Chicken Souvlaki is a tasty Greek dish featuring marinated chicken pieces grilled to perfection. They’re often served on skewers with fresh veggies and a drizzle of tzatziki sauce.
These little bites are packed with flavor and perfect for a summer cookout. I love to serve them with pita bread and a side of salad—it’s like a mini feast on a plate!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: I recommend using chicken breast for a lean and tender result. However, you can also use chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for plant-based options, try using tofu or seitan as alternatives.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds a rich flavor to the marinade. If you’re out of it, feel free to swap it with avocado oil or vegetable oil. Both work well and keep the chicken moist during grilling.
Lemon Juice: The acidity of lemon juice brightens the dish. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can work, but fresh is always tastier. Lime juice is also a great substitute.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives excellent flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. About 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder equals one clove of fresh garlic.
Oregano: Dried oregano is traditional in this recipe. If you want to switch it up, try using Italian seasoning or thyme for a slight twist. Fresh herbs could also add a nice touch.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
The key to juicy, flavorful chicken souvlaki lies in marinating the chicken. Marinating for at least an hour helps the flavors seep in, but letting it soak overnight elevates the taste. Use a good-quality olive oil and don’t skimp on the lemon juice and garlic!
- Mix the marinade ingredients fully so every piece of chicken is coated.
- Avoid overcrowding on the skewers; this ensures even cooking.
- Let the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This keeps it tender and juicy.
How to Make Chicken Souvlaki
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving:
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes)
- Pita bread
- Tzatziki sauce
- Fresh salad (cucumber, tomatoes, red onion)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Souvlaki recipe will take about 1 hour for marinating, plus an additional 20-25 minutes for preparation and grilling. Total time is about 1 hour and 30 minutes, with most time spent waiting for the chicken to soak up those fabulous flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good mix until everything is well combined. The combination of flavors will make your chicken so tasty!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken cubes to your marinade, making sure they are all coated nicely. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour—if you have the time, letting it sit overnight will make the flavors even better!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While you’re waiting, it’s a great time to get your grill ready. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This will help give your chicken those lovely grill marks and yummy char.
4. Skewer the Chicken:
Once the chicken is marinated, take it out of the fridge. Thread the pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece. This helps them cook evenly. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure they’ve been soaked in water for 30 minutes first to prevent burning.
5. Grill the Chicken:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes. Turn them occasionally so that they cook evenly and get those nice grill marks. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken is no longer pink inside!
6. Prepare the Fresh Salad:
While the chicken is grilling, let’s whip up the salad! In a mixing bowl, combine chopped cucumber, diced tomatoes, and sliced red onion. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the top and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a gentle toss to mix everything together.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken skewers are done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Now you’re ready to serve! Place the grilled chicken souvlaki on a plate alongside warm pita bread, a bowl of tzatziki sauce for dipping, and your fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious homemade meal!
Can I Use Other Types of Meat for Souvlaki?
Absolutely! While chicken is traditional, you can use pork, lamb, or beef as alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type of meat you choose; for example, pork and beef may require a few more minutes on the grill to ensure they’re fully cooked.
What If I Don’t Have Wooden Skewers?
No problem! Metal skewers work perfectly and don’t require soaking. If you don’t have either, you can cook the chicken in a grill basket or on a non-stick grill pan. Just cut the chicken into smaller pieces to ensure even cooking.
Can I Marinate the Chicken for Longer?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavor even more! However, try not to exceed 24 hours, as the acidity from the lemon juice can break down the chicken too much, changing its texture.
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken Souvlaki?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For reheating, you can use a microwave, but I recommend using the grill or a skillet to keep some of that grilled flavor intact. If you have leftover salad, keep it separate to maintain freshness!
