Tender, juicy chicken grilled to perfection on skewers, marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and herbs — Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a timeless Mediterranean classic. It’s bursting with flavor and boasts a perfect char from the grill, offering both comfort and freshness in each bite. Pair it with a vibrant Greek salad or wrap it in warm pita with tzatziki, and you’ve got a meal that feels like a Mediterranean vacation on a plate.

What sets this dish apart is its simplicity and versatility. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer at a summer gathering or turning it into a hearty dinner, souvlaki has an undeniable appeal. The marinade not only infuses the meat with flavor but also keeps it incredibly moist, while the quick cook time makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Flavor-packed and healthy: A rich marinade ensures every bite is loaded with Mediterranean essence.
Quick and easy: Prep ahead of time and grill in under 15 minutes.
Versatile: Serve it as a main dish, in wraps, or on salads.
Family-friendly: Even picky eaters love the juicy, grilled goodness.
Great for meal prep: Marinate and freeze the chicken in advance for a stress-free cooking day.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Their Importance)

Before diving into the magic of Greek Chicken Souvlaki, set yourself up for success with the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need and why each item matters:

Cutting Board & Sharp Knife: These are your go-to for trimming and cubing the chicken evenly. A sharp knife ensures clean cuts, preventing the meat from tearing and helping it cook uniformly.
Mixing Bowl (Glass or Stainless Steel): Essential for whisking together your marinade ingredients and tossing the chicken evenly in the flavorful mix.
Measuring Spoons and Cups: Accuracy matters when balancing the acidity, herbs, and oils in the marinade.
Bamboo or Metal Skewers: Skewers are the soul of souvlaki. Bamboo skewers need to be soaked in water (30 minutes) to prevent burning, while metal skewers are reusable and heat evenly.
Grill, Grill Pan, or Cast Iron Skillet: A hot grilling surface is key for getting those irresistible char marks and sealing in the marinade.
Tongs: These allow you to flip skewers easily and safely without piercing the meat and losing juices.
Food Thermometer (optional): Ensures chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) without overcooking.

Preparation Tips

Marinate Overnight (if possible): While even 2 hours will do wonders, marinating overnight intensifies the flavor and tenderizes the chicken beautifully.
Uniform Cubes: Cut chicken into equal-sized pieces (about 1.5-inch cubes) to ensure even cooking.
Dry Before Grilling: Pat marinated chicken pieces with a paper towel just slightly before grilling—this helps achieve that perfect sear without steaming.
Soak Bamboo Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them for at least 30 minutes to avoid scorching on the grill.
Oil the Grill or Pan: Lightly oil your grill grates or skillet before placing the skewers to prevent sticking and enhance browning.
Don’t Overcrowd: Leave slight gaps between the chicken cubes on skewers to allow heat to circulate and ensure even cooking.

Ingredients for This Greek Chicken Souvlaki

To make authentic and flavorful Greek Chicken Souvlaki, here’s everything you’ll need:

For the Chicken Marinade:

1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
3 tablespoons olive oil – Rich base that helps the marinade cling and promotes browning
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice – Adds brightness and tenderizes the chicken
2 teaspoons red wine vinegar – Enhances depth and gives a mild tang
3 cloves garlic, minced – Adds punch and aroma
2 teaspoons dried oregano – The signature Greek herb, earthy and aromatic
1 teaspoon dried thyme – Optional, but enhances herbaceous notes
Salt, to taste (about 1 teaspoon) – Essential for flavor balance
Black pepper, to taste (about ½ teaspoon) – Adds mild heat
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – For a gentle kick

Optional Garnish & Serving:

Chopped fresh parsley – For a fresh pop of green
Lemon wedges – For squeezing just before serving
Sliced red onions and tomatoes – Classic accompaniments
Lettuce or mixed greens – To serve on the side or in a wrap
Tzatziki sauce – Creamy, cool, and essential if you’re making wraps
Pita bread or flatbread – To serve as wraps or on the side

This combination of ingredients brings together traditional Greek flavors in a beautifully balanced way. The key is in the marinade—herby, lemony, and garlicky, just as it should be.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, thyme (if using), salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Make sure it’s well combined so that all flavors distribute evenly.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the cubed chicken to the bowl and toss thoroughly to coat each piece. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the contents to a zip-top bag. Refrigerate and marinate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor absorption.

Step 3: Skewer the Chicken

If using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread 5–6 pieces of marinated chicken onto each skewer, leaving small gaps between pieces to allow even cooking.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill or Pan

Preheat your grill, grill pan, or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking and enhance searing.

Step 5: Grill the Souvlaki

Place skewers on the hot grill or pan. Cook for about 10–12 minutes total, turning every few minutes to ensure all sides get charred and the chicken cooks evenly. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Rest and Garnish

Remove the skewers from the heat and let them rest for 3–5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for squeezing.

Step 7: Assemble or Serve

Serve the souvlaki over a bed of lettuce, in warm pita with tzatziki and fresh vegetables, or alongside rice and roasted potatoes. Enjoy it hot, juicy, and bursting with Mediterranean charm.

