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Greek Chicken Souvlaki Skewers

Section: Satisfying Main Dishes for Every Occasion

Greek chicken souvlaki features juicy pieces of chicken, marinated in lemon, olive oil, garlic, and fragrant Greek seasoning. The chicken is threaded onto skewers and grilled until the outside is perfectly charred while the inside remains tender. This dish comes together quickly with minimal prep, and delivers a burst of Mediterranean flavor in every bite. Serve it hot off the grill with warm pita, fresh vegetables, and cool tzatziki sauce for a meal that’s both satisfying and bursting with summer freshness. Enjoy it as a street food wrap or over a crisp Greek salad.

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A woman wearing a pink apron is cutting a cake.
Recipe Author Evelyn
Updated as of Fri, 18 Jul 2025 14:44:11 GMT
A plate of grilled chicken skewers with a side of tzatziki sauce. Bookmark
A plate of grilled chicken skewers with a side of tzatziki sauce. | foodbymary.com

This juicy Greek chicken souvlaki is my go-to for an easy yet vibrant dinner that always disappears fast Whether wrapped in pillowy pita or layered over a fresh salad this recipe brings authentic Mediterranean flavor to your table in under thirty minutes No matter the season the zesty marinade and just-charred edges remind me of lively meals at our Tampa neighborhood cookouts with our Greek friends

My family loved this since the first time I made it for a backyard dinner A neighborhood friend even swore it tasted just like her grandmother’s souvlaki in Athens

Ingredients

  • Chicken breast boneless skinless: Choose fresh and firm pieces for even cooking but chicken thighs also work beautifully for extra richness
  • Olive oil extra virgin: Use for authentic flavor and moisture in marinade and look for cold pressed high quality
  • White wine vinegar: Offers a mild tang that brightens the marinade You can use red wine vinegar for deeper traditional notes
  • Fresh garlic cloves: Fresh minced garlic brings sharp Mediterranean aroma Jarred is fine in a pinch but fresh is best
  • Greek seasoning: A combination of dried oregano thyme marjoram and rosemary Mix your own for the brightest flavor or use a trusted pre blended version
  • Fresh lemon juice: Squeeze lemons yourself for lively acidity that also tenderizes the chicken Avoid bottled for best results
  • Kosher salt and black pepper: Season to taste and use freshly ground pepper for more kick

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the marinade:
Combine olive oil white wine vinegar fresh lemon juice Greek seasoning garlic salt and pepper in a large zip top bag or bowl Shake or whisk to fully mix until the oil and acids are blended and the garlic is fragrant
Marinate the chicken:
Add cubed chicken pieces to the marinade Make sure the marinade covers all pieces by gently massaging the bag or stirring in a bowl Refrigerate for at least six hours or overnight for the richest flavor
Soak and prep skewers:
If using wooden skewers submerge them in water for thirty minutes to prevent burning during grilling Metal skewers skip this step Arrange the marinated chicken on skewers evenly without crowding so that each piece gets a good char
Grill the chicken:
Heat a grill or grill pan to medium high and brush with a little oil Place skewers on the hot surface and cook for about five minutes on each side Turn to brown all sides Grill until chicken is lightly charred at the edges and cooked through juices should run clear
Rest and serve:
Let the skewers rest for three to five minutes before serving to keep the chicken juicy Slide the chicken from the skewers onto plates or tuck them into pita with your favorite toppings
A plate of chicken skewers with onions and herbs. Bookmark
A plate of chicken skewers with onions and herbs. | foodbymary.com

My favorite ingredient here is the splash of fresh lemon It brings out all the other flavors with a brightness that reminds me of summer family barbecues where we’d squeeze lemon over everything Sometimes the simple moments when we passed skewers around the table stand out the most

Storage Tips

Leftover chicken souvlaki keeps well in the fridge for up to three days Store in an airtight container To reheat place in a skillet over low heat until just warmed through or serve cold over salad

