chicken souvlaki
Chicken souvlaki recipe at home. Greek skewers are delicious, healthy, and easy for busy days. Try this Mediterranean classic!
Ingredients
Method
Marinating the Chicken
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Add the chicken breast cubes and mix well to evenly coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (the longer, the better).
Preparing the Yogurt Sauce
- In another bowl, mix Greek yogurt, fresh dill, grated cucumber, lemon juice, and olive oil.
- Stir until creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning, then refrigerate until ready to serve.
Grilling the Chicken Souvlaki
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Grill chicken skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning to brown all sides, until golden and fully cooked.
Serving
- Serve the chicken souvlaki skewers hot with the yogurt sauce on the side. Add extra lemon wedges and fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
Chicken souvlaki has become a staple on Mediterranean tables and is celebrated for its bright flavors and convenient presentation—perfect for quick weeknight meals or festive gatherings. Its versatility makes it a hit whether tucked in pita bread, added to salads, or served as a vibrant main dish with sides.
Marination is the secret to extraordinary chicken souvlaki. Letting the chicken sit in the lemony, herb-packed marinade for at least 30 minutes ensures the flavors soak deeply into the meat. For even juicier results, marinate for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. If you're short on time, use chicken thigh pieces—they stay tender even with a fast marinate.
Skewering tips: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 20 minutes before threading the chicken. This prevents burning and splintering on the grill.
Customize the sauce: Greek yogurt sauce is a classic, but you can swap dill for mint or add a pinch of cumin for a deeper flavor twist. If you're lactose-intolerant, try plant-based yogurt alternatives and use vegan mayo mixed with fresh herbs.
Perfect texture: Grill your souvlaki over medium-high heat and avoid overcrowding the pan or grill grate. Cook each side just enough for lovely grill marks and juicy insides. Overcooking can quickly dry out chicken breast, so keep a close eye.
Serving suggestions, sides, and variations
- Pair chicken souvlaki with warm pita, crisp Greek salad, or a side of herbed rice for an authentic meal.
- Top with extra fresh lemon, sliced red onions, and cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and flavor.
- For a fun variation, add chunks of bell pepper or red onion to the skewers before grilling.
- Love a little heat? Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of smoked paprika to the marinade.
