A Mediterranean Classic, Tender Grilled Chicken Skewers Packed with Mediterranean Flavors
Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a delicious and flavorful dish featuring marinated chicken grilled to perfection and served with warm pita, tzatziki sauce, and fresh veggies. This dish is a staple in Greek cuisine and is easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients. Perfect for a summer BBQ or a quick weeknight meal, it will satisfy your Mediterranean food cravings.
Souvlaki is perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or casual get-togethers. It’s light and refreshing and pairs well with various Mediterranean sides.
How to Make From Scratch
- Marinate the Chicken: Combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or overnight for maximum flavor.
- Skewer and Grill: Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers and grill until perfectly cooked.
- Serve: Serve the souvlaki with warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions.
When to Flip
Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks.
How to Reheat
Reheat the souvlaki in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. For a crispier finish, you can also reheat it on the grill or stovetop.
Can You Save the Batter?
This recipe doesn’t involve a batter, but the marinade can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can You Freeze?
Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken before grilling. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months, then thaw it overnight in the fridge before grilling.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs cut into cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers
- Optional for serving: pita bread, tzatziki sauce, sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion
Directions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken to the bowl and toss to coat in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight, for deeper flavor.
- Skewer the Chicken: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken skewers for 5-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C).
- Serve: Serve the souvlaki with warm pita, tzatziki sauce, and a fresh salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions.
Editor’s Note:
For an authentic Greek experience, serve this souvlaki with tzatziki sauce and a side of Greek salad. You can substitute chicken with pork or lamb for a different protein.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
Calories: 350
Fat: 15g
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 12g
