This Easy Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki is packed with tasty flavors! Marinated chicken skewers are grilled to perfection and paired with fresh veggies and warm pita. Yum!
You can’t go wrong with a meal that’s fun to eat! I love serving these with a lovely tzatziki sauce on the side for dipping. It’s always a hit at parties or cozy dinners!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. I prefer thighs for a juicier result, but breasts are great too. If you’re short on chicken, you can also use shrimp or firm tofu for a vegetarian option!
Olive Oil: Extra-virgin olive oil adds richness. If you want to switch it up, avocado oil works well too. It’s also light and has a high smoke point, perfect for grilling!
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice gives that bright, zesty flavor. If you can’t find fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice is a fine alternative, but use it sparingly as it can be more concentrated.
Herbs and Spices: Oregano is a must for authentic flavor! If you don’t have thyme or cumin, it’s okay to skip them. I sometimes add paprika or chili flakes for a little heat!
How Do I Grill Chicken Souvlaki Perfectly?
Grilling chicken souvlaki can be tricky if you want that perfect char without drying it out. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high. This helps get a nice sear!
- Don’t overcrowd the skewers. Leave space between the chicken pieces so heat can circulate.
- Grill the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let the skewers rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps to keep the juices inside.
With these tips, your chicken souvlaki will be juicy and delicious every time you make it!
Easy Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1.5 pounds (700g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soaked in water for 30 minutes before use)
- Pita bread, for serving
- Tzatziki sauce, for serving
- Sliced red onions, tomatoes, and cucumber, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 1-3 hours for marinating the chicken. Plus, cooking on the grill will take about 10-12 minutes. In total, plan for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, including marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme (if using), ground cumin (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk together until smooth.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken to the marinade. Toss the chicken pieces in the bowl until all are well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. For maximum flavor, let it marinate for 2-3 hours.
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. You want a hot grill to get a nice char on the chicken!
4. Skewer the Chicken:
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, making sure to leave a bit of space between each piece. This helps them cook evenly.
5. Grill the Chicken:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side. You should see nice grill marks and the chicken should be fully cooked with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This helps keep the chicken juicy!
7. Final Touches:
Serve your delicious chicken souvlaki with warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and fresh sliced vegetables like red onions, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Squeeze additional lemon over the skewers for an extra zesty kick, if desired.
Enjoy your flavorful and easy Greek Chicken Souvlaki!
FAQ for Easy Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Can I Use Different Meats for Souvlaki?
Absolutely! While chicken is traditional, you can use pork, lamb, or beef for souvlaki. Just adjust the cooking time according to the thickness and type of meat you choose.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight is a great idea! It enhances the flavor and tenderness of the meat. Just ensure to store it properly in the refrigerator.
What Should I Serve with Chicken Souvlaki?
Chicken souvlaki pairs wonderfully with tzatziki sauce, warm pita bread, and fresh vegetables like sliced red onions, tomatoes, and cucumbers. You could also serve it with a Greek salad or rice for a more complete meal!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop, and it tastes great as a salad topping or in wraps!
