chicken souvlaki -

chicken souvlaki

Chicken souvlaki: juicy Greek skewers with lemon, yogurt, and spices. An easy, healthy dish for busy days. Try this twist!

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Total Time 41

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Lunch or Dinner

Cuisine: Greek

Calories: 270

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

500 g chicken breast, cut into cubes
2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
0.5 teaspoon salt
0.25 teaspoon black pepper
1 unit lemon, cut into wedges for serving optional
1 handful fresh parsley, chopped optional

Method

In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Add the chicken cubes to the marinade. Mix well until all pieces are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to develop (you can marinate for up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 15 minutes before threading the chicken to prevent burning.
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, distributing them evenly.
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the surface before grilling.
Grill the chicken souvlaki skewers for 12–13 minutes, turning every few minutes, until the chicken is golden, juicy, and cooked through.
Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for an authentic Greek touch. Pair with pita bread or Greek yogurt dip if desired.

Notes

Chicken souvlaki is a beloved Greek street food that stands out for its simplicity, flavor, and versatility. Whether you’re preparing a fast weeknight dinner or serving friends at a weekend barbecue, this recipe adapts beautifully to different occasions. The skewered, marinated chicken pairs well with various sides, making it extremely popular across Mediterranean-inspired kitchens.

Practical Tips for Success

Marinating the chicken is the secret to achieving juicy, flavorful souvlaki. For the best results, don’t rush this step—aim for at least 30 minutes, but longer (up to 2 hours) lets the flavors penetrate more deeply. If you’re short on Greek yogurt, a mix of plain yogurt with a dash of lemon gives a similar creamy tang. When grilling, keep the heat at medium-high to get a golden exterior without drying out the chicken.

Making the Most of Your Ingredients

For extra moisture and brightness, brush your skewers with a little olive oil and a squeeze of lemon while grilling. If you want to make this recipe even lighter, swap chicken breast for thigh meat, which offers a richer flavor and remains tender.

Preparation and Serving Suggestions

Soaking wooden skewers in water before grilling is a must—it prevents them from burning. Serve your chicken souvlaki with classic accompaniments like warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a crisp Greek salad. You can also add roasted veggies to the grill for an even more balanced and colorful meal. For a fun twist, try threading pieces of red onion, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes along with the chicken.

A fresh herb finish—think chopped parsley or mint—lifts the flavors and brings a pop of color. These little touches turn a simple meal into something special and memorable!