Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Dreaming of a trip to the sunny shores of Greece? Chicken Souvlaki is your ticket to Mediterranean flavors right at home. Succulent pieces of chicken, infused with zesty lemon, fragrant garlic, and a generous sprinkle of oregano, are grilled to juicy perfection—each bite capturing the fresh, lively spirit of classic Greek street food. Trust me, this recipe is pure weeknight magic, easy enough for beginners and delightful enough for anyone who appreciates a vibrant, wholesome meal!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

It honestly doesn’t get simpler or more rewarding than these fresh, fragrant ingredients. They all play a starring role, from the bold hit of garlic to the sunny acidity of lemon—every element brings character to this irresistible Chicken Souvlaki.

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs are perfect for tender, juicy skewers—just cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
• Olive Oil: A quality extra virgin olive oil adds both richness and helps carry all those Greek flavors deep into the chicken.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice acts as a lively marinade base, giving your Chicken Souvlaki its signature brightness.
• Garlic: Minced garlic brings a bold, aromatic depth—don’t be shy, it’s essential to true Mediterranean magic.
• Red Wine Vinegar: Just a splash adds an irresistible tang and helps tenderize the meat for perfect grilled bites.
• Dried Oregano: This classic herb sings with savory, woodsy notes, anchoring the dish in unmistakable Greek tradition.
• Salt: Proper seasoning allows all those vibrant flavors to shine—don’t forget this step!
• Black Pepper: Adds a touch of gentle spice and a subtle earthiness, balancing all the zest and herbs.
• Skewers: Go for metal for no-fuss grilling, or soak wooden ones to keep them from scorching over the heat.

How to Make Chicken Souvlaki

Step 1: Make the Marinade

Start by whisking together your olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. This marinade smells absolutely intoxicating—it should be zesty, herby, and a little punchy! The combo of acids and herbs is what sets Chicken Souvlaki apart from ordinary grilled chicken.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add your cubed chicken to the marinade, making sure every piece is lovely and coated. Cover the bowl and let the chicken chill in the fridge for at least an hour—though if you have the time, up to 4 hours (or even overnight) means even more flavor soaks in. The marinade tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with incredible taste.

Step 3: Prepare the Skewers

If you’re using wooden skewers for Chicken Souvlaki, soak them in water for about 30 minutes first so they don’t scorch on the grill. Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto your skewers, packing them snugly but not squishing too tight—you want all sides to get some char!

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

Preheat your grill, grill pan, or broiler to medium-high. Lay your chicken skewers on and let them cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning every few minutes until juicy, golden brown, and lightly charred in spots. The aroma at this point is simply irresistible. No grill? Pop those skewers under the broiler or use a hot skillet for equally tasty results.

Step 5: Serve While Hot

Transfer your fresh-off-the-grill Chicken Souvlaki to a plate and serve immediately. Pair it with warm pita, dollops of creamy tzatziki, and a burst of fresh toppings like tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, or olives. A final squeeze of lemon over the top takes things straight over the edge.

How to Serve Chicken Souvlaki

Garnishes

To bring out the best in your Chicken Souvlaki, sprinkle on a handful of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill, a scatter of sliced red onion, and a quick squeeze of lemon. A generous dollop of tzatziki is non-negotiable for that authentic vibe!

Side Dishes

Chicken Souvlaki absolutely shines alongside warm, fluffy pita and fresh Greek salad. Try serving with roasted potatoes, rice pilaf, or vibrant pickled veggies for a seriously satisfying meal that ticks all the boxes.

Creative Ways to Present

Thread some cherry tomatoes, colorful bell peppers, or zucchini between your chicken cubes for a rainbow of color and flavor. Or, skip the skewers and pile the marinated chicken onto a big salad with olives and feta for a simple, modern twist! Chicken Souvlaki also makes a fantastic wrap for lunchboxes or picnics.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Chicken Souvlaki can be cooled to room temperature, then stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors mellow and mingle—even delicious cold in a salad wrap the next day!

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze cooked Chicken Souvlaki skewers (off the skewers, for easiest use) in a zip-top bag or airtight container for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, simply place the chicken pieces on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 10 minutes. Or reheat quickly in a skillet on the stovetop—just until warmed to avoid drying out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add even juicier, more flavorful results to your Chicken Souvlaki. They’re a bit richer than breasts, and they hold up well to marinating and grilling.

Is it necessary to marinate for the full four hours?

While a longer marinade draws out maximum taste and tenderness, even one hour delivers delicious flavor. If you’re in a serious time crunch, you can get away with a shorter marinating time—but overnight is truly worth it for special occasions!

Can I make Chicken Souvlaki without a grill?

Absolutely! Use a grill pan, broiler, or even a cast iron skillet on the stovetop. The chicken will turn golden and juicy in any of these options—just be sure to rotate the pieces for even cooking and to get those lovely caramelized edges.

What’s the best way to prevent dry chicken?

The secret to juicy Chicken Souvlaki is using enough oil and acid in the marinade, not overcooking, and turning the skewers often. Pull them off the heat as soon as they’re just cooked through for perfect results every time!

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes! This Chicken Souvlaki recipe scales up beautifully. Just multiply all ingredients as needed and grill in batches—watch your guests light up when you serve this irresistible feast.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the fresh, zesty joy of homemade Chicken Souvlaki—especially when you realize how easy and versatile it is. Give this recipe a try and I promise you’ll be hooked, whether it’s an easy weeknight meal or the shining star of your next backyard gathering. Grab those skewers and get grilling, your taste buds are about to take a sunny Mediterranean vacation!

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