Chicken Souvlaki Recipe (with Video)

Chicken Souvlaki Recipe: Chicken Souvlaki is a beloved Greek street food that embodies the spirit of Mediterranean cooking—simple, fresh, and bursting with flavor. At its core, it’s just marinated chicken threaded onto skewers and grilled until charred and juicy. But don’t let its simplicity fool you. The real magic happens in the marinade, where a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs transforms plain chicken into a savory, mouthwatering delight.

Originating in ancient Greece, souvlaki has stood the test of time for good reason. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and universally loved. In Greece, it’s not just food; it’s an experience. Whether enjoyed from a street vendor wrapped in warm pita or served at a backyard barbecue, it delivers every single time.

The beauty of chicken souvlaki is in its adaptability. You can serve it in pita bread with tzatziki and veggies, over a salad, or alongside rice and grilled veggies. It’s one of those dishes that manages to feel both rustic and gourmet all at once.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Why settle for takeout when you can bring the bold flavors of Greece to your own kitchen? This recipe is incredibly easy to follow—even if you’re not a seasoned cook. Plus, it’s healthy, high in protein, and free from any mystery ingredients.

Here’s what makes it a winner:

• Flavor-packed: The marinade alone is worth its weight in gold.
• Quick to cook: Once marinated, it only takes about 10-15 minutes to grill.
• Customizable: You can switch up the sides, adjust the seasoning, or even swap the protein.
• Meal-prep friendly: It stores well and makes a killer leftover lunch.

Get ready to impress your family or friends with a meal that looks and tastes restaurant-quality without the high price tag.

Ingredients Needed

For the Chicken Marinade

The marinade is the heart of this dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional for a smoky kick)
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (for extra tang)

These simple ingredients blend into a marinade that’s tangy, savory, and full of herbaceous goodness. The acidity from the lemon and vinegar helps tenderize the chicken, making it juicy and flavorful.

For the Skewers and Serving

• Wooden or metal skewers
• 1 red onion, chopped into chunks
• 1 bell pepper (any color), cut into 1-inch pieces
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving
• Warm pita bread
• Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Optional additions:

• Cherry tomatoes
• Sliced cucumber
• Feta cheese
• Kalamata olives

These accompaniments add color, texture, and freshness, balancing out the savory depth of the grilled chicken.

Preparing the Chicken

Choosing the Right Cut of Chicken

Both chicken breasts and thighs work well for souvlaki, but they do offer slightly different outcomes. Breasts are leaner and cook faster, making them a good choice if you’re watching your fat intake. Thighs, on the other hand, are juicier and more forgiving on the grill.

Whichever you choose, make sure the pieces are uniform in size. This ensures even cooking, so you won’t end up with some dry chunks and others undercooked. Aim for 1.5-inch cubes, which are ideal for threading onto skewers and grilling quickly without drying out.

How to Marinate the Chicken Perfectly

Here’s where the flavor magic happens. In a large bowl, whisk together all the marinade ingredients. Add your chicken pieces and toss to coat thoroughly. For best results, let it marinate for at least 2 hours—but overnight is even better.

Tips for marinating:

• Use a zip-lock bag for less mess and better marinade coverage.
• Don’t skip the garlic—it’s essential for that authentic Greek flavor.
• Oregano is traditional, but you can add rosemary or thyme for extra depth.

Refrigerate your marinating chicken and give it a toss every now and then to make sure all pieces are well soaked.

Skewering and Cooking

Soaking the Skewers (if using wooden ones)

If you’re using wooden skewers, don’t skip this step—it’s crucial. Wooden skewers have a tendency to catch fire on the grill, which can quickly ruin your souvlaki (and possibly your dinner plans). To prevent this, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the chicken.

Here’s how to do it right:

• Fill a baking dish or large bowl with water.
• Submerge the skewers completely. If they float, place a plate or weight on top.
• Let them soak while your chicken is marinating.

This little prep step can make a huge difference. If you’re using metal skewers, you can obviously skip the soaking—just give them a quick rinse to remove any dust if they’ve been in storage.

