Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Savor the flavors of Greece with this Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe! Juicy, marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection and served with warm pita and tzatziki—this dish is simple yet bursting with Mediterranean goodness. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend barbecue!

Chicken souvlaki has been a staple of Greek cuisine for centuries.

The name “souvlaki” comes from the Greek word “souvla,” meaning skewer.

Traditionally, Greek street vendors serve it wrapped in pita with fresh veggies and creamy sauces.

This homemade version brings those same authentic flavors right to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This

1. Authentic Flavors – A traditional Greek marinade using olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano creates the most flavorful chicken.
2. Easy to Make – With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have restaurant-quality souvlaki at home.
3. Perfect for Grilling – Whether you’re using an outdoor grill or a stovetop grill pan, this recipe delivers smoky, charred goodness.
4. Versatile Serving Options – Enjoy it in a pita, over rice, or with a fresh Greek salad for a wholesome meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cuisines: Greek, Mediterranean
Servings: 4
Estimated Cost: $10-$12

Equipment:

• Skewers (wooden or metal)
• Mixing bowls
• Grill or grill pan
• Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp ground cumin (optional for extra flavor)
• ¼ tsp paprika
• Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
3. Prepare the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
4. Preheat the Grill: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and lightly grease it with oil.
5. Grill the Chicken: Cook the skewers for about 4-5 minutes per side, turning occasionally until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve & Enjoy: Serve hot with warm pita bread, fresh veggies, and tzatziki sauce for the ultimate Greek feast!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 290
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fat: 16g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sodium: 350mg

Tips for Success

1. Marinate Longer for More Flavor – Letting the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 2 hours (or overnight) enhances its taste.
2. Use Metal Skewers for Easy Grilling – If you have metal skewers, they eliminate the need to soak wooden ones and prevent burning.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers – Leave small gaps between chicken pieces to ensure even cooking.
4. Let the Chicken Rest Before Serving – A couple of minutes off the grill allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender.

Common Questions

Can I bake chicken souvlaki instead of grilling?
Yes! Bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.

What can I serve with chicken souvlaki?
Pair it with Greek salad, roasted potatoes, or rice for a complete meal.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will make the souvlaki even juicier and more flavorful.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on a grill pan or microwave before serving.

Enjoy this homemade Greek Chicken Souvlaki with family and friends.

Kali orexi (Bon Appétit)!