Chicken Souvlaki is a tasty dish where tender chicken pieces are marinated in herbs and spices, then grilled to perfection. It’s served with warm pita and fresh veggies!
This dish is a hit at my gatherings! You can easily whip it up and make everyone feel like they’re on a Greek holiday. Plus, you can add your favorite dips for more fun!
I love how quick and simple it is to prepare. Just marinate, skewer, and grill—it’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a weekend treat with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe, but you can use thighs for a juicier option. They require a little longer to cook, but the flavor is rich.
Olive Oil: Essential for the marinade, olive oil adds flavor and helps keep the chicken moist. If you’re out, avocado oil is a good substitute.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish. If you don’t have any, vinegar can work, but it might change the flavor profile slightly. I prefer lemon for that fresh zing!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is key here. If you’re short on time, garlic powder can work, though I recommend fresh for the best taste.
Oregano: Dried oregano is classic for Greek dishes. If you’re looking for a different flavor, thyme or Italian seasoning can be good swaps.
Tzatziki Sauce: While store-bought is convenient, homemade is easy and fresher. You can mix Greek yogurt with cucumber, lemon, garlic, and dill if you want to whip it up yourself. It’s worth the effort!
How Do I Grill Chicken So It’s Juicy and Flavorful?
The key to juicy grilled chicken lies in the marinating and cooking process. Make sure to let the chicken soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes to boost flavor. If you have more time, aim for 2 hours.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high. A hot grill is crucial for searing the chicken and locking in moisture.
- Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving some space between pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally. This way, you get nice grill marks and the chicken cooks evenly.
By following these tips, your chicken souvlaki will turn out delicious every time!
How to Make Chicken Souvlaki?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken Marinade:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving:
- 4 pita breads
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Souvlaki recipe takes about 40 minutes to prepare and cook, which includes at least 30 minutes for marinating the chicken. If you have a bit more time to let the chicken marinate (up to 2 hours), it will enhance the flavors even more. So, grab your ingredients and let’s get started!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. This will be the flavorful marinade for your chicken. Make sure everything is blended well.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken cubes to the bowl with the marinade, making sure they are completely coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the fridge. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes for some great flavor (or up to 2 hours if you have time).
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. You want it nice and hot for juicy chicken with grill marks!
4. Thread and Grill the Chicken:
Once marinated, take the chicken out of the fridge. Thread the chicken cubes onto skewers (if you’re using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for 15 minutes beforehand to prevent burning). Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally so that the chicken cooks evenly and gets a nice char.
5. Warm the Pita Bread:
While your chicken is grilling, you can warm the pita bread on the grill. Just place them on for a few minutes until they’re soft and heated through. This adds a delicious touch!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken is cooked through (the juices should run clear when cut), take it off the grill. Serve the chicken souvlaki with your warm pita bread, fresh cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, and tzatziki sauce on the side. Create your own delicious wraps and enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and juiciness to your souvlaki. Just cut them into 1-inch cubes, and follow the recipe as is. Since thighs can vary in thickness, make sure to check that they are fully cooked through.
What If I Don’t Have Tzatziki Sauce?
No worries! You can make a quick alternative by mixing Greek yogurt with diced cucumber, minced garlic, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. It won’t be the classic tzatziki, but it’ll still be delicious!
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
The chicken can be marinated for as little as 30 minutes, but if you have the time, marinating for up to 2 hours will enhance the flavor greatly. Just be careful not to exceed 4 hours to avoid the chicken becoming too mushy from the acidity in the marinade.
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken Souvlaki?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the chicken in a skillet or in the oven. If you prefer, you can enjoy it cold on a salad too!
