Greek Chicken Souvlaki

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Juicy, chargrilled, and infused with Mediterranean flavors, Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a mouthwatering dish that brings the spirit of the Greek islands right to your table. Whether served with warm pita, fresh tzatziki, or crisp vegetables, this dish is a celebration of simplicity and bold taste. The marinade—rich with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano—transforms tender chicken into bites of pure savory perfection.

Perfect for summer grilling or indoor stovetop cooking, Chicken Souvlaki is fast, flavorful, and versatile. It works equally well as a main course for a family dinner or as a party appetizer on skewers. The smoky char, herbaceous punch, and satisfying protein make this a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

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Why You’ll Love This Greek Chicken Souvlaki

• Bursting with Flavor: The marinade is packed with garlic, lemon, and herbs, giving the chicken a tangy, herby depth.
• Quick & Easy: Minimal prep and short cooking time make this ideal for busy nights.
• Healthy & Balanced: High in protein and low in carbs, it pairs well with veggies or grains.
• Great for Grilling: Souvlaki shines on the BBQ but is just as delicious cooked on a stovetop or in the oven.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make ahead and enjoy throughout the week in wraps, salads, or bowls.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment (and Why Each Matters)

To create the most flavorful and perfectly grilled Greek Chicken Souvlaki, having the right tools makes all the difference:

• Mixing Bowls – For marinating the chicken evenly. A large glass or stainless-steel bowl ensures the marinade coats every piece.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife – Essential for cutting the chicken into uniform cubes, which helps with even cooking.
• Cutting Board – Choose a sturdy, non-slip board, preferably plastic or bamboo, to prep your meat and vegetables safely.
• Metal or Soaked Wooden Skewers – Skewers hold the meat together and make flipping on the grill effortless. If using wooden ones, soak them for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
• Grill or Grill Pan – For that authentic char and smoky flavor. An outdoor gas/charcoal grill gives the best results, but a cast iron grill pan works great indoors.
• Tongs – Needed for safely flipping the skewers without piercing the meat and losing juices.
• Meat Thermometer (optional but recommended) – Ensures the chicken is fully cooked without over-drying it. You’re aiming for 165°F (75°C) internally.

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Preparation Tips

• Marinate Long Enough: Let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 1 hour, but overnight is ideal to infuse maximum flavor.
• Uniform Cuts: Keep the chicken pieces roughly the same size to ensure even grilling.
• Pat Dry Before Grilling: Lightly patting the marinated chicken dry with paper towels helps achieve a better sear.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: Leave a bit of space between pieces so each gets exposed to the heat evenly.
• Preheat Your Grill or Pan: A hot cooking surface is key for getting those beautiful grill marks and locking in moisture.
• Oil the Grill: Lightly oil the grates or your grill pan to prevent sticking.

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Ingredients for This Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Here’s everything you’ll need to prepare this flavorful Mediterranean dish:

For the Chicken and Marinade:

• 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch chunks
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil – forms the base of the marinade and keeps the chicken juicy
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice – adds tang and tenderizes the meat
• 3 garlic cloves, minced – delivers a robust, aromatic depth
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar – enhances the acidity and brings brightness
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano – a signature Greek herb for that classic flavor
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – adds complexity and warmth
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika – for subtle color and smokiness
• Salt and black pepper to taste – to season and balance all flavors

Optional Garnish and Serving Add-ons:

• Fresh chopped parsley – adds a pop of color and freshness after grilling
• Lemon wedges – for squeezing over before serving
• Tzatziki sauce – creamy and cooling, ideal for dipping or drizzling
• Sliced red onions, tomatoes, and lettuce – for a fresh side or to stuff into pita wraps

This combination of simple, whole ingredients creates a deliciously aromatic and perfectly balanced dish that’s both healthy and satisfying.

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Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until fully emulsified and fragrant.

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Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the cubed chicken into the bowl with the marinade. Toss well to ensure each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight for deeper flavor.

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Step 3: Skewer the Chicken

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken chunks onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.

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Step 4: Preheat the Grill or Pan

Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush lightly with oil to prevent sticking.

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Step 5: Grill the Chicken Souvlaki

Place the skewers on the hot grill. Cook for about 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and nicely charred. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

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Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove the skewers from the heat and let them rest for 3–5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges, tzatziki, and your choice of sides.

