Go Back
chicken souvlaki

chicken souvlaki

Chicken souvlaki brings irresistible Greek flavor to your table. Easy, protein-rich, and perfect for a light, tasty dinner any day.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Total Time 1 hour 1 minute
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Greek
Calories: 355
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 600 g chicken breast, cut into 3 cm cubes
  • 2 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 3 unit garlic clove, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 unit red onion, sliced for serving
  • 1 unit cucumber, sliced for serving
  • 1 unit tomato, cut into wedges for serving
  • 4 unit wooden or metal skewers

Method
 

  1. Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes if using wooden skewers, to prevent burning while grilling.
  2. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to create a marinade.
  3. Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, toss to coat evenly, and cover. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
  4. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, pushing cubes together but not too tightly.
  5. Preheat a grill, grill pan, or barbecue to medium-high. Cook the skewers for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and nicely browned.
  6. Rest the chicken souvlaki for a few minutes before serving for maximum juiciness.
  7. Serve immediately with sliced cucumber, tomato wedges, and red onion. For a complete Greek meal, offer with pita bread and tzatziki.

Notes

Chicken souvlaki is a beloved classic in Greek cuisine, celebrated for its versatility and fresh, bold flavors. It’s perfect for everything from a quick midweek dinner to an impressive backyard cookout. Because it’s so simple and endlessly adaptable, it’s also a fantastic option for those looking to experiment with Mediterranean cooking.

Prep and Flavor Tips

  • Marinating is key: Letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes greatly enhances flavor—but if you have more time, marinate for up to 2 hours to really let the spices and acidity work their magic. If rushed, even 15 minutes will still help.
  • Don’t overpack your skewers: Thread the chicken pieces with a little room between each to help achieve even charring and juicy, tender bites.
  • Ingredient swaps: If you’re out of red wine vinegar, try white wine or apple cider vinegar. Boneless chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for even more succulence.
  • Don’t skip resting: Let the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes before serving; this keeps it extra juicy.

Cooking Techniques

  • Grill or pan: While classic souvlaki is grilled, you can use a grill pan on the stove, or even broil the skewers in your oven if needed.
  • Avoid dryness: High heat and quick cooking are crucial. Overcooking is the number one culprit for dry chicken, so keep a close eye and turn skewers frequently for even results.
  • Maximize flavor: Add a sprinkle of sea salt and a squeeze of fresh lemon over the skewers right after grilling for a bright, authentic touch.

Serving Suggestions & Variations

  • Make it a meal: Serve with warm pita, homemade tzatziki, or a crisp Greek salad featuring feta cheese and olives.
  • Vegetarian twist: Substitute chicken for halloumi cheese or marinated mushrooms for a delicious meat-free version.
  • Creative sides: Try with lemon roasted potatoes, herbed rice, or grilled veggies to round out the experience.
  • Leftover tip: Slice leftover souvlaki and use it in wraps, salads, or grain bowls for a tasty lunch the next day.
With these tips, your chicken souvlaki will come out juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked every time! Enjoy exploring the possibilities and making it your own.