This Easy Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a tasty treat that’s perfect for summer grilling! It’s made with juicy marinated chicken, fresh veggies, and a hint of lemon.
Who wouldn’t love a dish that lets you eat with your hands? I like to serve these skewers with some warm pita and tzatziki for dipping—trust me, it’s a game changer!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. Thighs are a bit juicier, so I prefer those. If you’re keeping it vegetarian, try using firm tofu or portobello mushrooms as a substitute!
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the marinade. If you need a substitute, avocado oil works well too, but I like the flavor of good quality olive oil here.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives a vibrant flavor. Bottled juice can work in a pinch, but nothing beats fresh! Lime juice can be a good alternative if lemon isn’t handy.
Herbs: Greek oregano is ideal for its aromatic quality. If you can’t find it, regular oregano will do. Dried thyme adds a nice touch; you might use other herbs like rosemary or Italian seasoning if you prefer.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Souvlaki is Juicy and Flavorful?
The marinade is key! Make sure you let the chicken soak in the marinade for at least an hour. This is where the flavors penetrate the meat. Longer marinating (2-3 hours) means even more flavor. When grilling, keep an eye on the heat—medium-high is perfect for a lovely char!
- Soak Wooden Skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them for 30 minutes before grilling. This helps prevent them from burning.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: When threading chicken, leave a little space between pieces. This helps them cook evenly and develop great grill marks.
- Resting Time: Let the grilled skewers rest a few minutes before serving. This helps keep them juicy.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have delicious, juicy chicken souvlaki every time! Enjoy with your favorite sides to finish off a wonderful meal.
Easy Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1½-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano (preferably Greek oregano)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before grilling)
- Optional garnishes: lemon wedges, sliced red onions, cherry tomatoes, fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep, plus 1 hour (or longer) for marinating the chicken. The grilling will take about 10-12 minutes. Altogether, you can expect this delicious dish to be ready in about 1 hour and 30 minutes if you include marinating time. Perfect for a tasty weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley. This will be the flavorful marinade for your chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss them well to ensure they’re all coated evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but 2-3 hours will give you even more flavor!
3. Prepare to Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you plan to use the oven instead, preheat it to 425°F (220°C). This will help your chicken get a nice golden-brown exterior!
4. Skewer the Chicken:
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers. Make sure to pack them closely but not too tightly, allowing space for even cooking.
5. Grill the Chicken:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally. You’re looking for a nice char on the outside, and the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be safely cooked.
6. Alternative: Baking in the Oven:
If you are using an oven, place the skewers on a lined baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes. Turn the skewers halfway through to get them evenly cooked. For extra crispiness, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end!
7. Rest Before Serving:
Once removed from heat, let the skewers rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and makes your chicken super juicy!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the chicken souvlaki hot with optional garnishes like lemon wedges, sliced red onions, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. They’re fantastic served with warm pita bread and a side of tzatziki sauce!
Enjoy your authentic Greek chicken souvlaki wrapped in pita, or pair it with a fresh salad for a delicious Mediterranean meal!
FAQ for Easy Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Can I Use Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful than breasts. They work wonderfully in this recipe. Just make sure to cut them into similar size pieces for even cooking.
How Long Should I Marinate the Chicken?
While 1 hour is the minimum for marinating, for the best flavor, aim to marinate the chicken for 2-3 hours. You can even marinate it overnight for an even richer taste!
Can I Make Souvlaki Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and marinate it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just remember to thread the chicken onto skewers just before grilling or baking for the best results.
What Should I Serve with Chicken Souvlaki?
This dish pairs beautifully with warm pita bread and tzatziki sauce. You can also serve it with a fresh Greek salad, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
