Greek Chicken Souvlaki: A Flavorful Mediterranean Delight

Introduction

Greek cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and vibrant spices, and one dish that stands out among them is Chicken Souvlaki. This Greek street food staple consists of marinated chicken skewers, grilled to perfection and served with warm pita, tzatziki sauce, and fresh veggies. Whether you’re craving a healthy, protein-packed meal or hosting a Mediterranean-inspired gathering, this Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe is sure to impress.

In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making the perfect Chicken Souvlaki—from choosing the best ingredients to grilling techniques and serving suggestions.

Why You’ll Love Greek Chicken Souvlaki

• Authentic Greek flavors – A delicious blend of garlic, lemon, oregano, and olive oil.
• Easy to make – Simple ingredients with minimal prep time.
• Healthy and nutritious – Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables.
• Perfect for meal prep – Great for lunch, dinner, or grilling parties.
• Versatile – Serve in a pita, on a platter, or over a salad.

Ingredients for Greek Chicken Souvlaki

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional for extra depth)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)

For Serving:

• Warm pita bread
• Tzatziki sauce
• Diced tomatoes
• Sliced cucumbers
• Thinly sliced red onions
• Feta cheese crumbles
• Fresh parsley or dill, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, black pepper, cumin, and red pepper flakes.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Skewer the Chicken

1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
2. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a little space between pieces to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Grill the Souvlaki

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the grates with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked (internal temp: 165°F/75°C).

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

1. Warm the pita bread on the grill or stovetop for a few seconds.
2. Spread a generous amount of tzatziki sauce onto the pita.
3. Add grilled chicken, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and feta cheese.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, and serve immediately!

Variations and Customizations

1. Oven-Baked Chicken Souvlaki

• Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Arrange skewers on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

2. Stovetop Skillet Souvlaki

• Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
• Cook the marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown.

3. Vegetarian Souvlaki

• Substitute chicken with cubed halloumi cheese or tofu.
• Use the same marinade and grill until golden and slightly charred.

4. Extra Spicy Souvlaki

• Add extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of harissa sauce for heat.

What to Serve with Greek Chicken Souvlaki

1. Classic Greek Salad

• A mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, kalamata olives, and feta cheese.

2. Lemon Rice or Couscous

• A bright, citrusy side dish that complements the flavors of souvlaki.

3. Roasted Potatoes with Garlic and Oregano

• Crispy, seasoned potatoes for a hearty addition.

4. Hummus or Baba Ganoush

• Extra dips for a delicious mezze-style feast.

How to Store and Reheat Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Storing Leftovers:

• Keep leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Store pita bread separately to prevent sogginess.

this PIN FOR LATER

Reheating Instructions:

• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping the Marination

• Marinating for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavor.

2. Overcooking the Chicken

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure 165°F (75°C) internal temperature.

3. Using Too Much Oil on the Grill

• Lightly grease the grill to avoid flare-ups.

4. Not Letting the Chicken Rest

• Resting for 5 minutes keeps the meat juicy and flavorful.

FAQs About Greek Chicken Souvlaki

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Thighs add extra juiciness and flavor.

2. What’s the best way to make souvlaki without a grill?

Use a stovetop grill pan or bake in the oven.

3. How do I make a dairy-free version?

Use dairy-free tzatziki (with coconut yogurt) and skip the feta cheese.

4. Can I freeze marinated chicken?

Yes! Freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months and thaw before grilling.

5. How can I make this keto-friendly?

Skip the pita and serve over a Greek salad or cauliflower rice.

Conclusion

Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a flavor-packed, easy-to-make dish that brings the authentic taste of Greece to your table. Whether you grill it outdoors, bake it in the oven, or cook it on the stovetop, this versatile and delicious meal is sure to be a hit.

Try this Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe today, and enjoy a healthy, satisfying meal that transports you straight to the Mediterranean!

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