Another tip? Consider using double skewers (two sticks parallel to each other) if you’re worried about the pieces spinning when you turn them on the grill. It helps keep everything aligned for an even cook.

Grilling Techniques for Juicy Souvlaki

Grilling chicken souvlaki is where the flavors intensify. The high heat caramelizes the marinade’s sugars and chars the edges of the chicken just enough to create that signature street-food taste.

Steps to grill like a pro:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F or 200°C).
2. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
3. Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked skewers, alternating with chunks of onion and bell pepper if desired.
4. Place the skewers on the hot grill.

Cooking time is usually 10–15 minutes, turning every 2–3 minutes until all sides are golden and slightly charred. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Avoid overcrowding the grill. Give each skewer enough space for the heat to circulate properly. This ensures they cook evenly and develop that delicious crust without steaming.

Pro tip: Brush the skewers with leftover marinade (only if it hasn’t touched raw chicken!) during the first few minutes of grilling to boost the flavor.

Oven and Stovetop Alternatives

No grill? No problem. You can still make mouthwatering chicken souvlaki indoors.

Oven Method:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
3. Place the skewers on a wire rack set over the sheet or directly on it.
4. Bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Broil for the last 2 minutes to add char.

Stovetop Method:

1. Use a cast-iron skillet or grill pan for best results.
2. Heat the pan over medium-high and lightly grease it.
3. Cook the skewers in batches, turning every couple of minutes until cooked through and golden.

Both methods yield fantastic results, especially if you finish them with a squeeze of fresh lemon and a dusting of chopped parsley right before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Classic Greek Sides to Pair With

Chicken souvlaki may be the star, but it truly shines when surrounded by complementary sides that complete the Mediterranean experience.

Here are some traditional (and totally delicious) pairings:

• Tzatziki Sauce: A cooling cucumber-yogurt sauce that cuts through the savory chicken.
• Warm Pita Bread: Ideal for wrapping your souvlaki or scooping up every last bit of sauce.
• Greek Salad: Tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and olives dressed in olive oil and oregano.
• Rice Pilaf: Fragrant and fluffy, it balances the smoky meat perfectly.
• Roasted Potatoes: Tossed in lemon juice, garlic, and oregano before roasting for a zesty crunch.

Add a glass of chilled white wine or iced tea, and you’ve got yourself a Mediterranean feast.

How to Make It a Full Meal

Want to turn your chicken souvlaki into a full, satisfying meal? Try building a Greek-inspired platter or wrap.

Souvlaki Platter:

• A generous serving of chicken skewers
• A side of rice or potatoes
• A fresh Greek salad
• A dollop of tzatziki
• Pita slices on the side

Souvlaki Wrap:

• Stuff pita bread with sliced souvlaki chicken
• Add lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and a big spoonful of tzatziki
• Sprinkle with feta and a dash of lemon juice

Meal-prepping? This dish holds up well in the fridge for 3–4 days. You can reheat the chicken in a skillet or microwave and enjoy it just as much the next day.

Tzatziki Sauce – The Perfect Companion

Homemade Tzatziki Recipe

Tzatziki is more than just a sauce—it’s the soul mate to your chicken souvlaki. Cool, creamy, and bursting with fresh flavor, it brings balance to the richness of the grilled meat. While you can always buy it at the store, making it from scratch elevates your meal to a whole new level.

Here’s a foolproof homemade tzatziki recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat preferred for creaminess)
• 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (or mint)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Grate the cucumber, then squeeze out as much moisture as possible using a clean towel or cheesecloth.
2. Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl.
3. Stir well and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

The result is a thick, tangy sauce that’s excellent with souvlaki, but also works beautifully as a dip for veggies or spread in wraps.

Tips for Perfect Tzatziki Every Time

• Drain that cucumber: Watery cucumber = runny tzatziki.
• Use Greek yogurt: Its thickness makes a big difference.
• Let it rest: The longer it chills, the better it tastes.
• Garlic balance: Start with one clove if you’re sensitive—raw garlic packs a punch!

Tzatziki is one of those “secret weapon” condiments that can instantly make any Mediterranean dish feel complete.

