Chicken Souvlaki

A classic Greek street food favorite, Chicken Souvlaki features tender, marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection. Packed with fresh Mediterranean flavors, this easy-to-make dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or backyard gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Souvlaki recipe is quick, healthy, and bursting with zesty herbs and spices. It’s versatile enough to serve in pita wraps, over rice, or alongside a crisp salad. Plus, the simple marinade delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Dried oregano
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Wooden or metal skewers

Directions

this recipe

1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized cubes.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to overnight for maximum flavor).
4. Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes if using.
5. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers.
6. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
7. Grill the chicken skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through and lightly charred.
8. Serve with warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and fresh vegetables if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people and takes about 15 minutes to prep, with an additional 1 hour of marinating time and 10-12 minutes to grill.

Variations

• Swap chicken for pork or lamb for a different twist.
• Add chopped bell peppers and onions to the skewers.
• Use Greek yogurt in the marinade for extra tenderness.
• Serve over a bed of rice with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh herbs.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover Chicken Souvlaki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the skewers in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat them on a stovetop grill pan for a few minutes on each side.

FAQs

How do I keep Chicken Souvlaki juicy?

Marinate the chicken for at least an hour and don’t overcook it on the grill.

Can I bake Chicken Souvlaki instead of grilling?

Yes, bake the skewers in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning once.

What is traditionally served with Chicken Souvlaki?

It’s often served with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, Greek salad, and lemon wedges.

Can I make Chicken Souvlaki ahead of time?

Yes, marinate the chicken up to a day in advance and grill when ready to serve.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely, thighs are juicy and work perfectly for souvlaki.

How do I prevent wooden skewers from burning?

Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.

Is Chicken Souvlaki healthy?

Yes, it’s a lean protein option with simple, fresh ingredients.

Can I freeze Chicken Souvlaki?

Freeze the marinated, uncooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before grilling.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Use the oven or a grill pan to keep the chicken moist and flavorful.

Can I cook Chicken Souvlaki on a stovetop?

Yes, use a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat, turning until cooked through.

Conclusion

Chicken Souvlaki is a must-try if you love fresh, vibrant flavors and easy grilling recipes. With a simple marinade and quick cooking time, it’s perfect for weeknights or entertaining. Serve it your favorite way and bring a taste of Greece to your table!

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