Greek Chicken Souvlaki

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Juicy, smoky, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors, Greek Chicken Souvlaki is the kind of dish that transports you straight to a sunny seaside taverna. Skewered marinated chicken is grilled to perfection, creating a golden char on the outside while staying incredibly tender and flavorful inside. It’s the perfect meal for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual backyard feast.

What makes this dish irresistible is its blend of simple, vibrant ingredients: lemon, garlic, oregano, and olive oil. These classic Greek flavors work magic on the chicken, especially when given time to marinate. Serve it with warm pita, a fresh tomato-onion salad, and a side of tzatziki, and you’ve got a complete meal that pleases every palate.


Ingredients for this Greek Chicken Souvlaki

  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano (preferably Greek)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before using)

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl or zip-top bag, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss well to coat. Cover or seal and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably 3-4 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Grill or Pan

If using a grill, preheat it to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. If using a stovetop grill pan, heat it over medium-high and brush lightly with oil.

Step 3: Skewer the Chicken

Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden or metal skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

Place the skewers on the grill or grill pan. Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown with a nice char and fully cooked through (internal temp of 165°F/74°C).

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the souvlaki hot with warm pita, a crisp Greek salad, and plenty of creamy tzatziki. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh herbs for a restaurant-worthy finish.


Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but 3-4 hours or overnight will deliver the most flavor.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs work beautifully. They tend to be juicier and more forgiving on the grill.

Do I need a grill to make souvlaki?

Not at all! A stovetop grill pan or even a regular skillet works just fine.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can marinate the chicken a day ahead, and even skewer them in advance for a quicker cook.

What should I serve with Greek Chicken Souvlaki?

Serve with warm pita, tzatziki, Greek salad, lemon potatoes, or even rice pilaf.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

Don’t overcook it. Grill until just cooked through (165°F internal temperature), and let it rest a couple minutes before serving.


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Greek Chicken Souvlaki


  • Author: Nora Sinclair
  • Total Time: 22 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Juicy grilled Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a Mediterranean delight that’s perfect for quick dinners or summer BBQs. This easy recipe uses boneless chicken marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano—then grilled to charred, flavorful perfection. It’s a healthy dinner option that pairs well with pita, tzatziki, or a Greek salad, making it ideal for easy dinner ideas, healthy snack plates, or your list of summer food ideas.


Ingredients

1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cubed

3 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp lemon juice

1 tbsp red wine vinegar

3 garlic cloves, minced

2 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

Skewers (soak wooden ones for 30 minutes)


Instructions

  1. In a bowl or zip-top bag, mix olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add chicken pieces and coat well. Marinate in the fridge for 1 to 4 hours.
  3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high; lightly oil the surface.
  4. Thread chicken onto skewers, spacing evenly.
  5. Grill skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning until nicely charred and cooked through (165°F).
  6. Serve hot with pita, tzatziki, and lemon wedges.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes (+1-4 hours marinating)
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Dinner

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