Greek Chicken Souvlaki Flavor

Greek chicken souvlaki captures the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean in a simple yet impressive dish perfect for any occasion. Juicy chicken pieces marinated in lemon, oregano, and garlic are grilled to perfection and served wrapped in warm pita bread with fresh vegetables and creamy tzatziki sauce. This recipe brings a taste of sunny Greece straight to your kitchen with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

I first made this during a warm summer evening when friends gathered around the grill, and since then it has become a crowd favorite in my home. The marinade is so fragrant it fills the kitchen and makes everyone eager to dig in.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: diced for quick and even cooking
• Olive oil: to keep the chicken moist and infuse richness, choose extra virgin for best flavor
• Fresh lemon juice: brings bright acidity that lifts the marinade
• Garlic: finely chopped to distribute flavor evenly
• Dried oregano: adds authentic herbal notes, look for Greek oregano if you can find it
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: season the meat perfectly without overpowering
• Red onion: sliced thinly for a crisp, sharp contrast
• Ripe plum tomatoes: for freshness and a juicy bite
• Tzatziki sauce: offers cool creaminess to balance the spices
• Soft pita bread: provides the perfect vehicle to wrap everything together
• Lemon slices: for an extra fresh squeeze when serving

Instructions

Marinating the Chicken:

In a small bowl whisk olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful marinade. Place diced chicken in a large bowl or ziplock bag then pour marinade over it, mixing to coat every piece thoroughly. Seal and refrigerate for 45 minutes to an hour to absorb all the bright, herbal flavors.

Preparing the Skewers:

Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each piece so heat circulates evenly. If you are using wooden skewers soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during cooking.

Grilling Method:

Preheat the grill to medium high heat and clean the grates well. Oil the grates lightly to stop the chicken from sticking. Grill skewers for about 8 to 10 minutes turning frequently until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Optionally baste once with leftover marinade while cooking but discard any leftover marinade afterwards. Remove from grill and let rest for five minutes before serving.

Oven Baking Method:

Heat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Arrange chicken pieces on a greased baking sheet and bake on the top rack for approximately 5 to 7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 163 degrees Fahrenheit (73 degrees Celsius). Allow meat to rest five minutes before serving.

Assembly and Serving:

Warm pita bread in the oven or on the grill. Fill each pita with the grilled chicken, tomato slices, red onion, and generous dollops of tzatziki. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the whole dish.

My favorite part of this dish is the lively herb and citrus combo in the marinade that truly transforms plain chicken into something fragrant and unforgettable. I will never forget the first time I ate this on a Greek island with salty sea breeze and sunshine all around, a memory this recipe brings back every time I make it.

Storage Tips

Store leftover souvlaki meat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep pita separate to maintain freshness and warm it before serving. Tzatziki does best kept chilled and used within a few days.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have chicken breasts, thighs can be used for a juicier result but will need a slightly longer cooking time. Fresh oregano can replace dried oregano with a more delicate aroma (use more since fresh is less concentrated). Lemon juice can be swapped for lime juice for a slightly different but still fresh citrus profile.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of crispy fries and a Greek horiatiki salad for a traditional meal that feels like a feast. For a lighter option, create a grain bowl with rice or bulgur topped with souvlaki and fresh vegetables. Adding marinated olives and fresh herbs elevates the experience to a restaurant quality plate.

This Greek chicken souvlaki is easy to make and bursting with bright, herbal flavor. Serve immediately for best texture and freshness.

FAQs About This Recipe

→ What cut of chicken works best for souvlaki?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs cut into evenly sized pieces ensure even cooking and tender results.

→ How long should the chicken marinate for optimal flavor?

Marinating for 45 minutes to 1 hour allows the lemon, oregano, and garlic to deeply infuse the chicken with Mediterranean flavors.

→ Can souvlaki be cooked indoors instead of grilled?

Yes, the chicken can be baked in the oven at 350°F (175°C) on a greased tray, turning once to achieve a similar texture and flavor.

→ What sides complement this grilled chicken dish?

Traditional sides include fresh pita, tomatoes, red onions, tzatziki, fries, and Greek salad for a balanced Mediterranean meal.

→ Are there alternatives to chicken for this preparation?

Pork loin, lamb cubes, or tofu can be used as alternatives, each marinated similarly to maintain authentic flavors.