Chicken souvlaki classic dish

December 2, 2025

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chicken souvlaki

Chicken souvlaki with lemon and herbs: the easy Greek skewer that wins your heart and makes healthy meals unforgettable.

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Total Time 41

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Dish

Cuisine: Greek

Calories: 305

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

500 g chicken breast, cut into cubes
2 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
1 tablespoon Greek yogurt
3 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
0.5 teaspoon salt
0.25 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 piece lemon, sliced for serving
4 unit wooden skewers, soaked in water

Method

In a large bowl, combine chicken cubes, olive oil, lemon juice, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to marinate. For even more flavor, marinate for up to 2 hours.
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the pre-soaked wooden skewers.
Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the skewers for about 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
Transfer to a serving plate, sprinkle with fresh parsley and add lemon slices. Serve immediately and enjoy your chicken souvlaki!

Notes

Chicken souvlaki is a beloved staple of Greek cuisine, known for its irresistible aroma and ease of preparation. Whether you’re planning a casual dinner or a vibrant outdoor barbecue, this recipe stands out for its amazing versatility—perfect served as an appetizer, main dish, or even in wraps for a quick meal on the go.

Practical Tips for Perfect Souvlaki

Cut chicken uniformly: To ensure even cooking, try to cut the chicken into cubes of similar size. This helps prevent some pieces from drying out while others remain undercooked.
Marinate for flavor: The longer you marinate (up to 2 hours in the fridge), the more robust the flavor. For a meal in a hurry, 30 minutes is enough, but extra marinating time makes the chicken especially tender and aromatic.
Substitution suggestions: Not a fan of chicken breast? Thighs will add richness and moisture. Greek yogurt can be swapped for plain yogurt, and fresh herbs like thyme or mint can be added for a unique twist.

Preparation Techniques

Soak the skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, don’t skip soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning or catching fire on the grill.
A hot grill is essential: Preheat your grill or grill pan well before adding the skewers. A nice sear locks in juices and gives you those signature grill marks.
Test for doneness: Chicken is cooked through when juices run clear and the center is no longer pink—use a food thermometer if you have one (74°C or 165°F).

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Elevate your chicken souvlaki experience by serving it with classic Greek sides like tzatziki sauce, fresh pita bread, and a crisp salad with tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and feta. For a heartier meal, pair with lemon rice or roasted potatoes. These skewers also work beautifully tucked into a warm pita with greens and a drizzle of extra lemon juice.

For a creative variation, experiment with adding bell peppers, red onion, or zucchini pieces onto the skewers. Each bite bursts with color, nutrients, and extra flavor—a delight for both eyes and palate!

Tagged:healthy mediterranean diet recipe

Mileni Sabatini

Milena is a passionate home cook who finds joy in turning simple ingredients into wholesome Mediterranean-inspired meals. Writing on the blog lets her share not just recipes, but her love for balance and everyday wellness.

Chicken souvlaki classic dish