Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a staple of Mediterranean cuisine, known for its bold flavors and simplicity. This dish features marinated chicken grilled to perfection, served on skewers alongside vibrant bell peppers and onions. Paired with creamy tzatziki sauce, this meal is not only delicious but also packed with protein and healthy fats, making it a perfect choice for those following a Mediterranean diet. Ideal for summer grilling, family dinners, or meal prep, Greek Chicken Souvlaki is incredibly versatile. Serve it with warm pita bread, a fresh Greek salad, or even over rice for a satisfying meal. The combination of juicy, flavorful chicken with cool and tangy tzatziki creates a perfect balance of taste and texture, making it a must-try for any food lover

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 red onion, cut into chunks
1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
Wooden or metal skewers

Tzatziki Sauce:

1 cup Greek yogurt
½ cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.
While the chicken marinates, prepare the tzatziki sauce by combining Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh dill in a bowl. Mix well and season with salt and pepper. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning.
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, alternating with red onion, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper chunks.
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates.
Grill the skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has a slight char.
Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serve hot with tzatziki sauce, pita bread, and a side of fresh salad.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Marinating Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 57 minutes

Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Greek Chicken Souvlaki – The Ultimate Guide to Juicy, Flavorful Mediterranean Skewers

What Is Greek Chicken Souvlaki?

Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a beloved dish in Greek cuisine, consisting of marinated chicken pieces threaded onto skewers and grilled to perfection. The word souvlaki comes from the Greek word souvla, meaning “skewer” or “spit.” This dish dates back to ancient Greece, where it was a popular street food cooked over an open flame. Today, it remains a staple in Greek households, restaurants, and outdoor barbecues.

Souvlaki is often served in multiple ways—on skewers as a main dish, wrapped in warm pita with vegetables, or plated with rice, salad, and tzatziki sauce. Its simplicity, bold flavors, and healthy ingredients make it a favorite among Mediterranean food lovers worldwide.

Why This Recipe Is the Best

There are many versions of souvlaki, but this recipe stands out for several reasons:

Authentic Mediterranean Flavors – The combination of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and traditional Greek herbs like oregano and thyme infuses the chicken with an unmistakable Mediterranean taste.
Perfectly Juicy and Tender Chicken – The marinade not only enhances flavor but also helps tenderize the chicken, keeping it moist and succulent even after grilling.
Healthy and Nutritious – This dish is naturally low in carbs and high in protein, making it a great choice for those following a Mediterranean diet, keto, or paleo lifestyle.
Quick and Easy to Prepare – With just 15 minutes of prep time and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, summer cookouts, or meal prepping.
Versatile Serving Options – Enjoy it straight off the skewer, in a pita wrap, or with a fresh Greek salad and grilled vegetables. The possibilities are endless!
Crowd-Pleasing Dish – Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a summer barbecue, these flavorful chicken skewers are always a hit.

Health Benefits of Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Greek cuisine is known for being one of the healthiest in the world, and this souvlaki recipe is no exception. Here’s why:

Rich in Lean Protein – Chicken breast and thighs provide a high-quality source of protein, essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall health.
Packed with Antioxidants – Garlic, oregano, and thyme are loaded with antioxidants that help fight inflammation and support the immune system.
Heart-Healthy Fats – Olive oil, a staple of the Mediterranean diet, is full of monounsaturated fats that promote heart health.
Supports Digestion – The yogurt-based tzatziki sauce contains probiotics, which aid digestion and promote gut health.
Low in Carbs and Calories – This dish is naturally low in carbs, making it a great choice for those on a low-carb or keto diet.

Tips for the Best Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Marinate for Maximum Flavor – For the most flavorful and tender chicken, let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but ideally up to 2 hours. The longer it sits, the deeper the flavors will be.
Use Chicken Thighs for Extra Juiciness – While chicken breast is leaner, chicken thighs add more juiciness and flavor to the skewers.
Soak Wooden Skewers – If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
Don’t Overcook – Chicken should be cooked until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Overcooking can dry it out, so use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Rest Before Serving – Let the skewers rest for a few minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki

There are so many ways to enjoy this delicious dish. Here are some popular serving suggestions:

With Tzatziki and Pita – Serve with warm pita bread and a generous dollop of homemade tzatziki sauce for a classic Greek experience.
On a Platter – Pair with a Greek salad, lemon rice, and roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
In a Wrap – Stuff the grilled chicken into a pita with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and feta cheese for an easy, handheld meal.
With Grilled Vegetables – Add extra veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes to the skewers for a healthy, colorful twist.
Over a Grain Bowl – Serve the souvlaki over quinoa, bulgur, or couscous for a filling and nutritious meal.

Common Variations and Substitutions

While traditional Greek Chicken Souvlaki is made with simple ingredients, you can easily customize it to your taste:

Swap Chicken for Lamb or Pork – Souvlaki is often made with other proteins like lamb, pork, or beef. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Use Different Herbs and Spices – Add a touch of cinnamon, coriander, or turmeric for a slightly different flavor profile.
Make It Spicy – Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade for a little heat.
Try a Dairy-Free Tzatziki – Use coconut yogurt instead of Greek yogurt for a dairy-free version of tzatziki.

Greek Chicken Souvlaki for Meal Prep

This recipe is perfect for meal prepping because it’s easy to make in advance and stores well. Here’s how to do it:

Marinate Ahead of Time – You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
Pre-Skewer for Convenience – Assemble the skewers in advance and store them in an airtight container until ready to grill.
Cook and Store – After grilling, store the cooked souvlaki in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freeze for Later – You can freeze the marinated raw chicken for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before grilling.

To reheat, simply warm the skewers in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

Conclusion

Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a simple yet flavorful dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. With its juicy, marinated chicken, smoky grilled char, and creamy tzatziki sauce, it’s a meal that never disappoints. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, prepping a weeknight dinner, or just craving a taste of Greece, this recipe is a must-try. Its combination of lean protein, heart-healthy fats, and fresh ingredients makes it both delicious and nutritious. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can enjoy it as a main dish, in a wrap, or even as part of a Mediterranean-inspired bowl.