Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

If you’re looking for a meal that’s bold, healthy, and satisfying, Greek chicken souvlaki delivers on every front. With juicy, marinated chicken grilled to perfection and paired with crisp vegetables, this dish is a staple in traditional Greek cuisine. Its vibrant flavor, simple preparation, and versatility make it an ideal choice for family dinners, summer barbecues, or meal prep.

Whether you’re new to Mediterranean cooking or already love Greek food, this recipe offers an easy and authentic way to enjoy one of the country’s most iconic dishes.

Why You’ll Love This Greek Chicken Souvlaki

• Authentic flavor: Made with a traditional marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs.
• Quick to make: Minimal prep time and just 15 minutes of cooking.
• Healthy option: High in protein, low in carbs, and gluten free.
• Perfect for grilling season: Brings restaurant-quality Greek food to your backyard.

This recipe is also ideal for a variety of serving styles—from pita wraps and salads to rice bowls and platter-style meals.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Prep Overview

Preparation is straightforward, but a few simple steps will ensure your chicken souvlaki comes out juicy and flavorful every time.

1. Cut chicken into even chunks to ensure uniform cooking.
2. Marinate for at least 1 hour—but overnight will yield the best flavor.
3. Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls: For marinating and mixing ingredients.
• Sharp knife: To cube the chicken and cut vegetables evenly.
• Wooden or metal skewers: Wooden skewers should be soaked.
• Outdoor grill or grill pan: Charcoal or gas grills work well.
• Tongs: For safely turning the skewers.
• Meat thermometer: Optional but helpful for checking doneness.

Why Each Tool Matters

• Skewers keep ingredients together and allow for even heat distribution.
• Tongs let you flip the chicken without piercing the meat, preserving juices.
• Grill pans offer an indoor alternative with similar charred flavor.

Tips to Maximize Flavor

• Crush dried herbs like oregano and thyme to release their oils.
• Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for a bright, authentic taste.
• Don’t skip the marination step—it’s crucial for juicy, flavorful chicken.
• Alternate chicken with vegetables on the skewers for variety and color.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this authentic Greek chicken souvlaki recipe:

For the Marinade

• ¼ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Skewers

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
• 1 red onion, cut into chunks
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
• Wooden skewers, soaked for 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Make the marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the chicken: Add chicken chunks to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Assemble the skewers: Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, alternating with red onion and bell peppers.
5. Grill the skewers for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally. Chicken should be fully cooked and slightly charred on the outside.
6. Serve immediately with warm pita and tzatziki sauce.

Optional Variations

• Oven-baked version: Cook skewers at 425°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Air fryer: Cook at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, turning once.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.

Serving Suggestions for Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Once you’ve grilled your authentic Greek chicken souvlaki, it’s time to bring it to the table with style. This versatile dish pairs beautifully with a variety of Mediterranean sides and can be served in multiple ways, depending on the occasion.

Classic Serving Options

• Pita Wraps
  Tuck grilled souvlaki into warm pita bread with tzatziki, sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion. This is the traditional street food-style serving method, perfect for casual dinners or quick lunches.
• Souvlaki Platter
  Serve the skewers on a large platter alongside rice pilaf, a fresh Greek salad, and grilled vegetables. This is an excellent presentation for entertaining or family-style meals.
• Mediterranean Bowls
  Build a bowl with basmati rice, hummus, cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, feta cheese, and souvlaki. Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil for a healthy and filling option.
• Low-Carb Option
  Skip the pita and serve the grilled chicken with leafy greens, grilled veggies, and a light yogurt dressing. It’s flavorful, satisfying, and fits well into a low-carb lifestyle.

These options highlight the flexibility of Greek chicken souvlaki and make it easy to adapt to different dietary needs and preferences.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a simple recipe like this, there are a few pitfalls that can affect the final result. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your souvlaki is always juicy, flavorful, and cooked perfectly.

Overcooking the Chicken

Grilling for too long dries out the chicken. The internal temperature should reach 165°F, but not exceed it. Use a meat thermometer if needed and remove from heat as soon as it’s done.

Uneven Cutting

Cutting the chicken or vegetables into irregular sizes leads to uneven cooking. Aim for uniform chunks—about 1½ inches thick—to ensure everything grills evenly.

Insufficient Marinating

The marinade isn’t just for flavor—it tenderizes the meat. Skipping this step or rushing it can leave the chicken bland and tough. A minimum of 1 hour is recommended, but marinating overnight delivers the best flavor and texture.

Forgetting to Soak Wooden Skewers

Wooden skewers can burn or even catch fire on the grill if not soaked in water beforehand. Soak them for at least 30 minutes to prevent scorching.

Not Preheating the Grill

Putting chicken on a cold or low-temperature grill results in sticking and uneven browning. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates to avoid sticking.

Overloading the Skewers

Stuffing too much on each skewer limits heat circulation. Leave small gaps between each piece to ensure thorough and even cooking.

How to Perfect the Recipe Every Time

Consistency is key when making Greek chicken souvlaki. Follow these best practices to perfect the dish, no matter how often you make it.

