There’s something utterly joyful about skewered chicken infused with bright citrus and earthy herbs, sizzling over hot coals until each bite bursts with Mediterranean sunshine. When you prepare Greek Chicken Souvlaki, every step becomes a mini celebration of fresh ingredients and simple techniques that come together to create incredible flavor. The tender cubes of chicken soak up a vibrant marinade of garlic, lemon juice, and oregano, promising juicy, succulent bites that balance tanginess with the warmth of paprika and a hint of black pepper. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a casual family dinner or hosting friends on a breezy summer evening, these juicy skewers feel like a party on a stick—easy to assemble, impossible not to love.
I can’t help but grin when I recall my first attempt at mastering this classic. I was a rookie griller then, fumbling with wet skewers and debating whether to add extra garlic or more lemon zest. With each hot turn on the grill, the chicken developed gorgeous char marks and smoky aromas swirled through the air. Now, I tweak the marinade just enough—sometimes a dash of red wine vinegar, sometimes a whisper of paprika—to keep things interesting. It’s the kind of recipe that welcomes experimentation, yet never strays far from the core magic of Greek flavors. Get ready to dive into one of the simplest yet most satisfying dishes you’ll ever make. Let’s explore how these skewers go from humble ingredients to the star of your next lunch or dinner gathering.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN GREEK CHICKEN SOUVLAKI
Before you roll up your sleeves and start skewering, let’s get to know the stars of our recipe. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of flavor—from the foundation of tender chicken to the zesty kick of lemon and the aromatic lift of oregano. Here’s what you’ll need:
- chicken breasts
Boneless and skinless, these cubes soak up the marinade beautifully. Their neutral flavor makes them the perfect canvas for bold Mediterranean spices and citrus notes.
- garlic
Freshly minced for a pungent, savory punch, garlic forms the base of the marinade and helps deepen the overall taste with its aromatic intensity.
- olive oil
A pillar of Greek cooking, it smooths out the marinade, coats the chicken evenly, and ensures a tender result. Choose extra-virgin for the richest flavor.
- lemon juice
Bright and tangy, it infuses the chicken with refreshing citrus notes, balancing the richness of the oil and garlic. Freshly squeezed is key for that lively zing.
- red wine vinegar
Adds subtle acidity and depth, helping to tenderize the chicken while contributing a gentle tartness that complements the lemon.
- dried oregano
A classic Greek herb that brings an earthy, slightly minty flavor. It’s the defining spice in this dish, painting every bite with Mediterranean authenticity.
- salt
Enhances all the flavors and helps the marinade penetrate the chicken, ensuring each cube is seasoned throughout.
- freshly ground black pepper
Provides a warm, subtle heat and a hint of sharp complexity that pairs perfectly with the lemon and garlic.
- paprika
Offers a mild smokiness and vibrant color, elevating both the taste and appearance of the skewers.
- wooden skewers
Soaked in water to prevent burning, these strips of wood hold the chicken securely while grilling. They add a rustic charm to your presentation.
- lemon wedges
Served alongside, they invite diners to squeeze extra freshness over the hot chicken, brightening each bite with zesty aroma.
HOW TO MAKE GREEK CHICKEN SOUVLAKI
Let’s walk through the simple yet transformative steps that turn humble ingredients into sensational skewers. Follow these instructions carefully and you’ll have perfect Greek Chicken Souvlaki that’s bursting with flavor and grilled to juicy perfection.
1. In a large bowl, combine minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, freshly ground black pepper, and paprika. Stir the marinade well using a sturdy whisk or wooden spoon, ensuring all the spices dissolve and the mixture becomes a smooth, aromatic blend.
2. Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated by massaging the flavors in with your hands or a spoon. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, allowing the citrus and herbs to infuse the meat deeply.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for a surface temperature that’s hot enough to sear without charring too quickly. Remove the chicken from the marinade and thread the cubes onto the soaked skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
4. Place the skewers on the grill grates and cook for about 10–15 minutes, turning occasionally with tongs. Watch for those signature grill marks and ensure the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F), being careful not to overcook to retain maximum moisture.
5. Once done, remove the chicken skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes on a clean plate. This brief pause helps redistribute the juices and keeps each cube tender and juicy.
