How to Make Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki | Easy, Flavor-Packed Grilled Skewers
Greek Chicken Souvlaki is more than a meal—it’s a vibrant Mediterranean experience wrapped in bold flavors, simplicity, and irresistible char. Traditionally skewered and grilled to golden perfection, this dish brings together tender marinated chicken, fresh lemon, garlic, and oregano. Whether served over warm pita, with a side of tzatziki, or layered in a hearty bowl with rice and salad, Souvlaki offers an authentic taste of Greece from your own kitchen. In this recipe, we’ll show you exactly how to prepare, marinate, and grill Greek Chicken Souvlaki with expert technique, all while keeping it fresh, healthy, and easy to execute.
Overview of Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a traditional Greek street food made from marinated chicken pieces threaded onto skewers and grilled until juicy and charred. This dish is quick to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and flexible in how it can be served. The marinade is the star of the show—featuring lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, and sometimes a touch of red wine vinegar. Perfect for meal prep, summer grilling, or a healthy Mediterranean-inspired dinner, this dish satisfies cravings without compromise. The best part? It’s just as delicious in wraps, bowls, or on its own.
Ingredients of Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Here’s what you’ll need to make authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki:
For the Chicken and Marinade:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1½-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano (preferably Greek)
- 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar (optional for extra tang)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for deeper flavor)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving (Optional but Recommended):
- Warm pita bread or flatbread
- Tzatziki sauce
- Sliced tomatoes
- Cucumber slices
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Let’s break it down into essential steps that maximize flavor and ease.
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium-sized bowl or zip-top bag, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, vinegar, salt, pepper, and paprika. This marinade infuses the chicken with the hallmark Greek flavors—zesty, garlicky, and herbaceous.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add your cubed chicken to the marinade. Toss until all pieces are well coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight for maximum flavor penetration.
Step 3: Skewer the Chicken
Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes if using (to prevent burning). Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill (or grill pan) over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates or surface to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Grill to Perfection
Grill the skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning every 2–3 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through with light char marks. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Remove from heat and rest for 3–5 minutes. Serve warm with pita and all the toppings or over a fresh Greek salad bowl.
Instructions (Full Cooking Guide)
- Mix the Marinade: Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl or resealable bag. Stir until well emulsified.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add chicken pieces and turn to coat evenly. Refrigerate for a minimum of 1 hour or overnight.
- Prepare Skewers: Soak wooden skewers (if using) and thread 5–6 chicken pieces onto each skewer.
- Preheat Grill: Heat grill to medium-high. Lightly oil grates.
- Grill Chicken: Place skewers on grill and cook for about 10–12 minutes, flipping every 2–3 minutes.
- Check for Doneness: Chicken should have light charring and reach 165°F internally.
- Serve: Garnish with lemon wedges, tzatziki, and serve on pita, salad, or rice.
Cook & Prep Times
| Stage | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Marinating Time | 1–12 hours |
| Cook Time | 10–12 minutes |
| Total Time | ~1.5 hours |
Nutritional Information
(Per Serving: 1 Skewer with Toppings)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 26g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Gluten-Free (when served without pita)
Serving of Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Greek Chicken Souvlaki can be served in a variety of delicious and healthy ways:
- Souvlaki Pita Wrap: Tuck grilled chicken into warm pita with tzatziki, red onion, tomatoes, and cucumber.
- Mediterranean Bowl: Layer souvlaki over rice, quinoa, or couscous with roasted veggies and a lemon-herb vinaigrette.
- Low-Carb Salad: Serve on top of a fresh Greek salad with olives, feta, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Family-Style Platter: Arrange skewers on a large board with assorted toppings and dips—perfect for gatherings.
- Meal Prep: Store grilled skewers in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Great with hummus and greens for lunchboxes!
Pro Tips for Perfect Greek Chicken Souvlaki
- Use thighs for juicier results, but breasts are leaner and still flavorful.
- Don’t skip marinating—even a short marinade helps tenderize and enhance the taste.
- Char is key—a bit of browning adds authentic smokiness.
- Grill alternatives: Use a grill pan, broiler, or air fryer if you don’t have a grill.
- Double the batch—leftovers make amazing wraps, bowls, and salads.
