Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Greek Chicken Souvlaki is one of the most iconic dishes from the Mediterranean, bringing bold, zesty flavors to your table with minimal effort. This dish features juicy, marinated chicken skewers grilled until golden, then wrapped in warm pita with fresh toppings and creamy tzatziki sauce. It’s a perfect blend of savory, citrusy, and herbaceous notes, all packed into one satisfying bite.

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Why You’ll Love This Greek Chicken Souvlaki

This dish delivers in every way. It’s quick, healthy, and full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting a summer barbecue, or meal prepping for the week, Greek Chicken Souvlaki fits the occasion.

• Packed with Mediterranean herbs and citrus
• High in protein and naturally gluten-free
• Requires simple ingredients and basic tools
• Great for wraps, bowls, or served over rice

This dish is more than just grilled chicken. It’s Greek street food at its best—delicious, fresh, and easy to customize.

Preparation Phase and Tools You’ll Need

Before you get started, prepare your tools and ingredients for a smooth cooking process. Having everything ready makes a big difference in how your Greek Chicken Souvlaki turns out.

Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl (for marinade)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Zip-top bag or shallow dish
• Skewers (metal or soaked wooden)
• Tongs
• Meat thermometer
• Grill or oven

Why These Tools Matter

Each tool plays a role in achieving that perfect texture and flavor.

• A meat thermometer ensures your chicken is fully cooked.
• Skewers help with even cooking on all sides.
• A mixing bowl makes marinade prep easy.
• Using metal skewers saves time and avoids charring.

Preparation Tips

• Cut chicken into equal-sized cubes for even cooking.
• Don’t rush the marinating. Let it sit at least 45 minutes.
• If grilling, preheat your grill and oil the grates.
• Always let the chicken rest after cooking—it locks in the juices.

Ingredients List

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed

For the Marinade

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 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 wedges for squeezing

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Place the cubed chicken in a zip-top bag or bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken and toss to coat thoroughly. Seal and refrigerate for 45 minutes to 1 hour.

2. Prepare the Skewers

Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving small gaps between each piece. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.

3. Grill Method

• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
• Clean and oil the grates.
• Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally.
• Baste once with leftover marinade if desired (discard any unused marinade).
• Check that the internal temperature reaches 163°F, then remove and let rest. The temperature will rise to 165°F as it rests.
• Warm pita bread on the grill for added flavor.

4. Oven Method (Alternative)

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

5. Assemble and Serve

To serve, place grilled chicken in warm pita bread. Top with sliced tomatoes, red onion, a generous spoon of tzatziki sauce, and a squeeze of lemon juice. For extra flavor, sprinkle with crumbled feta or chopped parsley.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is incredibly versatile and fits into many meal styles. Here are some popular ways to serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki:

1. Traditional Wrap

Serve the grilled chicken in warm pita bread. Add sliced tomatoes, red onions, a spoonful of tzatziki, and a squeeze of lemon. For extra flavor, top with crumbled feta and chopped parsley.

2. Plated with Sides

Skip the pita and plate the chicken alongside roasted vegetables, salad, and lemon potatoes for a full meal.

3. Mediterranean Bowls

Layer rice or quinoa, grilled chicken, hummus, chopped cucumbers, and olives in a bowl. It’s a great option for meal prep or low-carb eaters.

4. Party Skewers

Serve souvlaki skewers as appetizers or at barbecues. Keep the pita and toppings on the side for guests to build their own wraps.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Getting the most out of your Greek Chicken Souvlaki means avoiding these frequent missteps:

Overcooking the Chicken

Chicken breast can dry out quickly. Always use a meat thermometer and remove the chicken from heat at 163°F. Let it rest to finish cooking.

Skipping the Marinade Time

The marinade adds more than just surface flavor. It helps tenderize the meat. Don’t rush it—marinate for at least 45 minutes.

Using Cold Chicken

Allow the chicken to come to room temperature before grilling. Cold meat seizes on contact with heat and cooks unevenly.

Crowding the Skewers

Leave space between pieces on the skewer. This ensures the heat circulates and each piece browns evenly.

Neglecting Rest Time

Resting the chicken after grilling helps the juices redistribute. Cut too soon, and the meat can dry out.

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How to Perfect This Recipe

Even small improvements can take your Greek Chicken Souvlaki from good to incredible. Here’s how to elevate the dish:

Use Chicken Thighs

If you prefer juicier meat, swap the breasts for boneless thighs. They hold flavor and moisture well, especially on the grill.

Add Fresh Herbs

Enhance the flavor by adding fresh oregano, dill, or parsley to the marinade or as a finishing garnish.

