Chicken souvlaki is a beloved Greek street food made with juicy marinated chicken, grilled on skewers and often served with pita, tzatziki, and fresh veggies. It’s simple, full of flavor, and perfect for summer meals or backyard grilling.
This version brings you tender, herby chicken souvlaki just like you’d find in Greece — but easy to make at home!
What Is Souvlaki?
Souvlaki (soo-VLAH-kee) refers to small pieces of meat (and sometimes veggies) grilled on a skewer. In Greece, you’ll see it served either as a plate with sides or wrapped in pita with sauces and garnishes.
Chicken is one of the most popular versions. The key is a good marinade — usually a mix of olive oil, lemon, garlic, oregano, and a few pantry spices — to infuse flavor and add some tenderness.
Why I Love This Recipe?
First of all, it’s fast! You can marinate the chicken in the morning and have dinner sizzling on the grill by evening. The marinade is made with basic ingredients, but the result is so bright and flavorful.
Plus, it’s versatile — serve it in wraps, over rice, or alongside a big Greek salad. It’s also a hit at BBQs (people love food on sticks, right?).
Key Ingredients & Substitutions for Chicken Souvlaki
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs stay juicier than breasts, but both work well.
Olive Oil: The base of the marinade — use good Greek olive oil if you have it.
Lemon Juice: Adds tang and helps tenderize the chicken.
Garlic: Fresh and finely minced — essential for the flavor.
Dried Oregano: A classic Greek herb.
Salt & Pepper: Season generously for best results.
Optional Spices: Paprika, thyme, or chili flakes for variation.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing Bowl or Zip Bag: For marinating the chicken.
- Skewers: Wooden or metal — if using wood, soak them for 30 minutes.
- Grill or Grill Pan: For cooking over medium-high heat.
- Tongs: For flipping safely.
- Meat Thermometer (optional): To check for doneness (75°C / 165°F).
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Chicken Souvlaki
Step 1: Make the Marinade
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and any optional spices.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- Cut chicken into bite-sized chunks and place in the marinade.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to 8 hours for more flavor).
Step 3: Skewer and Preheat
- Thread the marinated chicken onto soaked skewers.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Step 4: Grill
- Grill skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
- Let the skewers rest a few minutes before serving.
Expert Tips for the Best Chicken Souvlaki
Don’t skip the marinating time — it makes a huge difference!
Soak wooden skewers — otherwise they’ll burn on the grill.
Use a hot grill for those tasty charred edges.
Cut chicken evenly so everything cooks at the same time.
Want a twist? Add a few chunks of red onion or bell pepper to the skewers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chicken souvlaki with warm pita, tzatziki, sliced tomatoes, onions, and maybe a few fries if you’re going Greek-style. Or keep it light with a big Greek salad and lemon potatoes. It’s great for wraps, bowls, or even cold leftovers!
Make-Ahead and Storage
Make-Ahead: Chicken can be marinated up to 8 hours in advance.
Fridge: Store cooked souvlaki in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze uncooked, marinated chicken (without skewers) for up to 2 months.
FAQs
Can I bake instead of grill?
Yes! Bake at 200°C (400°F) for about 20 minutes, turning once.
Can I cook this in a pan?
Absolutely. Use a non-stick or cast iron pan and cook over medium heat.
Is souvlaki spicy?
Not traditionally, but you can add chili flakes if you want a little heat.
What’s the best cut of chicken to use?
Chicken thighs stay juicier, but breasts work too if you prefer leaner meat.
Traditional Greek Chicken Souvlaki
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including marinating)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a flavorful grilled dish made with marinated chicken skewers — easy, juicy, and perfect with pita and tzatziki.
Ingredients
- 600 g (1.3 lb) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon paprika or thyme
Instructions
- Make the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and optional spices.
- Marinate the chicken: Cut chicken into chunks. Add to the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for 1–8 hours.
- Prepare skewers: Soak wooden skewers if using. Thread chicken pieces onto skewers.
- Preheat grill: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Grill chicken: Cook the skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and fully cooked (internal temp 75°C / 165°F).
- Rest and serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness.
Don’t overcrowd the skewers — leave a little space between pieces.
Add a touch of honey to the marinade if you like a hint of sweetness.
Serve with extra lemon wedges and tzatziki on the side!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Calories: 290
- Fat: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 27g
Nutrition information
This website gives estimated nutritional information, which might change depending on the ingredients used.
