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chicken souvlaki

chicken souvlaki

Chicken souvlaki with tender, marinated chicken—ideal for flavorful, quick meals. Discover this light Greek classic now!
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Total Time 41 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Greek
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 500 g chicken breast cubed
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon fresh oregano chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 whole lemon cut into wedges, for serving
  • 0.25 cup plain Greek yogurt optional, for serving

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix well.
  2. Add the chicken breast cubes to the marinade. Mix until all pieces are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for best flavor.
  3. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.
  4. Grill the skewers for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
  5. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and a side of plain Greek yogurt if desired. Enjoy your chicken souvlaki hot!

Notes

Chicken souvlaki stands out as a beloved Greek dish, perfect for quick lunches, family dinners, or meal prep. Its simple preparation and bright, tangy profile make it a crowd-pleaser—whether wrapped in pita, served as an appetizer, or atop a fresh salad. Versatile, flavorful, and easy to customize, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a global favorite.

Essential tips for juicy, tender chicken souvlaki

  • Marinate longer for deeper flavor: While 30 minutes works, letting your chicken soak overnight truly intensifies the aroma of lemon and oregano.
  • Consistent chicken sizes: Cut your chicken cubes evenly to ensure everything grills uniformly and remains moist.
  • Skewer tip: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes so they don’t burn during grilling.

Ingredient swaps & flavor upgrades

  • Chicken thigh can be swapped for breast if you prefer a richer, juicier bite.
  • Add a hint of smoked paprika or cumin to intensify the Mediterranean flair.
  • Serve with tzatziki, a cucumber-yogurt sauce, for an extra punch of freshness.

Serving ideas and delicious combinations

  • Accompany your chicken souvlaki with grilled vegetables, Greek salad, or lemon rice pilaf for a vibrant, balanced meal.
  • For gatherings, assemble mini skewers as party appetizers—easy to eat and always a hit.
  • Add flavor twists: Mix in fresh herbs like mint or parsley to the marinade, or sprinkle with feta cheese before serving for a true Greek touch.
With these practical tips, your chicken souvlaki will always turn out irresistibly juicy and brimming with Mediterranean flavor!