Go Back
chicken souvlaki

chicken souvlaki

Chicken souvlaki for a quick, healthy twist on Greek cuisine. Delicious juicy chicken, perfect for light lunches or protein-packed dinners!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Total Time 31 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Greek
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 500 g chicken breast, diced skinless
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 piece red onion, sliced thick for skewering
  • 1 piece red bell pepper, sliced thick for skewering
  • 8 pieces wooden skewers, soaked

Method
 

  1. Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
  2. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, Greek yogurt, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
  3. Add the diced chicken breast to the marinade. Mix well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
  4. While the chicken is marinating, slice the red onion and bell pepper into thick pieces for skewering.
  5. Thread the marinated chicken, onion slices, and bell pepper pieces alternately onto the soaked wooden skewers.
  6. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  7. Grill the skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice char.
  8. Remove from heat and let rest for a couple of minutes. Serve warm with lemon wedges, fresh herbs, and a side of Greek yogurt if desired.

Notes

Chicken souvlaki showcases the heart of Greek cuisine—a recipe revered for its simplicity, versatility, and bold yet fresh flavors. Whether you want a quick dinner or a party appetizer, these juicy skewers fit any occasion.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Souvlaki

Marinating is where the flavor magic happens. For chicken that’s ultra-juicy and packed with flavor, marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if possible, let the chicken soak overnight. Make sure every cube is coated for an even taste.
  • Skewer Soaking: Prevent scorched skewers by soaking wooden ones in water for at least 20 minutes.
  • Ingredient Swaps: No Greek yogurt? Use plain natural yogurt for tenderness. You can substitute red onion and bell pepper with zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for variety or to suit your guests’ preferences.
  • Grill Perfection: If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan or even an oven broiler will give you beautifully charred results. Just make sure to preheat and lightly oil the surface first.

Preparation Insights

Uniform size matters! Cut chicken and vegetables into evenly sized pieces for even cooking. When threading ingredients onto skewers, leave a bit of space between pieces—this ensures heat circulates and each piece grills properly. When cooking, don’t overcrowd the grill, giving each skewer enough room for a nice sear.

Serving and Variations

Serve your chicken souvlaki with warm pita bread, a fresh Greek salad, and tzatziki or hummus for dipping. These skewers also pair wonderfully with lemony rice, grilled vegetables, or oven-roasted potatoes. For a low-carb version, serve the souvlaki over a bowl of crisp greens.
Vary flavors easily by experimenting with herbs and spices—try a pinch of cumin or coriander, or fresh mint in the marinade. If you prepare the skewers ahead, refrigerate and grill just before serving for a stress-free meal.
Make each bite memorable by finishing your souvlaki with a squeeze of fresh lemon and a sprinkle of chopped parsley or dill right off the grill. Enjoy the unbeatable combination of juicy chicken, smoky char, and vibrant Mediterranean freshness!