Try Greek Yogurt Marinade

For an extra tender and tangy profile, mix Greek yogurt into the marinade. It adds creaminess and depth.

Use a Grill Pan Indoors

No outdoor grill? A cast iron grill pan or stovetop griddle works well for achieving grill marks and caramelization.

Side Dish Recommendations

Pair your Greek Chicken Souvlaki with one or more of these complementary sides to build a complete, flavorful meal.

1. Greek Salad

A mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta dressed in olive oil and oregano. Crisp and refreshing.

2. Lemon Roasted Potatoes

Toss potato wedges in lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and olive oil, then roast until golden and tender.

3. Hummus and Pita Chips

A creamy, protein-packed dip that balances the smoky chicken. Serve as an appetizer or side.

4. Dolmas (Stuffed Grape Leaves)

Savory grape leaves filled with rice and herbs add a traditional Greek touch.

5. Tabbouleh

This herby bulgur salad with parsley, mint, and lemon is bright, light, and balances the richness of the meat.

6. Grilled Vegetables

Zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant grilled with olive oil and garlic make a hearty side.

7. Greek Orzo Salad

A pasta salad with olives, cucumbers, feta, and lemon vinaigrette offers a satisfying texture contrast.

8. Feta and Olive Mezze

A simple platter of marinated feta, Kalamata olives, and cherry tomatoes rounds out the meal with salty, briny notes.

Storage Instructions

Greek Chicken Souvlaki stores well if handled properly. Here’s how to keep your leftovers fresh without losing texture or flavor.

Refrigeration

• Store cooked chicken in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Store toppings (like onions and tomatoes) separately to prevent sogginess.

Freezing

• Freeze grilled chicken in a zip-top freezer bag or vacuum-sealed pouch.
• It will stay fresh for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tzatziki and Pita

• Tzatziki sauce lasts 3–4 days in the fridge.
• Pita bread can be frozen and reheated in the oven or on the stovetop.

Reheating Tips

Reheating Greek Chicken Souvlaki correctly keeps it juicy and flavorful. Avoid the microwave if possible to prevent drying out the meat.

Oven Method

• Preheat oven to 300°F.
• Place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for 10–15 minutes.

Stovetop Method

• Use a skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil.
• Heat until warm, turning occasionally for even reheating.

Grill Method

• Reheat chicken skewers over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side.
• This method restores the grilled texture and flavor.

Expert Recipe Tips

Elevate your Greek Chicken Souvlaki with a few professional techniques.

Use Fresh Ingredients

Fresh lemon juice, garlic, and herbs make a big difference. Avoid bottled lemon juice and pre-minced garlic when possible.

Prep Ahead

Marinate the chicken the night before for deeper flavor. You can even skewer it in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook.

Tweak the Marinade

Add a splash of red wine vinegar or a dollop of plain Greek yogurt for a richer, tangier taste.

Double the Recipe

Make extra for meal prep. Greek Chicken Souvlaki is excellent in wraps, bowls, and salads throughout the week.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between souvlaki and gyro?

Both are popular Greek street foods. Souvlaki features grilled meat on skewers, while gyro is sliced meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie.

Can I make this with chicken thighs?

Yes. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work very well. They’re more forgiving on the grill and add extra juiciness.

Can I bake souvlaki instead of grilling?

Absolutely. Use the oven method: bake at 350°F, flipping halfway through, until internal temp hits 163°F.

What’s the best marinade time?

Marinate for at least 45 minutes. For best results, marinate overnight.

Is Greek Chicken Souvlaki healthy?

Yes. It’s high in protein, low in carbs, and uses heart-healthy olive oil. Serve it with fresh vegetables and whole grain pita for a balanced meal.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. You can marinate the chicken a day in advance. Grill and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Assemble wraps just before serving.

What’s the best pita bread for souvlaki?

Look for thick, soft Greek-style pita. It holds the fillings better and won’t fall apart when wrapped.

Can I use other proteins?

Definitely. Lamb, beef, shrimp, or tofu can replace chicken. Adjust cooking time based on the protein you use.

Conclusion

Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a timeless dish that delivers bold, Mediterranean flavor with every bite. It’s easy to prepare, quick to cook, and endlessly versatile. Whether you serve it at a summer cookout, a casual family dinner, or prep it for lunchboxes, it never disappoints.

The combination of juicy marinated chicken, fresh toppings, and warm pita makes this recipe a staple for any home cook. Plus, with proper storage and reheating, it’s a meal you can enjoy more than once.

Try your own variation, mix up the sides, or follow the classic route—either way, Greek Chicken Souvlaki deserves a spot in your rotation.