Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Greece with this Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or casual barbecues, this dish features juicy chicken marinated in aromatic herbs and spices. Grilled to perfection, it pairs beautifully with fresh vegetables and warm pita, making it a delightful choice for any occasion.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken Marinade
• For the Skewers
• How to Make Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
• Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
• Step 3: Preheat the Grill
• Step 4: Assemble Skewers
• Step 5: Grill to Perfection
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• With Warm Pita Bread
• On a Fresh Salad
• With Tzatziki Sauce
• In a Pita Pocket
• As Part of a Mezze Platter
• How to Perfect Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• Best Side Dishes for Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• Reheating Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What type of chicken is best for souvlaki?
• Can I use other meats for souvlaki?
• How can I customize my souvlaki?
• Can I make authentic Greek chicken souvlaki ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The marinade infuses the chicken with vibrant Mediterranean flavors, ensuring every bite is packed with taste.
• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main course, in pitas, or over salads; the options are endless!
• Healthier Option: This grilled chicken dish is lower in calories but rich in protein, making it a healthy choice.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a family dinner or a barbecue with friends, everyone will love this tasty treat!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wooden skewers
• Grill or grill pan
• Large bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Wooden skewers: Essential for threading chicken and vegetables together. Soaking them prevents burning on the grill.
• Grill or grill pan: Provides that perfect char and smoky flavor that enhances your souvlaki.
• Large bowl: Ideal for mixing your marinade and ensuring even coating of the chicken.

Ingredients

For this delicious dish, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
• ¼ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup lemon juice
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Skewers

• 1 red onion, cut into chunks
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

How to Make Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken chunks to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

Step 4: Assemble Skewers

Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, alternating with pieces of red onion and bell peppers.

Step 5: Grill to Perfection

Grill the skewers for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately with warm pita bread and a side of tzatziki sauce for an authentic Greek experience!

How to Serve Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Authentic Greek chicken souvlaki is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your meal and satisfy your guests.

With Warm Pita Bread

• Serve the chicken souvlaki wrapped in warm pita bread for a classic Greek experience. The soft bread complements the juicy chicken perfectly.

On a Fresh Salad

• Create a vibrant salad by placing sliced chicken souvlaki over mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice for a refreshing touch.

With Tzatziki Sauce

• Pair your chicken skewers with creamy tzatziki sauce. This yogurt-based dip adds a cool and tangy flavor that balances the spices of the souvlaki.

In a Pita Pocket

• Stuff grilled chicken souvlaki into pita pockets along with lettuce, tomatoes, and onions. This makes for a fun and portable meal option.

As Part of a Mezze Platter

• Include chicken souvlaki on a mezze platter alongside hummus, feta cheese, olives, and stuffed grape leaves for an inviting appetizer spread.

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How to Perfect Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Perfecting your authentic Greek chicken souvlaki is all about the marinade and grilling technique. Here are some tips to help you achieve delicious results every time.

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs can enhance flavors compared to dried ones. Consider adding fresh oregano or parsley for an aromatic touch.

• Marinate longer: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate deeply into the meat.

• Soak skewers: Always soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning on the grill.

• Preheat the grill: Ensure your grill is hot before placing the skewers on it. A high temperature helps achieve those perfect char marks while keeping the chicken juicy.

• Turn occasionally: Rotate your skewers every few minutes while grilling to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.

Best Side Dishes for Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

To complete your meal with authentic Greek chicken souvlaki, consider these delicious side dishes that pair wonderfully with this Mediterranean delight.

1. Greek Salad: A mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, olives, and feta cheese dressed in olive oil provides freshness and crunch.

2. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned with lemon and herbs, roasted potatoes offer a comforting side that complements grilled flavors beautifully.

3. Grilled Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant drizzled with olive oil make an excellent accompaniment that adds vibrant colors to your plate.

4. Fried Zucchini Fritters: These crispy bites are made from grated zucchini mixed with herbs and served with tzatziki for dipping—perfect as finger food!

5. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf cooked with broth adds a satisfying base for your souvlaki without overpowering its flavors.

6. Spanakopita: These savory spinach pies bring flaky pastry filled with spinach and feta to your feast—a delightful addition to any Greek meal.

7. Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed salad of chickpeas tossed with herbs, lemon juice, and diced vegetables can be both filling and refreshing.

8. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): These tasty rolls filled with rice and spices are excellent for sharing or as part of a mezze platter alongside your souvlaki.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki, it’s easy to overlook key details. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Not marinating long enough: Marinating the chicken for less than an hour can lead to bland flavors. Aim for at least one hour, or overnight for the best taste.
• Using dry wooden skewers: Skewers that aren’t soaked may burn on the grill. Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before use to prevent this.
• Overcrowding the skewers: Putting too much chicken and veggies on each skewer can lead to uneven cooking. Space out the ingredients a bit to ensure even grilling.
• Ignoring grill temperature: Cooking at too low or high heat can result in undercooked chicken or burnt vegetables. Preheat your grill to medium-high for perfect results.
• Skipping the tzatziki: Serving without tzatziki is a missed opportunity. Prepare this creamy sauce to enhance the flavors of your souvlaki.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• item They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

• item You can freeze cooked chicken souvlaki for up to 3 months.
• item Use a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the souvlaki on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place the souvlaki on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Cook the souvlaki for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki.

What type of chicken is best for souvlaki?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best due to their tenderness and ability to absorb flavors from the marinade.

Can I use other meats for souvlaki?

Yes! While chicken is traditional, you can also use pork, beef, or lamb if you prefer different flavors.

How can I customize my souvlaki?

Feel free to add different vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. You can also adjust spices according to your taste preferences.

Can I make authentic Greek chicken souvlaki ahead of time?

Absolutely! Marinate the chicken and prep the skewers ahead of time; just grill them when you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

This Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe offers vibrant flavors and is incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. Don’t hesitate—try this delightful Mediterranean dish today!