Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a traditional Greek street food made from pieces of marinated chicken grilled on skewers. The chicken is infused with the vibrant flavors of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano, then served in warm pita bread alongside fresh tomatoes, red onion, and a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce. This combination of juicy grilled meat and cool, creamy sauce creates a fresh, satisfying meal that’s easy to make and hard to forget.

Whether you’re planning a summer cookout or looking for a flavorful weeknight dinner, this recipe fits the bill. It’s fast, flavorful, and ideal for prepping ahead. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, where a handful of quality ingredients come together to deliver authentic Mediterranean flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Mediterranean flavor
• Quick and easy to prepare
• Naturally gluten-free with the right pita
• Ideal for grilling or oven-baking
• Family-friendly and customizable

From busy weeknights to outdoor gatherings, Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a go-to meal that offers both convenience and flavor.

Preparation Phase and Tools to Use

Before starting the recipe, ensure you have all the essential tools for both preparation and cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls (for marinade)
• Zip-top bag or airtight container
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Grill or oven
• Metal or wooden skewers
• Tongs
• Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing Bowls: Useful for whisking the marinade evenly.
• Zip-top Bag: Ensures the chicken absorbs marinade thoroughly.
• Skewers: Hold the chicken pieces securely during cooking.
• Grill/Oven: You can use either method, depending on what’s available.
• Tongs: Make flipping the skewers safe and easy.
• Meat Thermometer: Ensures chicken is cooked to a safe temperature.

Preparation Tips

• Cut chicken into even-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
• Marinate the chicken for at least 45 minutes.
• If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
• Let the chicken rest after cooking to lock in moisture.

Ingredients List

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed

For the Marinade

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

For Serving

• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 plum tomatoes, sliced
• Tzatziki sauce
• Pita bread (substitute with gluten-free bread if needed)
• Lemon slices, for squeezing

This simple combination delivers a well-balanced profile of savory, tangy, and fresh notes.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken

Place the cubed chicken in a large zip-top bag or a bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Tip: Marinate for up to 4 hours for deeper flavor, but avoid overnight marinating as the acid from the lemon juice can toughen the meat.

2. Prepare the Skewers

Remove the chicken from the marinade. If you’re using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece for even cooking.

3. Grill Method

Preheat your grill to medium-high. Clean and lightly oil the grates. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 163°F. Baste once with the reserved marinade during cooking, then discard any leftover marinade. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving, allowing it to reach the safe temperature of 165°F.

4. Oven Method

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the skewers on a greased baking sheet. Bake on the top oven rack for 5 to 7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 163°F. Rest for 5 minutes before serving.

5. Assemble and Serve

Warm pita bread on the grill or stovetop. Place grilled chicken on the pita and top with sliced tomatoes, red onion, and a dollop of tzatziki. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh burst of flavor.

Creative Serving Ideas

1. Classic Pita Wraps

Serve the grilled chicken in soft, warm pita bread with traditional toppings. Add a few French fries inside the wrap for an authentic Greek touch.

2. Mediterranean Bowls

Skip the bread and create a grain bowl with rice, quinoa, or couscous. Add grilled vegetables, feta cheese, kalamata olives, and a drizzle of olive oil.

3. Souvlaki Platter

Arrange the chicken skewers on a platter with a selection of sides: hummus, tzatziki, warm pita, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber slices. This presentation is perfect for sharing.

4. Lettuce Wraps

For a lighter, low-carb option, serve the chicken wrapped in crisp romaine or butter lettuce leaves with the same toppings.

5. Stuffed Pita Pockets

Instead of wrapping, use pita pockets and stuff them with chicken, tzatziki, and vegetables for a tidy, portable meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Perfecting your Greek Chicken Souvlaki involves more than just following the recipe. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

1. Skipping the Marination

The marinade is what gives souvlaki its signature flavor. Cutting this step short can lead to bland results. Aim for at least 45 minutes, or up to 4 hours.

2. Overcrowding the Skewers

Packing chicken pieces too tightly on the skewers prevents even cooking. Leave small gaps between pieces to allow heat to circulate.

3. Using Cold Chicken

Let the marinated chicken sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before grilling. Cold chicken can cook unevenly and may dry out.

4. Not Preheating the Grill

If the grill isn’t hot enough, the chicken won’t sear properly. This can lead to sticking and loss of juices. A hot grill ensures a nice char and flavorful crust.

5. Forgetting to Let the Chicken Rest

Resting allows the juices to redistribute. Skipping this step may result in dry meat. Let the chicken rest for at least 5 minutes after cooking.

6. Reusing Marinade Unsafely

Marinade that has touched raw chicken should not be reused unless boiled. To safely baste during grilling, set aside a portion of the marinade before adding the chicken.

How to Perfect Greek Chicken Souvlaki Every Time

Mastering this dish requires attention to a few key details:

• Use fresh lemon juice and garlic for the most vibrant flavor.
• Choose chicken thighs if you prefer more tenderness and moisture.
• Grill over medium heat to prevent burning the outside before the inside is done.
• Test doneness with a thermometer—aim for 165°F after resting.
• Warm pita bread before serving to enhance texture and flavor.