6. Serve the souvlaki with the lemon wedges on a platter. Pair the skewers with tzatziki sauce, warm pita bread, and a crisp Greek salad for a complete Mediterranean feast that’s bursting with bright flavors and satisfying textures.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR GREEK CHICKEN SOUVLAKI
Serving Greek Chicken Souvlaki is all about complementing those zesty, grilled flavors with fresh, colorful sides and a touch of creativity. Whether you’re plating a casual family dinner or hosting an al fresco gathering, these suggestions will elevate every bite and wow your guests with a true taste of the Mediterranean sunshine.
- Enjoy a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce alongside your skewers. The creamy yogurt base, infused with cucumber, garlic, and dill, provides a cooling counterpoint to the warm, herb-marinated chicken. Spoon it liberally over the skewers or serve it in a communal bowl for dipping.
- Offer a basket of warm, fluffy pita bread brushed with a hint of olive oil and lightly toasted on the grill. Guests can create their own wraps, layering in chicken pieces, shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and a swipe of tzatziki for a fun, hands-on meal.
- Assemble a vibrant Greek salad with juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, red onion slices, Kalamata olives, and tangy feta cheese. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil, a splash of red wine vinegar, and a sprinkle of oregano to echo the flavors in your souvlaki and tie the entire platter together.
- Drizzle your finished skewers with a bit of extra lemon juice and a flick of good-quality olive oil just before serving. This final flourish adds a fresh, glossy sheen and brightens every mouthful, highlighting the citrusy brightness woven throughout your marinade.
HOW TO STORE GREEK CHICKEN SOUVLAKI
Proper storage is key if you want to enjoy the full flavor and juicy texture of Greek Chicken Souvlaki later on. Whether you have leftovers or you’re prepping ahead for a weeknight meal, these tips will help you maintain freshness and prevent dryness, so each reheated bite tastes as satisfying as the first.
Keep any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Let them cool to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation, which can lead to soggy chicken. When reheating, use a low-heat oven or toaster oven to gradually warm the skewers and preserve moisture.
If you’d like to store the chicken cubes separately, slide them off the skewers and arrange in a shallow container. Pour any leftover marinade over the top and seal well—this helps the meat stay juicy and allows the flavors to intensify. Simply reheat in a skillet with a splash of olive oil for best results.
For longer-term storage, freeze cooked chicken cubes in freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label with the date and enjoy within 2 months for optimal taste. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then rewarm gently in a covered skillet until hot throughout, adding a drizzle of water or lemon juice if needed to refresh the texture.
You can also freeze the unused marinade separately, portioned into ice cube trays. Pop out cubes as needed, thaw, and pour over fresh chicken for quick Greek flavor any time the craving strikes.
CONCLUSION
Greek Chicken Souvlaki brings together the heart of Mediterranean cooking in one vibrant, grilled dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious. From the tangy lemon and garlic marinade to the earthy aroma of oregano and the smoky char from the grill, every element works in harmony to deliver juicy, flavorful bites. This recipe shines whether you’re gearing up for a lively summer barbeque or simply seeking a fuss-free weeknight dinner that feels special. With clear, beginner-friendly steps and readily available ingredients, you’ll find this dish fits perfectly into your meal rotation. Plus, the easy storage tips ensure you can savor these skewers again and again without losing any of their bright, zesty character.
Feel free to print out this article and save it in your recipe box for quick reference the next time you’re craving seaside flavors or hosting a gathering under the sun. Below, you’ll find a handy FAQ that addresses common questions and helpful troubleshooting tips should you need any guidance. And, of course, if you decide to give this recipe a whirl, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Drop a comment with your thoughts, share any twists you tried, or ask for assistance if something didn’t go as planned. Your feedback and questions help me keep the cooking conversation lively and ensure every home cook feels confident at the grill. Enjoy your Greek Chicken Souvlaki adventure!
Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Description
Experience tender chicken cubes soaked in zesty lemon, garlic, and oregano marinade, then grilled to perfection with smoky char and vibrant citrus notes in every bite
Ingredients
Instructions
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In a large bowl, combine minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir the marinade well to ensure all the ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
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Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
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Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and thread the cubes onto the soaked skewers.
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Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. Be careful not to overcook the chicken.
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Remove the chicken skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
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Serve the souvlaki with lemon wedges on a platter. Pair it with a side of tzatziki sauce, pita bread, and a simple Greek salad for a complete meal.
Note
- For extra flavor, try adding a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- If you prefer, you can substitute chicken with pork or lamb for a traditional variation.
- This dish is excellent for summer barbeques and can be easily adapted for indoor grilling.
- Using metal skewers can enhance the cooking process by conducting heat through the chicken from the inside.
