chicken greek souvlaki recipe
The Best chicken greek souvlaki recipe
Chicken souvlaki is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug for my family—simple enough to make every day but always special enough to serve at gatherings. There’s something about the tender, marinated chicken skewers that makes it feel like a little taste of Greece right in our kitchen, even if we’re not in Athens. My kids love it because it’s fun to eat off the skewers, and it’s always a hit at dinner, especially when we serve it with warm pita and a simple Greek salad. It’s that kind of dish that doesn’t take over the meal—it just enhances it, making everything feel lighter and fresher.
I love this recipe because it’s so versatile. You can make it ahead of time and reheat it, so it’s perfect for meal prep, or you can grill it fresh for a weekend barbecue. It’s also one of those dishes that feels indulgent without being overly heavy, which is great for a family that enjoys healthy eating. The chicken stays juicy and flavorful, and the herbs and spices in the marinade make it taste like something you’d find in a restaurant, but way more manageable at home. Plus, it’s a great way to get kids excited about cooking—let them help with the skewering, and they’ll be more likely to try new things. It’s that kind of recipe that makes cooking feel less like a chore and more like a little joy.
Greek Souvlaki Chicken Recipe
A flavorful Greek-inspired dish featuring marinated grilled chicken skewers served with warm pita, fresh vegetables, and a tangy tzatziki sauce. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 lemon (juiced)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- ½ cucumber, grated and drained
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 pita breads
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 red onion, sliced
- Fresh parsley, chopped
👨🍳Directions
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1 Prep the chicken: Cut chicken thighs into 1.5-inch chunks. Mix olive oil, garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and honey in a bowl. Coat the chicken evenly with the marinade and let it marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best flavor).
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2 Prepare the tzatziki: In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (drained), minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
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3 Thread the chicken onto skewers, alternating with chunks of bell pepper and onion if desired. Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
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4 Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Remove skewers and let them rest for 2-3 minutes.
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5 Warm the pita breads in a lightly heated oven (300°F/150°C) for 5-7 minutes until soft.
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6 Assemble the souvlaki: Place a pita on each plate, top with grilled chicken skewers, sliced vegetables, and a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley.
🔧Equipment
- Skewers (metal or wooden)
- Mixing bowls
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Grill or grill pan
- Oven (for warming pita)
- Measuring cups and spoons
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Greek Souvlaki Chicken Recipe Works
This chicken souvlaki recipe is always a crowd-pleaser because it’s simple to prepare yet feels special for any occasion—whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a busy holiday gathering. The tender, marinated chicken stays juicy even when grilled quickly, and the bright, tangy flavors make it easy to serve alongside fresh pita and a simple salad. It’s perfect for families because it lets everyone customize their own bites, and the leftovers keep well for a quick meal later. No fuss, just great taste that never disappoints.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Greek Souvlaki Chicken
1. What are the key ingredients required for authentic Greek souvlaki chicken recipe?
For the chicken, you’ll need boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts cut into 1.5-inch cubes. Essential marinade ingredients include olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, black pepper, and a touch of honey or sugar. For serving, include pita bread, tzatziki sauce, grilled tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and fresh parsley.
2. How long should the chicken be marinated before grilling?
Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but ideally overnight in the refrigerator for best flavor. The longer it marinates, the more tender and flavorful the meat becomes.
3. Can I use a grill pan instead of a traditional outdoor grill for souvlaki?
Yes, a grill pan works perfectly—just ensure it’s hot enough to sear the chicken quickly. If using a regular grill, preheat it to medium-high heat and avoid overcrowding to prevent steaming instead of grilling.
4. What’s the best way to cook the chicken to avoid drying it out?
Grill the chicken over medium-high heat for about 4–5 minutes per side, basting with extra marinade or olive oil halfway through. Avoid moving it too much, and let it rest for 2–3 minutes before serving to retain juices.
5. How do I make the tzatziki sauce for serving souvlaki?
Mix 1 cup Greek yogurt with grated cucumber (salted and drained), minced garlic, chopped fresh dill, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and a pinch of sugar. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.
