Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Skewers

Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Skewers are a Greek-inspired delight featuring marinated chunks of chicken grilled to perfection. Served with fresh vegetables, pita bread, or creamy dips, this dish is both simple and impressive, ideal for summer cookouts or weeknight dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings the authentic flavors of Mediterranean cuisine to your table. The marinade infuses the chicken with zesty lemon, garlic, and herbs, resulting in juicy, flavorful bites. It’s quick to prepare, incredibly versatile, and pairs wonderfully with salads, rice, or wraps.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Garlic, minced
• Dried oregano
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Wooden or metal skewers
• Optional: tzatziki sauce, pita bread, cucumber slices, red onions

directions

1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper to make the marinade.
2. Add the chicken pieces and mix to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 4 hours.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
4. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.
5. Grill the chicken skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly charred.
6. Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
7. Serve with tzatziki, pita bread, and fresh vegetables.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Marinating time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 12 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 22 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Souvlaki: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes to the marinade.
• Herb Upgrade: Use fresh oregano, thyme, or rosemary for stronger aroma.
• Citrus Blend: Mix lemon juice with orange juice for a sweeter twist.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or halloumi.
• Oven Method: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze uncooked marinated chicken for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a pan or oven to retain moisture; avoid microwaving to prevent drying out.

FAQs

What is souvlaki?

Souvlaki is a popular Greek dish consisting of small pieces of meat grilled on skewers, often served with pita, sauces, and vegetables.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, making them a great choice for souvlaki.

Can I bake the skewers instead of grilling?

Yes, baking is a good alternative. Use a hot oven and turn the skewers halfway through.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 1 hour is recommended, but up to 4 hours will deepen the flavor.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken a day in advance and grill it when ready to serve.

What sides go well with souvlaki?

Serve with Greek salad, rice pilaf, tzatziki, pita bread, or roasted vegetables.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, the chicken skewers are gluten-free. Be sure to check sauces and sides for gluten content.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Avoid overcooking and use thighs if you want extra juiciness. Let the chicken rest before serving.

Can I use metal skewers?

Yes, metal skewers are reusable and ideal for grilling. No soaking is required.

What’s the best dip to serve with souvlaki?

Tzatziki is the classic choice, but hummus or garlic sauce also pair beautifully.

Conclusion

Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Skewers are a flavorful, easy-to-make recipe perfect for casual dining or festive gatherings. With minimal ingredients and maximum taste, they offer a taste of Greece from your backyard grill. This dish is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.

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