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Notes

• Chicken Choice: Chicken thighs provide more juiciness and flavor, but chicken breasts offer a leaner option and still taste amazing with proper marination.
• Marinade Time: The longer, the better. Overnight marinating is ideal, but even 1–2 hours will make a big difference.
• Cooking Indoors: No grill? Use a grill pan or a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for an excellent char.
• Serving Style: Greek Chicken Souvlaki can be served as skewers, in pita wraps, or over a rice bowl with veggies and tzatziki.
• Make It a Meal: Add a side of roasted potatoes or a Greek salad to round out the dish beautifully.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the Skewer Soak: If using wooden skewers and you skip soaking, they’ll burn quickly and even break apart.
• Overcrowding the Grill: Give each skewer enough space to allow even cooking and avoid steaming instead of grilling.
• Too Much Marinade While Grilling: Excess marinade can cause flare-ups on the grill. Shake off the excess before placing the chicken on heat.
• Overcooking: Dry, tough chicken happens when it’s overcooked. Use a thermometer to hit that perfect 165°F (75°C).
• Underseasoning: Don’t be shy with salt—flavor balance is key, and it enhances the lemon and garlic notes beautifully.
• Not Preheating the Grill: You’ll miss that signature char and risk the meat sticking if your grill isn’t hot enough.
• Uneven Cuts: Different sizes cook at different speeds. Uniform chunks ensure all your pieces are done at the same time.
• Forgetting to Rest the Chicken: A few minutes of resting helps redistribute juices for extra succulent bites.

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What to Serve With Greek Chicken Souvlaki?

Greek Chicken Souvlaki is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate it to a complete, well-rounded Mediterranean feast.

Here are 8 Recommendations:

1. Tzatziki Sauce

Creamy, tangy, and cooling—this cucumber yogurt dip is the classic companion to souvlaki. Serve it on the side or drizzle over the skewers.

2. Warm Pita Bread

Soft and fluffy, warm pita is perfect for wrapping your souvlaki or mopping up extra sauce and juices.

3. Greek Salad

Crisp cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta tossed with olive oil and oregano make a refreshing and crunchy side.

4. Lemon Herb Rice

Fluffy rice seasoned with lemon zest, garlic, and parsley pairs perfectly and soaks up all the flavorful juices from the chicken.

5. Grilled Vegetables

Charred bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and cherry tomatoes add vibrant color and smoky depth that complement the meat beautifully.

6. Oven-Roasted Potatoes

Greek-style roasted potatoes with lemon, garlic, and oregano are hearty and comforting with every bite.

7. Hummus or Baba Ganoush

These creamy dips made from chickpeas or roasted eggplant offer texture variety and Mediterranean richness.

8. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmades)

These tangy, herb-stuffed rolls are a traditional Greek appetizer and balance the savory chicken with their briny, rice-filled bite.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration:
Once cooled, store leftover Greek Chicken Souvlaki in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days. Be sure to separate it from sauces or sides like tzatziki to preserve texture.

Freezing:
You can freeze the cooked chicken (off the skewers) for up to 2 months. Place it in freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible. Label with the date to keep track.

Reheating:
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until warmed through. Microwaving works too, but use a damp paper towel to prevent the meat from drying out. Avoid overcooking during reheating.

Meal Prep Tip:
If planning ahead, marinate the raw chicken and freeze it uncooked. Thaw overnight in the fridge and grill fresh for the best flavor and texture.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – approx. based on 1 skewer)

• Calories: 210
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0.5g
• Sodium: 180mg

Note: Nutrition may vary slightly based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Chicken thighs are more forgiving during grilling and tend to stay juicier, making them a favorite for many when making souvlaki.

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2. Do I have to use skewers?

Not necessarily. While skewers are traditional and ideal for grilling, you can also cook the marinated chicken pieces directly in a pan or bake them in the oven.

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3. How long should I marinate the chicken?

At minimum, marinate for 1 hour. For the best flavor, marinate overnight. The acid in the marinade helps tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.

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4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance or freeze the marinated raw chicken for grilling later. Cooked skewers also store well and are great for meal prep.

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5. What’s the best way to cook souvlaki indoors?

Use a cast iron grill pan or heavy-bottomed skillet. Heat it well before cooking and lightly oil to prevent sticking. You’ll still get that satisfying sear.

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6. Can I use this marinade for other meats?

Definitely. This marinade works well with pork, lamb, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

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7. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the chicken and marinade are naturally gluten-free. Just be cautious with sides—ensure your pita, sauces, or dips are certified gluten-free if needed.

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8. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade for some heat. You can also serve it with a spicy yogurt dip or harissa.

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Conclusion

Greek Chicken Souvlaki is the kind of dish that combines simplicity, bold flavor, and a touch of sunshine in every bite. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking in your kitchen, it brings a Mediterranean vibe to your table effortlessly. Its juicy texture, zesty marinade, and versatility in serving make it a go-to recipe for everything from weeknight dinners to weekend feasts.

Make it once, and you’ll see why this dish has been a favorite in Greek kitchens for generations—and soon, in yours too.

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