Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe for Everyone

Name: Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons); 4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Pita bread or flatbreads for serving; Tzatziki sauce for dipping

Published: April 29, 2025

by Clara Harper

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This amazing Greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

When I first made Greek Chicken Souvlaki for my friends, they were practically fighting over the last skewer. Their delighted faces still make me chuckle!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts are ideal; adjust depending on your hungry crowd.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin is best; it adds richness and depth to your marinade.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed for that zesty brightness; bottled versions won’t cut it!
Garlic Cloves: Use 3-4 cloves for a robust flavor that elevates every bite.
Dried Oregano: This herb is essential for authentic Mediterranean flavor; don’t skip it!
Paprika: A dash adds warmth and smoky undertones to your skewers.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; adjust according to your taste preference.
Pita Bread or Flatbreads: For serving; they hold all those tasty toppings beautifully.
Tzatziki Sauce: A cooling yogurt-based sauce that pairs perfectly with the warm spices of the souvlaki.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, pressed garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined. The aroma will tickle your senses.

Marinate the Chicken: Cut chicken into bite-sized cubes and add them to the marinade. Mix well to ensure each piece is coated and let sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb those fantastic flavors.

Preheat Your Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C). If using skewers, soak wooden ones in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning.

Skewer It Up: Thread marinated chicken onto skewers (about 4-5 pieces per skewer). Leave some space between pieces for even cooking and better juiciness.

Grill Those Skewers: Place skewers on the grill and cook each side for 5-7 minutes until charred and cooked through (an internal temp of 165°F/75°C). Flip occasionally for even grilling.

Serve and Enjoy: Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes. Serve with warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and fresh veggies—prepare for tastebud fireworks!

This delightful dish will have everyone asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds—before you know it!

You Must Know

This amazing Greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken for at least an hour to enhance flavor, then skewer and grill until golden brown.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap chicken for tofu or veggies if you want a vegetarian version. Adding fresh herbs can also elevate the dish!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover souvlaki in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh herbs for a burst of flavor that dried herbs simply can’t match.
Keep your grill hot to achieve those beautiful sear marks, ensuring juicy chicken every bite.
Don’t overcrowd your skewers; this allows even cooking and prevents steaming!

Cooking Greek chicken souvlaki reminds me of summer BBQs with my family—everyone gathered around, laughter filling the air, and delicious aromas wafting from the grill.

FAQ

What is Greek chicken souvlaki?

Greek chicken souvlaki is marinated grilled chicken skewers served with pita or salad.

Can I use other meats for souvlaki?

Yes! Lamb, beef, or even shrimp work wonderfully as alternatives in this recipe.

How do I know when my chicken is done?

Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) before serving for safe consumption.

0 Shares