Recommended Side Dishes

Pairing Greek Chicken Souvlaki with the right sides elevates the meal. Below are eight ideal accompaniments.

1. Greek Salad

Made with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta cheese, dressed in olive oil and oregano. It complements the flavors of the chicken beautifully.

2. Lemon Herb Rice

Fluffy rice infused with lemon zest and fresh herbs like parsley or dill adds a light, zesty base.

3. Grilled Vegetables

Zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, and mushrooms grilled with olive oil and oregano are a perfect match.

4. Roasted Oregano Potatoes

Crispy oven-roasted potatoes seasoned with garlic, lemon, and oregano add heartiness to the meal.

5. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmades)

These rice-stuffed leaves bring an authentic Greek touch and pair well with tzatziki.

6. Couscous with Lemon and Mint

A bright and fluffy grain dish that balances the savory notes of the souvlaki.

7. Hummus with Pita Chips

Creamy hummus adds protein and richness, great for scooping with warm pita chips.

8. Feta and Olive Platter

A simple side of feta cubes, kalamata olives, and cherry tomatoes rounds out a traditional Greek spread.

Each of these sides brings texture, freshness, or richness that enhances the main dish. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or making a quick family meal, these pairings ensure a complete and satisfying experience.

Recipe Tips for the Best Souvlaki

Consistency and flavor are everything. These pro tips will take your souvlaki from good to exceptional:

• Use metal skewers for convenience and even heat distribution. They also don’t burn like wooden skewers.
• Always cut the chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
• For extra juicy chicken, add a tablespoon of plain Greek yogurt to the marinade. The lactic acid helps tenderize the meat.
• Sprinkle fresh oregano or chopped parsley over the skewers just before serving for a fresh herbal note.
• Don’t skip the lemon squeeze at the end—it brightens all the flavors.

Whether you’re grilling outdoors or using an oven, these small adjustments can make a noticeable difference in both taste and texture.

Storage Instructions

Proper storage helps preserve the flavor and safety of your leftovers.

How to Store Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Refrigeration:

• Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the pita, vegetables, and tzatziki in separate containers to maintain their texture and freshness.

Freezing:

• The marinated raw chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• To freeze, place the chicken in a freezer-safe bag with marinade, remove air, and seal tightly.
• Cooked chicken can also be frozen, but it may lose some moisture upon reheating.

Reheating Instructions

To preserve texture and moisture, choose your reheating method based on the equipment you have:

Oven:

• Preheat to 350°F. Wrap chicken loosely in foil and bake for about 10 minutes or until heated through.

Stovetop:

• Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and cook chicken for 3–5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Air Fryer:

• Set to 350°F and reheat for 4–6 minutes. This helps retain the grilled texture.

Microwave (least preferred):

• Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed.

Avoid reheating the tzatziki sauce, as it is meant to be served cold.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the difference between souvlaki and gyro?

The main difference lies in preparation. Souvlaki uses grilled meat pieces, often on skewers, while gyros are made from shaved meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie. Both are traditionally served with pita and tzatziki but differ in texture and preparation.

Can I make Greek Chicken Souvlaki with chicken thighs?

Yes. Chicken thighs are an excellent alternative to breasts. They offer a richer flavor and remain juicy even after grilling. If using thighs, trim excess fat and cut into equal-sized chunks.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. You can marinate the chicken in advance and cook in batches. Store each component separately and assemble just before eating to avoid sogginess or flavor loss.

Can I make souvlaki indoors?

Yes. Use a stovetop grill pan or your oven’s broiler to replicate the grill marks and flavor. Oven baking is also effective, especially when turning halfway through.

What kind of pita should I use?

Use soft Greek-style pita bread that doesn’t have a pocket. It folds well and holds the fillings nicely. For a gluten-free option, use certified gluten-free flatbreads or lettuce wraps.

Is Greek Chicken Souvlaki healthy?

Yes. It’s high in protein, low in carbs, and made with wholesome ingredients like olive oil, lemon juice, and lean chicken. When paired with fresh vegetables and a yogurt-based tzatziki sauce, it makes for a balanced and nutritious meal.

Can I use this marinade for other proteins?

Yes. The same marinade works well with pork, lamb, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian version. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the protein.

Conclusion

Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a flavorful, versatile, and satisfying dish rooted in the simplicity of Mediterranean cooking. With just a few basic ingredients and a short cooking time, it delivers a meal that feels both light and indulgent. From backyard barbecues to easy weeknight dinners, souvlaki offers endless serving possibilities and pairs beautifully with a variety of fresh sides.

Its adaptability—whether you grill, bake, or broil—makes it a year-round favorite. With proper storage and reheating techniques, you can enjoy its bold flavors beyond just one meal. Whether you’re new to Greek cuisine or already love Mediterranean dishes, this Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe is a must-try.