Notes

Chicken Thighs vs. Breasts: Thighs are juicier and more forgiving, especially on the grill, while breasts cook faster and offer a leaner option. Either cut works wonderfully.
Marinating Time: Minimum of 2 hours is acceptable, but overnight gives the best results in both flavor and tenderness.
Versatility: The marinade works well with pork, shrimp, or even tofu for vegetarian adaptations.
Cooking Methods: Souvlaki can be grilled outdoors, on a stovetop grill pan, or even broiled in the oven if needed.
Meal Prep Tip: You can freeze the chicken in its marinade for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
Herbs: If using fresh oregano, double the quantity compared to dried.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Skipping the Marinade Time: A rushed marinade won’t let the flavors penetrate the meat. Plan ahead for deeper flavor.
Overcrowding the Skewers: Packing pieces too tightly prevents proper cooking and browning on all sides.
Not Preheating the Grill or Pan: This results in sticking and pale, unappetizing chicken. A hot surface ensures caramelization and grill marks.
Undercooking or Overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to hit the safe zone of 165°F (74°C). Undercooked is risky; overcooked becomes dry.
Skipping Rest Time After Cooking: Resting allows juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
Not Drying the Chicken Before Grilling: Too much moisture on the surface will steam the meat instead of searing it.

What to Serve With Greek Chicken Souvlaki?

Greek Chicken Souvlaki is wonderfully versatile, pairing beautifully with a wide array of Mediterranean-inspired sides. Whether you’re planning a casual dinner or a festive spread, these options will elevate your plate.

8 Recommended Pairings:

Tzatziki Sauce
A classic Greek yogurt-based dip with cucumber, garlic, and dill—creamy, tangy, and perfect for dipping or drizzling over your chicken.
Warm Pita Bread or Flatbread
Use it to wrap the chicken into handheld souvlaki sandwiches or simply as a side to soak up any juices and sauce.
Greek Salad
Crisp cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese tossed with olive oil and oregano—refreshing and bold.
Lemon Herb Rice Pilaf
Light and citrusy rice with hints of garlic and parsley complements the savory grilled flavors.
Roasted Potatoes with Lemon and Oregano
Crispy on the outside and tender inside, these Greek-style potatoes are seasoned to mirror the chicken’s marinade.
Grilled Vegetables
Zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and red onion grilled to smoky perfection—simple, colorful, and healthy.
Hummus or Baba Ganoush
These creamy dips add depth to your spread and are ideal for scooping with pita or topping the chicken.
Pickled Red Onions or Cucumber Salad
A tangy, crunchy counterpoint that adds brightness and texture to the dish.

Storage Instructions

Greek Chicken Souvlaki stores very well, making it an ideal candidate for meal prep or leftovers.

Refrigeration: Store cooked chicken souvlaki in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Keep any sauces or sides like tzatziki or salad stored separately for freshness.
Freezing (Before or After Cooking):
- Before Cooking: Marinated, uncooked chicken can be frozen in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before grilling.
- After Cooking: Cooked souvlaki can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the oven or skillet to retain juiciness.
Reheating Tips: Use a skillet over medium heat or wrap the chicken in foil and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–12 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it may dry out the meat.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Based on 4 Servings)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~280 kcal
Protein	~30g
Carbohydrates	~2g (mostly from marinade)
Fat	~17g (mostly from olive oil)
Saturated Fat	~3g
Fiber	0g
Sugar	0g
Sodium	~320mg

Note: Nutritional values can vary depending on the exact ingredients used, cut of chicken, and amount of marinade absorbed.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are often juicier and more forgiving on the grill. They also absorb the marinade beautifully, offering a richer flavor.

2. Do I have to grill the chicken, or can I use the oven?

While grilling adds that signature char, you can also broil the skewers in the oven on high heat for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway through. A stovetop grill pan or cast iron skillet also works great.

3. How long should I marinate the chicken?

2 hours is the minimum, but for best results, aim for 8 hours or overnight. The longer the marination, the more flavorful and tender your souvlaki will be.

4. What’s the best way to prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill?

Make sure the grill or pan is fully preheated and lightly oiled before placing the skewers. Also, avoid moving them too soon—let a sear form before flipping.

5. Can I make Greek Chicken Souvlaki in advance?

Yes! Marinate ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. You can also cook the skewers in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer, then reheat when ready to serve.

6. Is souvlaki the same as gyros?

Not quite. Souvlaki is grilled meat on skewers, while gyros are typically made from meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie and thinly sliced. However, both are popular in wraps with similar toppings.

7. What’s the internal temperature for cooked chicken?

Chicken is safely cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check, especially with thicker cuts.

8. Can I make this recipe dairy-free and gluten-free?

Yes. The marinade is naturally dairy-free and gluten-free. Just be sure to serve it with appropriate sides—like gluten-free pita or a fresh salad—and avoid dairy-based sauces unless using alternatives.

Conclusion

Greek Chicken Souvlaki is everything you want in a meal—flavorful, easy to prepare, and delightfully versatile. With tender chunks of marinated chicken kissed by the grill, this dish brings the sunshine and savory soul of the Mediterranean to your table. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, it’s guaranteed to impress. And with endless serving and prep options, it’s bound to become a regular in your kitchen lineup.