Greek Chicken Souvlaki - knedir Recipes

Juicy, zesty, and bursting with Mediterranean flavor, Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a classic that never disappoints. Tender chunks of marinated chicken are grilled to golden perfection, infused with the essence of lemon, garlic, and oregano. Whether you’re prepping for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a summer BBQ, this recipe brings effortless flavor to the table.

You can serve it straight off the skewer, tucked in warm pita with tzatziki, or plated over a vibrant Greek salad. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, this dish celebrates the beauty of simple, wholesome food. The versatility of souvlaki makes it a must-have in your culinary rotation.

Full Recipe:

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken (tenders, breasts, or thighs)
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
Juice of 1 large lemon
6 garlic cloves, minced
1.5 Tbsp dried oregano
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper

Directions:

Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and place them in a zip-top bag.
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Pour marinade over the chicken in the bag. Squeeze out excess air, seal, and massage to combine.
Refrigerate and marinate for at least 2–3 hours, or overnight for best flavor.
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.
Choose your cooking method:
- Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill skewers for 8–10 minutes, turning halfway.
- Oven: Preheat to 450°F. Bake skewers on a wire rack for 15 minutes, then broil for 2–3 minutes for a charred finish.
- Stovetop: Heat 2 Tbsp olive oil in a skillet. Cook skewers 6–8 minutes per side.
Transfer to a serving plate and let rest for 3 minutes before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Marinate Time: 3+ hours | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 3 hours 25 minutes
Kcal: 253 kcal per skewer | Servings: 10 skewers

Recipe Overview

Greek Chicken Souvlaki is the epitome of simple Mediterranean cooking—succulent, marinated chicken grilled to perfection and bursting with lemon, garlic, and oregano. Whether wrapped in pita bread, plated over a bed of fresh greens, or served with fluffy lemon rice, this dish offers a mouthwatering experience that feels both rustic and refreshingly light.

Often served as part of a mezze spread or enjoyed on its own as a main course, souvlaki is an easy go-to for summer BBQs, healthy meal prepping, or quick weeknight dinners. Its minimal ingredient list makes it accessible, but the result is anything but ordinary. There’s something magical about how the marinade penetrates the chicken, transforming it into a juicy, flavorful bite that’s hard to resist.

History and Origin

Souvlaki has deep roots in Greek culinary tradition, tracing back thousands of years. In fact, archaeologists have unearthed grilling skewers from ancient Santorini dating back to the Bronze Age—proof that Greeks have been enjoying skewered meats for millennia. The word “souvlaki” itself comes from the Medieval Greek word souvla, meaning “skewer,” and the diminutive souvlaki literally translates to “little skewer.”

Historically, souvlaki was a practical way for shepherds and travelers to cook meat over an open fire. As Greek cuisine evolved, so did this beloved dish. While lamb and pork were more traditional in ancient times, chicken souvlaki has become immensely popular in modern-day Greece, especially for health-conscious eaters looking for a lean protein option.

In today’s bustling Greek cities and island tavernas, souvlaki is both street food and sit-down fare. You’ll find it served wrapped in pita with tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki sauce or plated with sides like rice, roasted vegetables, and Greek salad. Despite its humble origins, souvlaki continues to be a star of Hellenic cuisine and a favorite worldwide.

Variations and Adaptations

Though chicken is a popular choice, souvlaki is incredibly adaptable. In Greece, pork remains the most common meat used for souvlaki, offering a slightly richer, juicier bite. Lamb is another traditional alternative, prized for its bold flavor, especially in festive or holiday settings.

Modern adaptations abound. For a vegetarian twist, grilled halloumi or marinated mushrooms can be skewered and served in the same style, creating a plant-based version without compromising on taste. In seafood-rich regions, you might even find shrimp souvlaki on the menu, usually paired with lighter marinades featuring dill and lemon zest.

Even the seasoning can vary slightly depending on the region. While oregano, lemon, and garlic are the holy trinity in most souvlaki marinades, some households add paprika, rosemary, or even yogurt for a tangier, tenderizing effect.

Internationally, souvlaki has inspired fusion dishes, from souvlaki tacos to rice bowls topped with Mediterranean toppings. These creative spins maintain the essence of souvlaki—grilled, marinated chunks of protein—while adding fresh cultural perspectives.

