Chicken Souvlaki

Name: Chicken Souvlaki
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 12 oz skinless, boneless chicken breast (cut into cubes); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt; 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 cloves garlic (minced); Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Published: June 21, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up Chicken Souvlaki in no time.
Flavor Packed: The marinade infuses the chicken with delicious flavors of garlic and lemon, creating a mouthwatering experience.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as skewers, in wraps, or alongside salads for a balanced meal.
Healthy Choice: Low in carbs and high in protein, this dish fits well into various dietary plans.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a barbecue party or a cozy dinner at home, Chicken Souvlaki suits all gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making Chicken Souvlaki, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will enhance your cooking experience and ensure the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill (outdoor or indoor)
Bamboo skewers
Mixing bowl
Knife and cutting board
Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

Grill: Provides even cooking and perfect char marks for delicious flavor.
Bamboo Skewers: Help hold the chicken together during grilling for easy handling.
Mixing Bowl: Ideal for marinating chicken evenly with all the flavorful ingredients.

Ingredients

To create this tasty Chicken Souvlaki, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade

12 oz (350g) skinless and boneless chicken breast (cut into cubes)
2 tablespoons olive oil (for grilling)
1 1/2 tablespoons Pompeian Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
3 dashes ground black pepper
2 cloves garlic
1/4 teaspoon salt

For Dipping Sauce

Ranch dressing (for dipping)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Chicken Souvlaki

Step 1: Soak Skewers

Soak the bamboo skewers in cold water for one hour. This prevents them from burning on the grill.

Step 2: Prepare Chicken Marinade

Cut the chicken into 16 equal-sized cubes. Pat them dry with paper towels. In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, olive oils, lemon juice, garlic (minced), salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken cubes to the bowl to marinate for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble Skewers

Thread four pieces of marinated chicken onto each skewer. Repeat this process until you have four skewers ready for grilling.

Step 4: Grill Chicken Souvlaki

Fire up your outdoor or indoor grill. Grill the chicken skewers until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). While grilling, use a basting brush to apply olive oil on the chicken for extra moisture and flavor.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Once done grilling, serve the Chicken Souvlaki hot with ranch dressing for dipping. Optionally garnish with fresh parsley for added color and flavor. Enjoy!

How to Serve Chicken Souvlaki

Serving Chicken Souvlaki can elevate your meal experience. This juicy grilled chicken dish pairs well with a variety of sides and sauces, making it versatile for any occasion. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions.

With Pita Bread

Serve the chicken souvlaki wrapped in warm pita bread for a classic Greek experience. Pair with fresh vegetables like lettuce and tomatoes.

With Tzatziki Sauce

Top your Chicken Souvlaki with tzatziki, a refreshing cucumber-yogurt sauce that complements the grilled flavors perfectly.

Over a Greek Salad

Arrange the chicken on a bed of mixed greens with feta cheese, olives, and a drizzle of olive oil for a deliciously light meal.

With Rice Pilaf

Serve alongside fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs for a filling option that balances the dish’s flavors.

In a Wrap

Roll the Chicken Souvlaki in a flatbread wrap with assorted veggies and sauces. This makes for an easy-to-eat meal perfect for picnics or casual dining.

How to Perfect Chicken Souvlaki

To achieve the best Chicken Souvlaki, follow these simple tips. These pointers ensure your chicken remains juicy and flavorful.

Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh chicken and high-quality olive oil to enhance the overall taste.
Marinate Well: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes. Longer marination can yield even more flavor.
Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before placing the skewers on it; this helps achieve that beautiful char while keeping the inside tender.
Don’t Overcrowd Skewers: Leave some space between each piece of chicken on the skewer so they cook evenly.
Use a Meat Thermometer: Check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Rest Before Serving: Let the skewers rest for a few minutes after grilling. This allows juices to redistribute within the meat.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Souvlaki

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Souvlaki can enhance its flavors and create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

Greek Salad: A mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta cheese dressed in olive oil brings freshness to your plate.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted with herbs add color and nutrition to complement your souvlaki.
Lemon Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with lemon juice and zest provides a bright contrast to the savory chicken.
Hummus: This creamy dip made from chickpeas is great as an appetizer or alongside your souvlaki for added flavor.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter adds a delightful crunch when enjoyed alongside grilled chicken.
Fried Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with herbs make for indulgent comfort food that pairs nicely with grilled meats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken Souvlaki can be simple, but some common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

Skipping the marinade: Marinating the chicken is crucial for flavor. Always marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance taste and juiciness.
Using wooden skewers without soaking: Soaking bamboo skewers prevents them from burning on the grill. Make sure to soak them in cold water for at least one hour before using.
Overcrowding the skewers: Packing too much chicken on each skewer can lead to uneven cooking. Thread only 4 pieces per skewer for best results.
Not preheating the grill: A hot grill ensures a good sear and prevents sticking. Always preheat your grill before adding the chicken.
Ignoring cooking times: Cooking chicken too long will make it dry. Grill until cooked through, checking with a meat thermometer if needed.

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Chicken Souvlaki in an airtight container.
It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chicken Souvlaki

Place cooled Chicken Souvlaki in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Chicken Souvlaki

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake Chicken Souvlaki for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals, checking frequently.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little olive oil and cook the Chicken Souvlaki, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Souvlaki?

Chicken Souvlaki is a Greek dish made of marinated chicken grilled on skewers, often served with dips or sauces.

How do I make authentic Chicken Souvlaki?

To create authentic Chicken Souvlaki, use fresh herbs and high-quality olive oil in your marinade. Stick to classic flavors like garlic and lemon juice.

Can I use other meats for souvlaki?

Yes! While chicken is popular, you can also use pork, lamb, or beef for souvlaki rolls. Adjust cooking times as needed based on the type of meat.

How should I serve Chicken Souvlaki?

Serve Chicken Souvlaki hot off the grill with ranch dressing or tzatziki sauce, along with pita bread and fresh vegetables.

Can I cook Chicken Souvlaki in the oven?

Absolutely! You can make Oven Souvlaki by broiling the marinated chicken skewers until cooked through. Enjoy similar flavors without grilling!

Final Thoughts

Chicken Souvlaki is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Feel free to customize your marinade or dipping sauce according to your taste preferences. Try this recipe today and enjoy the amazing flavors of Greek cuisine!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card