Greek Chicken Souvlaki – Perfectly Marinated and Grilled on Skewers

Bring the taste of Greece to your home with this Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe! Marinated in a blend of olive oil, lemon, garlic, and herbs, these tender, juicy chicken skewers are bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer BBQ, this recipe pairs wonderfully with warm pita and a dollop of tzatziki for an authentic Greek experience.

Key Information

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes (plus 30 minutes to marinate)
• Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Number of Servings: 4
• Serving Size: 2 skewers per person

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 300
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fat: 18g
• Dietary Note: Gluten-free (ensure sides like pita are gluten-free if needed)

Ingredients List

• Chicken:

  • 500g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces

• For the Marinade:

  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (approx. 1 lemon)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • Optional: 1 tsp ground paprika (for extra color and flavor)

• For Serving:

  • Pita bread or warm flatbread
  • Tzatziki sauce (Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and herbs)
  • Fresh cucumber, tomato, and red onion slices
  • Lemon wedges for garnish
  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Detailed Method of Preparation

1. Prepare the Marinade
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Whisk until well combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken
   Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more intense flavor.
3. Thread the Chicken on Skewers
   If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 15 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece to allow even cooking.
4. Grill the Souvlaki
   Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the chicken skewers on the grill and cook for 4-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 75°C / 165°F). Turn the skewers occasionally to cook evenly.
5. Serve
   Transfer the grilled chicken souvlaki to a serving plate. Serve with warm pita or flatbread, a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce, and fresh cucumber, tomato, and red onion slices. Garnish with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Tips for Culinary Success

• Use Fresh Herbs if Possible: Fresh oregano and thyme add an even more authentic Greek flavor, though dried herbs are convenient and still delicious.
• Don’t Skip the Marinating Time: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with the vibrant flavors of the marinade.
• Adjust the Grill Heat Carefully: For a slightly charred exterior and juicy inside, maintain a medium-high grill temperature. Too high a heat can burn the marinade before the chicken is fully cooked.
• Make Your Own Tzatziki: For the most authentic flavor, make homemade tzatziki by combining Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, and fresh dill or mint.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs tend to be juicier and slightly more flavorful than breasts. Just adjust the cooking time as needed since thighs may take a bit longer.

2. What can I serve with Greek Chicken Souvlaki?
Greek Chicken Souvlaki pairs well with pita bread, Greek salad, roasted potatoes, or couscous. For a complete Greek meal, serve it with a side of tzatziki sauce and a squeeze of fresh lemon.

3. Can I cook souvlaki in the oven instead of on the grill?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Arrange the skewers on a baking sheet lined with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly golden.

4. How long can I marinate the chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours. If you marinate it too long (especially overnight), the lemon juice may begin to break down the chicken, which can make it mushy.

This Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe is perfect for anyone who loves fresh, bold flavors. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or using a grill pan indoors, these juicy, marinated chicken skewers are sure to transport your taste buds straight to Greece. Try them for your next dinner and enjoy a burst of Mediterranean flavor in every bite!