Nutritional Information

Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a nutritionally balanced dish that fits beautifully into a variety of healthy diets. A single skewer (approximately 150–170g of marinated and cooked chicken) contains around 250–270 calories, making it a moderate-calorie option that’s packed with protein.

Protein: With roughly 22–25g of protein per skewer, it’s a fantastic muscle-building meal for athletes or anyone looking to increase their protein intake.
Fat: Thanks to the use of extra virgin olive oil, you’re getting heart-healthy monounsaturated fats instead of saturated or trans fats. The total fat per serving averages around 12–17g.
Carbohydrates: Essentially negligible, especially if you’re serving it without pita bread or rice. This makes it ideal for low-carb or keto diets.
Micronutrients: Lemon juice adds a small vitamin C boost, and oregano provides trace amounts of vitamin K and antioxidants. Garlic contributes allicin, known for its immune-supporting properties.

This dish is gluten-free, dairy-free, and can easily be made Whole30 or paleo compliant with the right pairings.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

One of the best parts about Greek Chicken Souvlaki is its versatility when it comes to serving. You can dress it up for a dinner party or enjoy it casually for lunch. Here are some favorite ways to serve it:

In a Pita Wrap: This is the most classic option. Add sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce. Wrap it all in a warm pita for the perfect street-style Greek meal.
Over Greek Lemon Rice: Spoon some fluffy lemon rice onto a plate, top with a couple of skewers, and drizzle with extra marinade or a squeeze of lemon for a hearty yet clean dinner.
On a Salad Bowl: Turn it into a low-carb power bowl with romaine lettuce, kalamata olives, feta cheese, cucumber ribbons, and red wine vinaigrette.
With a Mezze Platter: Pair your skewers with dips like hummus, baba ganoush, or melitzanosalata, along with olives and grilled veggies.
Wine Pairing: A crisp Greek white wine like Assyrtiko is ideal. For red wine lovers, try a light-bodied Xinomavro or a Pinot Noir.
Side Dishes: Roasted potatoes with lemon and oregano, grilled eggplant, or a refreshing tabbouleh salad round out the meal beautifully.

Tips and Tricks for Success

Even though it’s a simple recipe, there are a few key tips that can make your souvlaki absolutely perfect:

Marinate Longer: While two hours is the minimum, overnight marination delivers deeper flavor and tenderness.
Equal-Sized Pieces: Cut your chicken into evenly-sized chunks to ensure uniform cooking, avoiding some pieces drying out while others remain undercooked.
Soak Wooden Skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning on the grill or in the oven.
Don’t Skip Resting Time: Let the cooked chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain the juices and improves the overall texture.
High Heat Cooking: Souvlaki is best cooked over medium-high to high heat. You want that beautiful sear without drying out the meat.
Batch Cooking for Meal Prep: Make a double batch and use leftovers in wraps, salads, or even omelets throughout the week.

Potential Health Benefits

The ingredients in Greek Chicken Souvlaki aren’t just flavorful—they’re also packed with nutrients that support overall health:

Chicken: A lean protein that supports muscle growth, metabolism, and satiety.
Garlic: Rich in allicin, garlic has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It’s also associated with cardiovascular benefits.
Lemon Juice: Provides vitamin C, which helps boost immunity and aids in iron absorption.
Oregano: This herb is surprisingly rich in antioxidants and may have antibacterial effects.
Olive Oil: A staple of the Mediterranean diet, it’s known for supporting heart health and reducing inflammation due to its monounsaturated fats and polyphenols.

Together, these ingredients align beautifully with diets aimed at supporting weight management, heart health, and even metabolic health. It’s no wonder the Mediterranean way of eating is consistently ranked among the healthiest globally.

Conclusion

Greek Chicken Souvlaki is more than just grilled meat on a stick—it’s a celebration of Greek culinary heritage, a symphony of fresh, bold flavors, and a flexible dish that fits nearly every lifestyle and occasion. Whether you’re making it for a summer backyard feast, a wholesome family dinner, or prepping lunches for the week, this dish offers satisfaction, nutrition, and unmistakable Mediterranean charm.

Next time you’re craving something flavorful but fuss-free, give this souvlaki a go. Your tastebuds—and your dinner guests—will thank you.