Greek Chicken Souvlaki

This Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a delightful dish that transports your taste buds to the heart of the Mediterranean. Perfect for weeknight dinners or summer gatherings, this recipe features tender, marinated chicken grilled to perfection. Served with fresh vegetables and creamy tzatziki on warm pita, it’s a meal everyone will love.

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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
• For the Marinade
• For Serving
• For Garnish
• 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
• Classic Pita Wrap
• Salad Bowl
• Mezze Platter
• Tzatziki Dipping Sauce
• Grilled Veggies
• Lemon Wedges
• 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
• What is Greek Chicken Souvlaki?
• How do I make Greek Chicken Souvlaki more flavorful?
• Can I use other meats for souvlaki?
• What side dishes pair well with Greek Chicken Souvlaki?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, you can enjoy this flavorful dish in just over an hour.
• Flavor Packed: The marinade infuses the chicken with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, creating a burst of Mediterranean flavors.
• Versatile Serving Options: Whether you prefer it in a wrap or on a platter, this recipe adapts to your serving style.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with lean chicken and fresh vegetables, it’s a nutritious choice for any meal.
• Perfect for Grilling: Ideal for outdoor barbecues or indoor grilling, it’s perfect for any occasion.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes all the difference in preparing your Greek Chicken Souvlaki.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skewers (metal or wooden)
• Grill or oven
• Zip-top bag or mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Baking sheet (for oven method)

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: These help hold the chicken pieces together for even grilling and easy serving.
• Grill or Oven: Both methods provide excellent results; choose based on your preference and equipment available.
• Zip-top Bag: Great for marinating chicken evenly while minimizing mess.
• Whisk: Ensures the marinade ingredients are well combined for maximum flavor.

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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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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 the 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 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). 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.

With this Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe, you’ll create a delicious meal that brings everyone together around the table!

How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Serving Greek Chicken Souvlaki is an art that brings vibrant Mediterranean flavors to your table. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delicious dish.

Classic Pita Wrap

• Use warm pita bread to wrap the grilled chicken, tomatoes, and onions for a traditional approach that is both tasty and comforting.

Salad Bowl

• Layer chopped romaine lettuce with grilled chicken, tomatoes, red onions, and a generous drizzle of tzatziki for a refreshing salad option.

Mezze Platter

• Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki alongside assorted dips like hummus and baba ghanoush, accompanied by olives and feta for a delightful appetizer spread.

Tzatziki Dipping Sauce

• Offer extra tzatziki on the side for dipping the chicken or fresh vegetables, enhancing the dish’s flavor profile.

Grilled Veggies

• Pair your souvlaki with grilled vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini, adding color and nutrition to your meal.

Lemon Wedges

• Provide lemon wedges for squeezing over the souvlaki. This brightens the flavors and adds a zesty kick.

How to Perfect Greek Chicken Souvlaki

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Greek Chicken Souvlaki, follow these essential tips.

• Marinate Longer – Letting chicken marinate for more than an hour enhances its flavor. Overnight marination can yield even more tenderness.
• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh herbs and spices elevate the taste of your marinade. Opt for freshly squeezed lemon juice instead of bottled.
• Preheat Grill Properly – Ensure your grill is hot before cooking; this helps sear the chicken quickly and lock in moisture.
• Don’t Overcrowd Skewers – Leaving space between chicken pieces allows even cooking and better char on each piece.

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Best Side Dishes for Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Pairing side dishes with Greek Chicken Souvlaki can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Greek Salad – A fresh mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese dressed with olive oil and oregano complements the souvlaki perfectly.
2. Tzatziki Sauce – This creamy yogurt-based sauce made with cucumber, garlic, and dill adds a refreshing contrast to the grilled chicken.
3. Roasted Potatoes – Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs fit well as a hearty side that balances the meal’s lighter elements.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Brush corn with olive oil and grill it until charred for a sweet side that pairs nicely with savory flavors.
5. Pita Chips – Crunchy pita chips served with dips make for a delightful snack or appetizer before diving into the main dish.
6. Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf infused with lemon zest or herbs can serve as a filling base alongside your souvlaki platter.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Greek Chicken Souvlaki, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here’s how to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Bold Marinade Timing: Not marinating the chicken long enough can lead to bland flavors. Aim for at least 45 minutes for the best taste.
• Bold Overcrowding Skewers: Placing too much chicken on skewers can prevent even cooking. Leave space between pieces for optimal grilling.
• Bold Ignoring Temperature: Failing to check the chicken’s internal temperature may result in undercooked meat. Ensure it reaches 163°F for safety.
• Bold Skipping Rest Time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after grilling can dry it out. Let it rest for 5 minutes to retain juices.
• Bold Forgetting Tzatziki Sauce: Skipping the tzatziki can leave your souvlaki lacking that signature flavor. Always serve with this essential topping.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Greek Chicken Souvlaki in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Greek Chicken Souvlaki

• Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Greek Chicken Souvlaki

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Greek Chicken Souvlaki?

Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a popular street food consisting of grilled marinated chicken served on pita bread, often topped with vegetables and tzatziki sauce.

How do I make Greek Chicken Souvlaki more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor of your Greek Chicken Souvlaki, consider marinating overnight and using fresh herbs like dill or parsley along with oregano.

Can I use other meats for souvlaki?

Yes! While this recipe uses chicken, you can also make souvlaki with lamb, pork, or beef for different flavor profiles.

What side dishes pair well with Greek Chicken Souvlaki?

Sides like Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or lemon rice complement Greek Chicken Souvlaki beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. It makes a great meal for any occasion, from casual weeknights to summer barbecues. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite veggies or trying different marinades!

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