• Use fresh lemon juice for a brighter, more authentic flavor than bottled juice.
• Massage the marinade into the chicken with your hands to coat each piece evenly.
• Grill over direct heat to get a light char on the outside, then move to indirect heat to finish cooking without drying out the meat.
• Rest the chicken for 5 minutes after grilling to let the juices redistribute.

Experimenting with herbs like fresh dill, rosemary, or mint can also add a personal touch to the traditional flavor profile.

Side Dish Recommendations

Pairing your chicken souvlaki with the right sides can turn a simple skewer into a complete Mediterranean feast. Here are eight complementary side dishes:

1. Tzatziki Sauce

Cool, creamy, and garlicky, this yogurt-based dip is a must-have. Use it as a dip or drizzle over your skewers.

2. Greek Salad

Crisp cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, red onion, feta, and olives tossed in olive oil and oregano. It’s light and refreshing.

3. Lemon Roasted Potatoes

These roasted potatoes are packed with flavor, thanks to lemon juice, garlic, and oregano.

4. Orzo Pasta Salad

Toss cooked orzo with cherry tomatoes, parsley, feta, and olives for a quick side that complements grilled chicken.

5. Hummus and Pita Chips

A smooth, savory spread that adds creaminess and depth to your plate.

6. Roasted Vegetables

Bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and onions roasted with olive oil and herbs make a colorful and healthy side.

7. Spanakopita

This flaky spinach and feta pie is a great option if you want to add a warm, savory pastry to the meal.

8. Couscous with Herbs

Light and fluffy couscous tossed with lemon zest, parsley, and olive oil enhances the freshness of the souvlaki.

Pro Recipe Tips for Flavor and Texture

Getting the most out of your Greek chicken souvlaki comes down to attention to detail. These expert-level tips will help you create the most flavorful, juicy skewers every time.

Use Fresh Ingredients

• Fresh garlic and lemon juice provide brighter, bolder flavor than pre-minced or bottled alternatives.
• Fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, or dill can be substituted for dried versions if you want a softer herb flavor.

Maximize the Marinade

• Add lemon zest to the marinade for even more citrus aroma.
• Gently pierce the chicken pieces with a fork before marinating to help flavors penetrate deeper.
• A minimum marination time of one hour is required, but overnight is ideal.

Double Skewer Technique

To prevent chicken from spinning on the skewer, use two parallel skewers. This makes flipping easier and ensures more even cooking.

Grill Management

• Preheat your grill to medium-high and lightly oil the grates.
• Create two heat zones: one for direct grilling and one cooler side for finishing the cook without burning.
• Keep a spray bottle of water nearby to control flare-ups from dripping marinade.

Storage Instructions

Greek chicken souvlaki stores well, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

In the Refrigerator

• Store cooked chicken souvlaki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Keep vegetables and sauce separate for best texture when reheating.

In the Freezer

• Let grilled skewers cool completely before freezing.
• Remove from skewers and place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Store for up to 3 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Freezing Tip

Freeze in individual portions to make weekday lunches or dinners quick and convenient.

Reheating Instructions

Reheating grilled chicken without drying it out requires a gentle approach.

In the Oven

• Preheat oven to 350°F.
• Place chicken in a baking dish with a splash of water or broth.
• Cover with foil and heat for 10–15 minutes until warmed through.

On the Stovetop

• Heat a skillet over medium heat with a small amount of olive oil.
• Add chicken and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until heated through.

In the Microwave

• Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate with a damp paper towel on top.
• Heat in 30-second intervals to prevent overcooking.

Avoid reheating vegetables with the chicken, as they can become mushy or overcooked. Reheat them separately if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between souvlaki and gyro?

While both are popular Greek street foods, souvlaki refers to grilled meat on skewers, often served straight from the stick or wrapped in pita. Gyro, on the other hand, is typically made from meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie, then shaved and served in wraps.

Can I make souvlaki without a grill?

Yes. You can cook souvlaki on a stovetop grill pan, in the oven, or even in an air fryer. The flavor will differ slightly without the smoky char, but it will still be delicious.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

A minimum of 1 hour is required, but for maximum flavor, marinate for up to 12 hours in the refrigerator.

Is chicken souvlaki healthy?

Yes. It’s a lean source of protein and is low in carbs. When paired with fresh sides like Greek salad or grilled vegetables, it’s part of a balanced, nutrient-rich meal.

What cut of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work well. Thighs tend to be juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked, while breasts provide a leaner option.

Can I meal prep this recipe?

Absolutely. You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before grilling. Cooked souvlaki also stores well for weekday meals.

How do I keep wooden skewers from burning?

Soak the skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. You can also wrap the ends of the skewers in foil for added protection on a hot grill.

Conclusion

Authentic Greek chicken souvlaki brings together bold Mediterranean flavors, lean protein, and simple cooking techniques. It’s a recipe that’s easy enough for beginners but impressive enough for entertaining. With proper marinating, careful grilling, and thoughtful side dish pairings, you can bring a taste of Greece to your kitchen any night of the week.

Whether served in pita wraps, bowls, or as part of a family-style spread, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Bookmark the recipe, experiment with your favorite variations, and explore more Greek recipes to round out your menu.