Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a popular Mediterranean dish that’s known for its succulent, marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection.
This authentic recipe combines tender pieces of chicken marinated in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, giving the chicken a delicious, tangy, and aromatic flavor.
Souvlaki is typically served with warm pita bread, fresh vegetables, and a dollop of creamy tzatziki sauce, making it a versatile and satisfying meal.
Perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners, this dish is a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of Greece right at home.
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including marination time)
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Marinate Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Servings and Difficulty
- Servings: Serves 4-6 people
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
The necessary ingredients (possible in all kinds of variations)
- For the Chicken Souvlaki:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, grated and excess water squeezed out
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For Serving:
- Pita bread, warmed
- Fresh vegetables (such as tomatoes, red onions, cucumbers, and lettuce)
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with tofu or halloumi cheese. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pita bread.
Steps
The steps of preparation (possible in all kinds of variations)
This Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe is easy to make and full of flavor. Follow these steps to create a delicious Mediterranean meal that everyone will love.
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
- Make the Tzatziki Sauce:
- While the chicken is marinating, prepare the tzatziki sauce. In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, fresh dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Assemble the Skewers:
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
- Grill the Souvlaki:
- Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Serve:
- Serve the grilled chicken souvlaki with warm pita bread, fresh vegetables, lemon wedges, and a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Enjoy your delicious and authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki!
Nutritional Benefits
This Greek Chicken Souvlaki is not just tasty but also offers several nutritional benefits!
- Protein: Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Healthy Fats: Olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Fresh vegetables and herbs are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium.
- Low in Calories: This dish is relatively low in calories, making it a healthy choice for those watching their calorie intake.
Possible Additions or Upgrades
- Grilled Vegetables: Add grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the skewers for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Olives: Serve with a side of Kalamata olives for a traditional Greek touch.
- Feta Cheese: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the finished dish for a creamy, salty flavor.
- Herbs: Mix in fresh herbs like mint or basil for an added burst of freshness.
- Spices: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Q&A
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative and tend to be juicier than breasts.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the tzatziki sauce up to a day in advance. Just grill the chicken skewers when you’re ready to serve.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the grill before serving.
Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before grilling.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a Greek salad, rice pilaf, or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can use dairy-free yogurt for the tzatziki sauce to make it dairy-free.
How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill?
Make sure to preheat the grill well and brush the grates with a little oil before cooking.
Can I cook this dish in the oven?
Yes, you can bake the skewers in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
How can I make this dish more flavorful?
Marinating the chicken longer, adding more herbs, or including ingredients like lemon zest or wine in the marinade can enhance the flavor.
Can I use store-bought tzatziki sauce?
Yes, store-bought tzatziki sauce is a convenient alternative, but homemade tzatziki has a fresher taste.
Enjoy making this delicious and authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki! Don’t forget to share the recipe with friends and family on social media.
