Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a tasty dish made with juicy chicken pieces marinated in herbs and spices. Grilled to perfection, it’s perfect on skewers and served with fresh veggies!
This meal brings the flavors of Greece right to your kitchen. I love to enjoy it with a side of tzatziki sauce. It’s such a fun way to eat, plus it’s all about the grill marks! 😄
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breast is the go-to for this souvlaki. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey breast can work too! Alternatively, try thigh meat for more flavor and tenderness.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my favorite for its rich flavor, but you can use regular olive oil or even avocado oil if you prefer a lighter taste. Just avoid any flavored oils as they might overpower the dish.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice really brightens the marinade. If you’re out, bottled lemon juice can substitute, but fresh is always best! Lime juice could work too for a different twist.
Herbs & Spices: Dried oregano is a classic in Greek cuisine. If you’re fresh out, Italian seasoning is a quick alternative. Thyme adds a lovely earthiness, but you could skip it if you’re not a fan.
Red Pepper Flakes: These are optional based on your heat preference. If you like it spicy, consider adding a bit of smoked paprika or even chopped fresh chili for a different flavor hit!
How Do I Perfectly Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
The marinating step is crucial for making your chicken souvlaki flavorful and juicy. Start by mixing all the marinade ingredients in a bowl. The olive oil will help keep the chicken moist, while the lemon juice and spices add vibrant flavor.
- Make sure the chicken is coated evenly in the marinade. It shouldn’t just be on the surface.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but overnight is best! This allows the flavors to really penetrate.
- When you’re ready to skewer, shake off any excess marinade. This helps to get a nice char without burning the marinade.
How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Additional Items:
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and marinate the chicken. You’ll need at least 1 hour in the fridge for marinating (or overnight for more flavor). Cooking on the grill will take an additional 10-15 minutes. So, expect a total time of about 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, including marination and cooking.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you want some heat). Add the chicken cubes and toss them around until they’re fully coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge. Aim to let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you have time, overnight is best for deep flavors!
2. Prepare Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to keep them from burning on the grill. If you have metal skewers, you can skip this step and move on to skewering the chicken.
3. Skewer the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade (no need to rinse it). Thread the chicken cubes onto the skewers. Make sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking. This will help the chicken cook just right and get that nice grilled flavor!
4. Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill ready by preheating it to a medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). Before placing the skewers on, lightly oil the grill grates. This will help prevent the chicken from sticking and make for an easier clean-up later!
5. Grill the Souvlaki:
Carefully place the skewers on the grill. Cook the chicken for about 10-15 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure they cook evenly. You’re looking for that perfect char, and the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. Serve:
Once cooked, remove the souvlaki from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices in. Just before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top. Enjoy your Greek Chicken Souvlaki warm, maybe with some tzatziki sauce and pita bread on the side for extra goodness!
Enjoy your delicious Greek Chicken Souvlaki!
Can I Use Thigh Meat Instead of Chicken Breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are perfect for souvlaki as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just make sure to cut them into 1-inch cubes like you would with chicken breast, and follow the same marinating and grilling instructions.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for as little as 1 hour, but for the best flavor, aim for 4 to 12 hours. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes can work, just keep in mind the flavor may not be as intense!
What If I Don’t Have Skewers?
No problem! If you don’t have skewers, you can cook the marinated chicken pieces directly on the grill in a grill basket or on a baking sheet lined with foil in the oven. Just ensure the chicken pieces are evenly spaced for proper cooking.
How to Store Leftover Souvlaki?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or use the microwave as a quicker option. Enjoy them in salads or sandwiches for a tasty next-day meal!
