This Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a mouthwatering dish that brings the essence of Mediterranean cuisine right to your table. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a summer barbecue, this recipe features juicy marinated chicken grilled to perfection and served on warm pita with fresh toppings. The combination of vibrant flavors makes it a standout choice for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Chicken
- For the Marinade
- For Serving
- 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
- Wrap it Up
- Add Freshness
- Pair with Beverages
- 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
- How do I make authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki?
- Can I use thighs instead of breasts?
- What is tzatziki sauce?
- Can I prepare this dish in advance?
- What sides go well with Greek Chicken Souvlaki?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Flavorful – The marinade combines olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for an irresistible taste.
- Quick and Easy – With a prep time of just 15 minutes and grilling or baking options, this dish fits any schedule.
- Versatile Serving Options – Enjoy it as a wrap, in a salad, or paired with rice for variety.
- Healthy Ingredients – Made with lean chicken and fresh vegetables, it’s a nutritious choice for any meal.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a casual dinner or an outdoor party, this souvlaki will impress your guests.
Tools and Preparation
To ensure your Greek Chicken Souvlaki turns out perfectly, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skewers (metal or wooden)
- Grill or oven
- Large zip-top bag or bowl
- Whisk
- Baking sheet (for oven method)
Importance of Each Tool
- Skewers – These help cook the chicken evenly while allowing for easy flipping on the grill.
- Grill or oven – Choose your preferred cooking method; both yield delicious results.
- Whisk – A handy tool for mixing the marinade thoroughly to ensure the chicken is well coated.
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
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 pieces.
- 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, turning occasionally until golden brown and 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).
- 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 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, packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion!
How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Serving Greek Chicken Souvlaki is all about enhancing its vibrant flavors and textures. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will elevate your meal experience.
Wrap it Up
- Pita Wrap: Place grilled chicken, sliced tomatoes, and red onions in warm pita for a delicious handheld meal.
- Lettuce Wrap: For a low-carb option, use large lettuce leaves instead of pita. Fill with chicken and toppings for a fresh bite.
Add Freshness
- Tzatziki Dip: Serve extra tzatziki on the side for dipping. Its creamy texture pairs perfectly with the grilled chicken.
- Greek Salad: A refreshing Greek salad with cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese can complement the souvlaki beautifully.
Pair with Beverages
- Greek Wine: A glass of crisp white wine or light red can enhance the meal’s Mediterranean flavor.
- Lemonade: Refreshing homemade lemonade offers a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory chicken.
How to Perfect Greek Chicken Souvlaki
To achieve the best Greek Chicken Souvlaki, consider these helpful tips that will ensure your dish is bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection.
- Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours instead of just 45 minutes.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh oregano or parsley in addition to dried herbs for a fresher taste.
- Avoid Overcrowding Skewers: Leave space between chicken pieces on skewers for even cooking and better char.
- Monitor Grill Temperature: Keep the grill at medium-high heat for optimal grilling without burning the chicken.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the grilled chicken to rest for 5 minutes helps retain its juices, making it more tender.
- Experiment with Veggies: Add bell peppers or zucchini to skewers for added color and nutrients.
Best Side Dishes for Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Pair your Greek Chicken Souvlaki with these delicious side dishes that complement its flavors and make your meal complete.
- Greek Salad: A mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta dressed in olive oil enhances freshness.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with herbs adds a comforting base that works well with grilled meats.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until tender can provide a hearty side option.
- Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed chickpea salad with lemon dressing adds texture and nutrition.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned simply offer a satisfying crunch alongside the souvlaki.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with olive oil and grilled brings summer vibes to your plate.
- Tabbouleh: This herby bulgur salad brightens up your meal while providing additional fiber.
- Hummus Platter: A mix of hummus with pita chips or veggie sticks creates a great appetizer before the main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Greek Chicken Souvlaki can be simple, but some common mistakes can ruin the dish. Here are some tips to ensure a perfect outcome.
- Bold Marinade Overkill: Using too much marinade can overpower the chicken. Stick to the recommended amounts for balance.
- Ignoring Soaking Skewers: Forgetting to soak wooden skewers can lead to burning. Always soak them for at least 30 minutes.
- Crowding the Grill: Placing too many skewers on the grill at once prevents even cooking. Grill in batches if necessary.
- Skipping Resting Time: Cutting into the chicken right after grilling will release juices. Let it rest for about 5 minutes for better flavor.
- Using Cold Pita Bread: Serving with cold pita can make the meal less enjoyable. Warm the pita on the grill before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Greek Chicken Souvlaki in an airtight container.
- It is best consumed within 3-4 days to maintain freshness.
Freezing Greek Chicken Souvlaki
- Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Label with date for reference.
Reheating Greek Chicken Souvlaki
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until hot, checking frequently to avoid drying out.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil, and cover until heated evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions people ask about making Greek Chicken Souvlaki.
How do I make authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki?
To achieve authenticity, use fresh ingredients and traditional spices like oregano and garlic. Marinating overnight enhances flavor significantly.
Can I use thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs offer more flavor and juiciness, making them an excellent alternative for Greek Chicken Souvlaki.
What is tzatziki sauce?
Tzatziki is a creamy yogurt-based sauce mixed with cucumber, garlic, and herbs. It complements Greek Chicken Souvlaki perfectly.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and assemble it when ready to serve for quick meals.
What sides go well with Greek Chicken Souvlaki?
Serve with a refreshing Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or crispy fries. They pair beautifully with this flavorful dish!
Final Thoughts
Greek Chicken Souvlaki is not just delicious; it’s versatile too! You can customize it with various toppings or sides based on your preferences. Whether you’re grilling during summer or enjoying a quick weeknight meal, this recipe offers delightful Mediterranean flavors that everyone will love. Try it today!
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Greek Chicken Souvlaki
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Greek Chicken Souvlaki, a delightful Mediterranean dish that transforms your dining experience. This recipe features succulent marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection, served warm on pita bread with fresh toppings like tomatoes, red onions, and creamy tzatziki sauce. It’s the ideal choice for weeknight dinners or summer barbecues, bringing a taste of Greece right to your table. Whether enjoyed as a wrap or plated with a refreshing salad, Greek Chicken Souvlaki is sure to impress family and friends alike!
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 plum tomatoes, sliced
- Tzatziki sauce
- Pita bread (khubz)
- Lemon slices, for squeezing
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: Combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl; coat cubed chicken and refrigerate for 45 minutes.
- Skewer the chicken: Thread marinated chicken onto skewers.
- Grill or bake: Grill on medium-high heat for 8–10 minutes or bake at 350°F for 5–7 minutes per side until cooked through.
- Assemble: Serve on warm pita with tomatoes, red onions, and tzatziki.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling/Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer (about 150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg