Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Juicy, smoky, and irresistibly fragrant, Chicken Souvlaki is a Greek classic that’s easy to fall in love with at first bite. Each skewer is loaded with tender marinated chicken, grilled to delightful perfection and bursting with bold Mediterranean flavors. Whether you’re planning a laid-back summer cookout or looking for a quick weeknight dinner that feels special, Chicken Souvlaki is the unbeatable answer. It’s a recipe that truly brings people together – offering a bright, zesty taste of Greece right from your home grill!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about simplicity: Chicken Souvlaki relies on just a handful of kitchen staples, but together they create magic. Every ingredient is thoughtful, purposeful, and contributes to the gorgeous flavor, color, and aroma that make this dish unforgettable.

• Chicken (2 lbs, boneless skinless breasts or thighs): The star of the show, cut into tender 1-inch cubes for maximum juiciness and flavor absorption.
• Olive oil (3 tbsp): Adds luxurious richness while helping the marinade cling to each piece of chicken.
• Fresh lemon juice (3 tbsp): Brightens everything up with a tangy kick and helps tenderize the meat.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Lends pungency and deep, earthy flavor that infuses right into the chicken.
• Red wine vinegar (1 tbsp): Layers in authentic Mediterranean acidity for even more depth.
• Dried oregano (2 tsp): Brings iconic Greek herbiness and a whiff of the sunny Mediterranean hillsides.
• Dried thyme (1 tsp): Adds subtle lemony undertones, balancing out the robust oregano.
• Salt (1 tsp): Essential for drawing out flavors and making every bite pop.
• Black pepper (1/2 tsp): Gives a gentle earthy heat to round out the marinade.
• Wooden skewers (soaked in water): Prevent burning on the grill and make serving ultra-fun and easy. Don’t skip the soaking!

How to Make Chicken Souvlaki

Step 1: Whisk Together the Marinade

Grab a large bowl and pour in the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Whisk thoroughly until everything is beautifully combined. This luscious marinade is where all that classic Chicken Souvlaki flavor begins!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add your chicken cubes to the bowl, tossing them gently until every little piece is coated in that zesty marinade. Cover the bowl and transfer to the refrigerator. For best results, let the chicken marinate for at least one hour, but if you really want to knock it out of the park, let the flavors mingle overnight.

Step 3: Prepare the Skewers

While your chicken is marinating, soak your wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes. This simple trick keeps them from burning on the grill and makes them sturdier for threading all those savory bites.

Step 4: Thread the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and start threading the pieces onto your soaked skewers, packing them snugly but not too tightly. This gives each skewer the perfect balance of tender char and juicy interior.

Step 5: Grill to Perfection

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the skewers directly on the grill and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally. You’re looking for gorgeous grill marks and that unmistakable grilled aroma. The chicken should be cooked through but gloriously juicy inside.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Once the Chicken Souvlaki is off the grill, serve it immediately while the edges are golden and the centers are succulent. For an authentic touch, pile them onto a platter with pita bread, creamy tzatziki, and your favorite crisp veggies.

How to Serve Chicken Souvlaki

Garnishes

A light sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or oregano is all you need to add a pop of color and freshness to your Chicken Souvlaki. A quick squeeze of lemon over the top just before serving wakes up the flavors beautifully, while a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil gives a touch of Mediterranean indulgence.

Side Dishes

Chicken Souvlaki pairs like a dream with warm, fluffy pita, a generous bowl of tzatziki, and a vibrant Greek salad. Sliced cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese on the side make for a classic spread. You can also serve it alongside rice pilaf or roasted potatoes for a hearty meal.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress your guests, try serving Chicken Souvlaki “deconstructed” as a board: arrange the skewers with small bowls of dips, grilled veggies, and pita triangles for a vibrant DIY platter. Or stuff the hot chicken into pita pockets with crisp salad and tzatziki for a handheld feast. For a lighter take, serve the skewers over a bed of greens for a refreshing souvlaki salad.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Souvlaki keeps beautifully in the fridge. Store the cooked chicken (removed from the skewers for ease) in an airtight container, and it will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop, making the leftovers even more delicious.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked Chicken Souvlaki for up to 2 months. Allow the skewers to cool to room temperature, then transfer the chicken into a freezer-safe bag or container. For best results, store the chicken off the skewers. To freeze raw marinated chicken, place it in the marinade in a zip-top bag and freeze for up to 2 months—just thaw and skewer before grilling.

Reheating

To reheat Chicken Souvlaki, gently warm it on a skillet or in a preheated oven at 350°F until hot throughout, about 8-10 minutes. If you’re short on time, the microwave will work too—just cover loosely and heat in short bursts to preserve juiciness.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for Chicken Souvlaki?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are wonderfully juicy and flavorful. Many traditional Chicken Souvlaki recipes actually prefer thighs for their tenderness, but both breasts and thighs work perfectly, so use what you love.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinating for at least 1 hour infuses the chicken with great flavor, but letting it go overnight will make your Chicken Souvlaki extra special. The acids and herbs will do magical things to the texture and depth!

Can I cook Chicken Souvlaki indoors?

Yes, you can. A grill pan or broiler is your friend for indoor cooking. Just follow the same cooking times—about 8 to 10 minutes, turning once for a gorgeous sear and golden finish.

Is Chicken Souvlaki gluten-free?

The chicken and marinade are naturally gluten-free, so just serve with gluten-free sides or wraps. Keep an eye on pre-made pitas or sauces if you or your guests have dietary restrictions.

How can I tell when the chicken is done?

You’ll know your Chicken Souvlaki is ready when it’s firm, opaque throughout, and juices run clear. If you like extra certainty, a meat thermometer should read 165°F at the thickest part of the chicken.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a meal that delivers big flavors in very little time, Chicken Souvlaki is a true game-changer. Each bite is a celebration of bright herbs, citrus, and pure comfort. Try it out—you might just find it becomes your new weeknight (or weekend) grilling tradition!

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