Ingredient Substitutions

Chicken thighs can be used for even juicier skewers You can also use turkey or pork with the same marinade If you are out of fresh lemon juice try a splash of orange juice for a different citrus twist

A plate of chicken skewers with white sauce and tomatoes. Bookmark
A plate of chicken skewers with white sauce and tomatoes. | foodbymary.com

Serving Suggestions

Serve tucked in warm pita with tomato lettuce onion and plenty of tzatziki sauce Or add grilled veggies to the skewers for a complete platter Souvlaki is perfect over rice or Mediterranean grain salad for a gluten free version

Greek Street Food Traditions

Souvlaki is a staple of casual Greek food stands where meat is threaded on sticks for quick portable meals The dish is beloved for its bold seasonings and grilling method that caramelizes the outside while keeping the inside moist In many Greek homes souvlaki is a summer favorite meant to bring everyone together around the table

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What cut of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are commonly used for souvlaki, but thighs offer extra juiciness and great taste as well.

→ How long should you marinate the chicken?

For best flavor and tenderness, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but overnight in the refrigerator is ideal.

→ Can you make souvlaki without a grill?

Yes, cook the skewers on a grill pan, use an air fryer, or bake them in the oven for similarly delicious results.

→ Should skewers be soaked before grilling?

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Metal skewers skip this step altogether.

→ What toppings pair well with chicken souvlaki?

Top with crisp lettuce, tomatoes, red onion, and drizzle with classic tzatziki sauce. Serve with pita or over a Greek salad.

→ Can vegetables be added to the skewers?

Absolutely, bell peppers, onions, and zucchini are all great choices to grill along with the chicken for extra flavor.

Greek Chicken Souvlaki Skewers

Juicy chicken skewers marinated in Greek flavors, grilled and served with fresh salad, pita, and creamy tzatziki.

Prep Time
20 minutes
Cooking Time
15 minutes
Overall Time
35 minutes
Recipe Author: Evelyn

Dish Category: Main Dishes

Recipe Difficulty: Medium Effort

Cuisine: Greek

Serves: 4 Serving Size (8 chicken skewers)

Dietary Options: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

What You’ll Need to Cook

→ Marinade

Ingredient 01 60 ml extra virgin olive oil
Ingredient 02 30 ml white wine vinegar
Ingredient 03 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
Ingredient 04 15 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
Ingredient 05 1 tablespoon Greek seasoning blend
Ingredient 06 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Ingredient 07 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Chicken

Ingredient 08 700 g boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 2.5 cm cubes

Steps to Prepare

Step 01

In a large bowl or ziplock bag, combine olive oil, white wine vinegar, garlic, lemon juice, Greek seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to emulsify.

Step 02

Add chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring all surfaces are coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 6 hours or overnight for optimal flavor infusion.

Step 03

If using wooden skewers, immerse them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.

Step 04

Remove chicken from marinade and thread evenly onto skewers, avoiding overcrowding to promote even cooking.

Step 05

Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (200°C). Cook skewers for 12–15 minutes, turning every 3–4 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 74°C and the exterior is golden with light charring.

Step 06

Remove from heat and allow to rest for 3 minutes. Serve immediately with warm pita, tzatziki sauce, and optional accompaniments such as salad or grilled vegetables.

Extra Cooking Tips

  1. Ensure even chicken piece size for uniform grilling and juiciness.
  2. Marinating overnight develops maximum flavor and tenderness.
  3. For extra tenderness, add 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt to the marinade.
  4. Metal skewers eliminate the need for soaking and can be reused.

Must-Have Tools

  • Grill or grill pan
  • Wooden or metal skewers
  • Mixing bowl or ziplock bag
  • Tongs
  • Kitchen thermometer

Allergen Information

Always check ingredient labels for allergens and seek expert advice if uncertain.
  • Contains potential allergens: garlic

Nutrition Info (Per Serving)

These details are for guidance and aren’t a replacement for professional advice.
  • Calories Count: 275
  • Fats: 12 grams
  • Carbs: 2.3 grams
  • Proteins: 36.2 grams