Storing and Reheating Chicken Souvlaki

How to Store Leftovers Properly

Good news: chicken souvlaki tastes just as great the next day—if not better. The flavors continue to meld, making your leftovers even more delicious.

Storage tips:

• Store the skewers (or just the chicken pieces) in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months.

If freezing, it’s best to remove the chicken from the skewers first. This saves space and makes reheating easier.

Reheating Tips

Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place the chicken on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes.

Stovetop: Sauté in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or olive oil to keep it moist.

Avoid overcooking during reheating to maintain that juicy texture. You can also reheat in a panini press if you’re making wraps—it crisps the chicken beautifully.

Making It Your Own – Variations and Add-Ins

Fun Twists on the Classic Recipe

Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to play! Chicken souvlaki is the perfect canvas for creativity.

Try these fun twists:

• Spicy Souvlaki: Add cayenne or chili flakes to the marinade for heat.
• Herb Explosion: Add fresh mint, rosemary, or thyme for a more herbal profile.
• Citrus Punch: Mix in some orange or lime juice for a tropical tang.

You can even swap the protein:

• Pork or Lamb Souvlaki: Traditional Greek options that are just as delicious.
• Tofu or Mushrooms: For a vegetarian-friendly version.

These changes keep things exciting and allow you to tailor the dish to your taste—or your pantry.

Kid-Friendly Modifications

Want to make this dish more appealing to little ones?

• Skip the raw garlic in the marinade and sauce.
• Serve with simple sides like plain rice or pita.
• Add a drizzle of honey to the marinade for a touch of sweetness.

Let kids assemble their own wraps or plates—it’s a fun way to get them engaged and more likely to enjoy the meal.

Health Benefits of Chicken Souvlaki

Why It’s a Great Healthy Meal Option

Not only is chicken souvlaki packed with flavor, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation:

• High in protein: Great for muscle building and keeping you full longer.
• Low in carbs: Perfect for low-carb or keto diets when served without pita.
• Rich in vitamins: Thanks to garlic, lemon, and herbs.
• Healthy fats: From olive oil and yogurt.

Plus, it’s incredibly adaptable to various dietary needs—gluten-free, dairy-free (if you skip the tzatziki), and Whole30 compliant when served with veggies or lettuce wraps.

Choosing lean chicken breast and grilling instead of frying also cuts down on unnecessary fats and calories.

Nutrition Breakdown (per skewer, approx.)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	180-220
Protein	25g
Carbohydrates	2g
Fats	10g

When served with tzatziki and a salad, chicken souvlaki becomes a complete, nourishing meal that keeps you energized and satisfied.

FAQs about Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

1. What is chicken souvlaki made of?

Chicken souvlaki is a Greek dish made from marinated chicken chunks, skewered and grilled to juicy perfection. It’s typically seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and served with pita bread and tzatziki sauce.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are more flavorful and stay juicy on the grill. If you’re team “tender and tasty,” thighs might just win the souvlaki showdown.

3. How long should I marinate the chicken?

For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour. But if you’ve got time, overnight in the fridge will unlock next-level flavor.

4. Can I cook chicken souvlaki without a grill?

Yes! A stovetop grill pan, oven broiler, or even an air fryer can do the trick. The goal is that smoky char — and trust me, your kitchen can deliver.

5. What’s the best way to serve chicken souvlaki?

Serve it in a warm pita with tzatziki, fresh veggies like tomato and onion, and maybe a sprinkle of feta. Or skip the carbs and plate it up with a Greek salad!

6. Is chicken souvlaki healthy?

You bet. It’s high in protein, low in carbs, and loaded with Mediterranean goodness. Just go easy on the sauces if you’re counting calories.

7. Can I freeze chicken souvlaki?

Yes, both marinated raw chicken and cooked skewers can be frozen. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking or reheating.

Conclusion

Chicken souvlaki is more than just a dish—it’s a celebration of Mediterranean flavors, textures, and simplicity. Whether you’re grilling it up for a weekend feast or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe delivers bold taste and flexibility in one easy package. With a few fresh ingredients and some simple steps, you can bring a taste of Greece into your kitchen and enjoy a wholesome, delicious meal that everyone will love.