Irresistible Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe to Wow You

Name: Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 2 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Pita bread, for serving; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1 medium cucumber, grated and drained; 2 tbsp fresh dill or mint, chopped; Zest of 1 lemon

Recipe By:

Ava Mack

Posted:

April 12, 2025

Updated:

April 12, 2025

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Imagine biting into a juicy skewer of Greek chicken souvlaki, perfectly seasoned and grilled to perfection, releasing a symphony of Mediterranean aromas that dance around your kitchen. The charred edges, the tender meat, and the zesty marinade create an explosion of flavor that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

This Greek chicken souvlaki recipe isn’t just food; it’s a celebration! Whether you’re firing up the grill for a summer barbecue or simply craving a taste of Greece on a Wednesday night, this dish will transport you straight to the sunny shores of Santorini with every bite. a comforting Greek beef stew.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This amazing Greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing

The last time I made this recipe, my neighbors called over to see if there was a festival happening because the aroma wafted right into their backyard!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is key here; it brightens up the marinade beautifully.
Olive Oil: Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for richness; it enhances flavor and texture.
Dried Oregano: This herb adds that unmistakable Greek flavor; go for high-quality dried oregano if possible. savory cheese and herb muffins.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; always taste as you go to achieve perfection!
Pita Bread: Serve alongside for that authentic Greek experience—perfect for scooping up all those tasty bits. cheesy onion bread perfect for dipping.
Tzatziki Sauce: A refreshing cucumber-yogurt dip completes this dish wonderfully and balances the flavors.

For the Sauce:

Plain Greek Yogurt: Creamy and tangy; opt for full-fat for a richer taste in your tzatziki. creamy scalloped potatoes for a classic side.
Cucumber: Grate and squeeze out excess water to prevent your sauce from getting too runny.
Dill or Mint: Fresh herbs elevate your tzatziki sauce; choose according to your preference.
Lemon Zest: Adds brightness and freshness to balance out the creaminess of the yogurt.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Marinating the Chicken: Start by cutting chicken breasts into uniform cubes to ensure even cooking. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined. Add chicken cubes and toss until they’re thoroughly coated. Cover with plastic wrap and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—longer if you can wait! For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet recipe.

Prepping Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning during cooking. Metal skewers? No soaking needed! Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving some space between pieces so they cook evenly.

Grilling Time: Preheat your grill over medium-high heat until hot—around 400°F (200°C). Place skewers on the grill grates and cook for about 10-12 minutes total, turning occasionally until golden brown with delightful grill marks.

Making Tzatziki Sauce: While chicken is grilling, prepare your tzatziki sauce. In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt with grated cucumber (squeeze out excess moisture), minced garlic, chopped dill or mint, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix until well blended—taste it like I do because you know it’s going to be good!

Serving It Up: Once grilled to perfection (internal temperature should be at least 165°F/74°C), remove skewers from grill and let rest for about 5 minutes. Serve warm with pita bread and homemade tzatziki sauce on the side—your guests will think they’ve traveled straight to Greece!

Enjoying Greek chicken souvlaki is not only about savoring great flavors but also about creating memories amidst friends or family—trust me; it’s unforgettable!

You Must Know

This amazing Greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken for at least an hour, then grill it until golden brown, ensuring juicy perfection with every bite.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the chicken for shrimp or veggies, and add your favorite spices like smoked paprika or dill for extra flair.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave to maintain moisture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For tender chicken, marinate overnight; this boosts flavor significantly
Use skewers soaked in water before grilling to prevent burning
Always let the grilled chicken rest before serving to retain juices

Sharing this dish with friends always brings laughter as they try to pronounce “souvlaki” correctly; it’s become a delightful running joke at our gatherings.

FAQs