provide a burst of flavor and color, enhancing the dish’s Mediterranean essence.
• Red Onions: Thinly sliced red onions add a crunchy bite and a bit of sharpness that contrasts nicely with the chicken.

As Skewers

• On Skewers: Serve directly on skewers for an authentic street-food feel. This makes it easy to grab and eat.
• Garnish with Lemon: Offer lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the chicken, brightening every bite.

How to Perfect Greek Chicken Souvlaki

To make your Greek Chicken Souvlaki truly shine, follow these essential tips for perfect results.

• Bold Marinade: Ensure your chicken marinates for at least 45 minutes to absorb all those delicious flavors fully.
• Consistent Size: Cut chicken pieces into uniform sizes for even cooking on the grill or in the oven.
• Preheat Properly: Always preheat your grill or oven adequately to achieve that ideal golden-brown crust.
• Don’t Overcrowd Skewers: Leave space between chicken pieces to allow heat circulation and ensure thorough cooking.
• Rest After Cooking: Let the grilled chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps retain moisture and enhances flavor.

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Pairing side dishes with Greek Chicken Souvlaki can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese dressed in olive oil enhances the Mediterranean theme.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers roasted until tender add color and flavor to your plate.
3. Lemon Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with lemon juice and herbs provides a zesty complement to the savory chicken.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with olive oil and grilled adds a smoky sweetness that pairs wonderfully with souvlaki.
5. Chickpea Salad: A hearty chickpea salad with herbs offers protein and a satisfying texture that balances the meal.
6. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): These savory bites filled with rice and herbs make for a delightful addition to your dinner spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Marinating and grilling can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making Greek Chicken Souvlaki.

• Skipping the marinade: Marinating the chicken is crucial for flavor. Don’t rush this step; allow at least 45 minutes for the best results.
• Overcrowding skewers: Putting too much chicken on each skewer will lead to uneven cooking. Leave space between pieces for even heat distribution.
• Not preheating the grill: A cold grill can result in sticking and uneven cooking. Preheat your grill to medium-high before adding the skewers.
• Ignoring resting time: Letting the chicken rest after grilling helps retain its juices. Skipping this can lead to dry meat.
• Using old spices: Fresh spices enhance flavor significantly. Always check the freshness of your dried oregano and other spices before use.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store Greek Chicken Souvlaki in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• • Containers: Use airtight containers to maintain freshness.

Freezing Greek Chicken Souvlaki

• • Duration: Freeze cooked chicken souvlaki for up to 3 months.
• • Containers: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, removing excess air before sealing.

Reheating Greek Chicken Souvlaki

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Greek Chicken Souvlaki.

Can I use other meats for Greek Chicken Souvlaki?

You can certainly use pork, lamb, or even shrimp instead of chicken for different flavors and textures.

What is the best way to serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki?

Serve it on warm pita bread with fresh tomatoes, red onions, and tzatziki sauce for a classic experience.

How do I make my own tzatziki sauce?

Combine yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, and dill or mint for a refreshing tzatziki sauce that pairs perfectly with souvlaki.

Can I marinate chicken overnight?

Yes! Marinating overnight will deepen the flavors even more. Just ensure you store it properly in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

Greek Chicken Souvlaki is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with various toppings or sides based on your preferences. Whether it’s a quick weeknight meal or a summer barbecue favorite, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try!