Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe: A Taste of Greece in Your Kitchen

Craving the vibrant flavors of Greek cuisine? Our Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe brings the taste of this Mediterranean classic right to your home. Tender, juicy chicken skewers marinated in a blend of aromatic spices, olive oil, and lemon, then grilled to perfection. Serve them with warm pita, fresh veggies, or a tangy tzatziki sauce for an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe is quick, easy, and sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients for Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Here’s everything you need to make this Mediterranean-inspired dish:

• 2 lbs (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 tbsp olive oil – For marinating the chicken
• 2 tbsp lemon juice – Freshly squeezed
• 3 cloves garlic – Minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano – The star herb for this recipe
• 1 tsp ground cumin – For a warm, earthy flavor
• 1 tsp paprika – Adds a touch of smokiness
• 1/2 tsp salt – To bring out the flavors
• 1/4 tsp black pepper – For a little kick
• Wooden skewers – Soaked in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning

How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki

1. Prepare the Marinade
   In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well-mixed, creating a fragrant marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken
   Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure they’re fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.
3. Skewer the Chicken
   After marinating, thread the chicken onto soaked wooden skewers, ensuring the pieces are packed closely together but not overcrowded.
4. Grill the Souvlaki
   Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken skewers for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
5. Serve and Enjoy
   Once grilled, remove the chicken from the skewers and serve it with pita bread, a Greek salad, or a side of homemade tzatziki sauce. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
6. You can check out more delicious Mediterranean food ideas here.

Tips & Variations for Your Greek Chicken Souvlaki

1. Use Chicken Thighs

If you prefer a juicier, more flavorful cut of meat, substitute boneless skinless chicken thighs for the breasts. They’re a great option for grilling and add extra tenderness.

2. Add Vegetables

Threading vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini onto the skewers alongside the chicken can make for a colorful and delicious dish. These veggies absorb the marinade and cook to perfection on the grill.

3. Make It Spicy

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, try adding red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade. It’ll give your chicken souvlaki a nice spicy kick.

4. Serve with Tzatziki Sauce

Tzatziki sauce is the perfect accompaniment for Greek Chicken Souvlaki. This creamy cucumber yogurt dip complements the chicken’s flavors and adds a refreshing, tangy touch.

FAQ About Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Q: Can I make Greek Chicken Souvlaki without a grill?
A: Yes! If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken in a grill pan on the stovetop or bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q: Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge. This gives the flavors even more time to develop, making the chicken even more delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

This Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe is not only packed with flavor, but it’s also super easy to make. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, weekend barbecue, or a Mediterranean-inspired feast. The chicken is juicy, tender, and bursting with fresh, zesty flavors, making it an irresistible dish for anyone who loves Greek food. Whether you’re serving it with pita and tzatziki or pairing it with a light salad, it’s a meal the whole family will enjoy!

Love this recipe? Explore more Mediterranean-inspired dishes on greenbeancasserolerecipe.com.