Greek Chicken Souvlaki Taste

This Greek chicken souvlaki recipe brings the authentic flavors of the Mediterranean straight to your kitchen. The marinade of olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic, and oregano infuses the chicken with a bright and herby character that reminds me of seaside tavernas from my travels in Greece. Whether you grill the skewers outdoors in summer or bake them in the oven any time of year, it is a simple and satisfying dish that pairs perfectly with warm pita, fresh vegetables, and creamy tzatziki.

The first time I made this recipe I was amazed at how a handful of simple ingredients created such memorable flavors. Now it’s a go to when I want a meal that feels special but is quick and fuss free.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: diced for quick and even cooking
• Olive oil: to add richness and help the marinade penetrate the meat
• Fresh lemon juice: for brightness and acidity that tenderizes
• Garlic: brings pungent aroma and depth use fresh cloves if possible
• Dried oregano: for an authentic Mediterranean herbal note choose Greek oregano if you find it
• Salt: enhances all the flavors
• Black pepper: adds subtle heat
• Red onion: thinly sliced to add crunch and mild sharpness
• Ripe plum tomatoes: sliced for freshness and juiciness
• Tzatziki sauce: provides creamy cooling contrast
• Pita bread: warm and pliable for wrapping or serving
• Lemon slices: for a final zesty touch

Instructions

Marinating the Chicken:

Prepare the marinade by whisking olive oil, lemon juice, chopped garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl until combined. Place the diced chicken in a large resealable bag or bowl and pour the marinade over it. Massage the marinade into the chicken until every piece is coated evenly. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for 45 minutes to let the flavors infuse.

Preparing the Skewers:

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers leaving a small gap between each piece to ensure even cooking.

Grilling Method:

Heat your grill to medium high and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 8 to 10 minutes. Turn them occasionally so all sides get that beautiful golden char. If you have extra marinade, brush it once onto the chicken while grilling but discard the leftover marinade after use. After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute and the internal temperature to rise to safe levels.

Oven Baking Method:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius. Arrange the chicken pieces spaced evenly on a greased baking sheet placed on the top rack. Bake for 5 to 7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Let the meat rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep it juicy.

Assembly and Serving:

Warm the pita bread briefly on the grill or in the oven to make it soft and pliable. Fill it with the grilled chicken, tomato slices, thinly sliced red onion, and generous dollops of tzatziki sauce. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness. Serve with fresh fries and a Greek salad or on a bed of rice or bulgur with herbs for a heartier meal.

The oregano and lemon marinade is my favorite part because it transports me right back to that sunny afternoon in Crete when I first tasted souvlaki from a local taverna. It is amazing how simple ingredients come together to create a dish that is both homey and exotic.

Storage tips

Store any leftover cooked chicken souvlaki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to preserve moisture. If you wrapped your souvlaki in pita with vegetables, it is best assembled fresh to avoid sogginess.

Ingredient substitutions

If you do not have dried oregano use fresh oregano doubled in quantity or substitute with thyme for a slightly different herbal note. Chicken thighs can replace breasts if you prefer a juicier texture. Greek yogurt can substitute store bought tzatziki with the addition of cucumber, garlic, dill, and lemon.

Serving suggestions

Try serving souvlaki alongside traditional Greek sides such as horiatiki salad or lemon roasted potatoes. For a twist, serve it on a bed of couscous or crispy lettuce cups for a low carb version. A cold glass of white wine or a light beer pairs beautifully with this dish.

Bright, herby Greek chicken souvlaki is easy to make and perfect for weeknight grilling or oven cooking. Serve with warm pita, tomatoes, red onion, and tzatziki for an authentic taste.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ What is the best cut of chicken for this dish?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well as they absorb the marinade and cook evenly.

→ How long should the chicken marinate?

Marinate the chicken for at least 45 minutes to an hour to allow the flavors to deeply infuse.

→ Can I grill the chicken on wooden skewers?

Yes, soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning during grilling.

→ Is oven baking a good alternative to grilling?

Absolutely, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes per side for a juicy and flavorful result.

→ What are suitable side dishes to serve alongside?

Traditional options include warm pita, fresh tomato and onion slices, tzatziki, Greek salad, and fries.

→ Can the marinade be adjusted for spicier flavor?

Yes, adding chili flakes or finely chopped jalapeño to the marinade will add a spicy kick.