Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Greek cuisine is a timeless celebration of bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and centuries-old culinary traditions. One of its most iconic dishes, Greek Chicken Souvlaki, is a perfect representation of this philosophy. Tender chicken marinated in olive oil, garlic, lemon, and herbs, then grilled to smoky perfection on skewers—this dish is as satisfying as it is simple.

Whether you’re planning a summer barbecue, a family dinner, or a quick weeknight meal, Chicken Souvlaki is a go-to recipe that never disappoints. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what makes this dish special, how to make it at home, what to serve it with, and answer the most common questions people have about it.

What Is Greek Chicken Souvlaki?

Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a traditional Greek street food dish consisting of small pieces of chicken, usually breast or thigh meat, marinated in a flavorful blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs like oregano and thyme. The marinated chicken is then threaded onto skewers and grilled over an open flame or stovetop grill until tender and slightly charred.

The name “souvlaki” comes from the Greek word souvla, meaning “skewer.” While pork is traditionally used in Greece, chicken is a lighter, healthier alternative that’s just as flavorful and popular.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: The ingredients are simple and easy to find.

• Flavorful: The marinade penetrates the chicken, making each bite juicy and tasty.

• Healthy: High in protein and low in carbs, it’s a great choice for balanced eating.

• Versatile: Serve it with pita, rice, salad, or grilled veggies—the combinations are endless.

• Crowd-pleaser: Great for parties, meal prep, or casual dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here are the classic ingredients used in a Chicken Souvlaki recipe:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• Olive oil (preferably extra virgin)

• Fresh garlic

• Lemon juice and zest

• Dried oregano (or fresh if available)

• Salt and black pepper

• Optional: Red wine vinegar, paprika, fresh thyme, or rosemary for added flavor

Read Also: Minimal Ingredients Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe for a Fast Meal

How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and any additional herbs or spices you prefer. Mix well.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and place them in a bowl or ziplock bag with the marinade. Refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours, or preferably overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Skewer the Chicken

Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto metal or wooden skewers (soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning).

Step 4: Grill the Souvlaki

Heat a grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the skewers for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly charred.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the chicken souvlaki with warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, chopped tomatoes, onions, lettuce, and lemon wedges.

What to Serve with Greek Chicken Souvlaki

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. Here are some perfect pairings:

• Tzatziki Sauce: A creamy yogurt-based dip with cucumber, garlic, and dill.

• Pita Bread: Fresh and warm, ideal for wrapping the chicken.

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• Greek Salad: Tomatoes, cucumber, olives, feta, and red onion with olive oil dressing.

• Rice Pilaf: Light and fluffy, balancing the grilled meat.

• Roasted Potatoes: Especially Greek-style with lemon and oregano.

Tips for the Best Chicken Souvlaki

• Marinate longer for better flavor absorption.

• Use chicken thighs for juicier texture, but breasts work well too.

• Grill on high heat to get those beautiful sear marks and smoky flavor.

• Don’t overcrowd the skewers, which helps the chicken cook evenly.

• Let the meat rest a few minutes before serving to retain juices.

Frequently Asked Questions About Greek Chicken Souvlaki

1. What is the difference between souvlaki and gyro?
   Souvlaki consists of grilled meat skewers, while gyro meat is typically cooked on a vertical rotisserie and sliced thin.

2. Can I bake souvlaki instead of grilling?
   Yes. You can bake the skewers in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 20 minutes, turning halfway.

3. Can I use pork or beef instead of chicken?
   Absolutely. Traditional Greek souvlaki is often made with pork, but beef, lamb, or even tofu can be used as alternatives.

4. Is Chicken Souvlaki gluten-free?
   Yes, the chicken itself is gluten-free. Just ensure that any sides or marinades (like pita or sauce) are also gluten-free.

5. How long should I marinate the chicken?
   At least 1 hour is recommended, but for best results, marinate overnight in the fridge.

6. What herbs are essential in the marinade?
   Oregano is key to achieving authentic Greek flavor. You can also add thyme, rosemary, or parsley.

7. Can I make souvlaki in advance?
   Yes. You can marinate the chicken a day ahead and even grill the skewers in advance, then reheat before serving.

8. Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
   Yes, you can freeze chicken in its marinade for up to 3 months. Thaw before grilling.

9. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
   Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture.

10. Can I cook this on a stovetop?
    Yes, a grill pan or cast-iron skillet works great on a stovetop.

11. Is souvlaki spicy?
    Traditional souvlaki is not spicy, but you can add chili flakes or paprika to the marinade if you prefer heat.

12. Can I make this recipe low-fat?
    Use lean chicken breast and go light on the olive oil and sauce. It’s naturally a healthy recipe.

13. What makes souvlaki taste “Greek”?
    The key is the combination of olive oil, lemon, garlic, and oregano—flavors that define Greek cuisine.

14. Is souvlaki eaten with a fork or wrapped in pita?
    Both! It can be enjoyed straight from the skewer, plated with sides, or wrapped in pita like a sandwich.

15. What drinks pair well with Chicken Souvlaki?
    Greek white wine, dry rosé, or even a cold lager complement this dish well. For non-alcoholic options, try lemon water or iced tea.

Conclusion

Greek Chicken Souvlaki is more than just a dish—it’s an experience. From the zesty marinade to the smoky grilled chicken, every bite tells a story of Mediterranean tradition and home-cooked comfort. Whether you’re new to Greek cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is simple to master and endlessly rewarding.

Perfect for casual meals or special occasions, Chicken Souvlaki brings people together around the table. Now that you know how to make it and serve it, you’re well on your way to creating a memorable meal your readers—and their guests—will love.