Greek Chicken Souvlaki (with Tzatziki & Pita)

Cuisine: Greek / Mediterranean
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Marinating Time: 2–4 hours (or overnight for best flavor)
Cooking Time: 15–20 minutes
Servings: 4

🌿 Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 ½ lbs (700 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 teaspoons dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

For Serving:

• Warm pita bread (4–6 pieces)

• Sliced red onion

• Tomato wedges

• Cucumber slices

• Fresh parsley or mint

• Lemon wedges

Optional Sauce:

• 1 cup Greek tzatziki (see Recipe 3 above)

🔥 Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade
   In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme until emulsified. The aroma will already have that distinctive Greek zest — bright and herby.

2. Marinate the Chicken
   Add the chicken cubes to the bowl, tossing well to coat each piece evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight. The longer marination infuses the chicken with Mediterranean flavors, ensuring tenderness and juiciness when grilled.

3. Prepare the Skewers
   If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece for even cooking.

4. Grill the Souvlaki
   Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates.
   Grill skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and slightly charred, and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

   Oven Option:
   Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place skewers on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 18–20 minutes, turning halfway through. Broil for the last 2 minutes for a smoky char.

5. Serve the Souvlaki
   Arrange the skewers on a platter, sprinkle with a touch of extra oregano and lemon juice, and serve with warm pita bread, fresh vegetables, and a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce.

🍋 Serving Suggestions

• Wrap grilled chicken pieces in pita with onion, tomato, and tzatziki for a classic Greek gyro-style meal.

• Pair with Greek salad (Recipe 4) or lemon potatoes for a complete Mediterranean plate.

• Add a side of hummus or baba ghanoush for variety.

💡 Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor: Add a splash of red wine vinegar to the marinade.

• Want smoky flavor without a grill? Use a cast-iron skillet and a pinch of smoked paprika.

• Vegetarian option: Substitute chicken with halloumi cubes or mixed vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms).

• Meal prep: Store leftover grilled chicken in the fridge up to 3 days — perfect for wraps or salads.

🇬🇷 Mediterranean Note

Souvlaki (σουβλάκι), meaning “little skewers”, is one of Greece’s most iconic street foods. Traditionally made with pork or chicken, it’s marinated in olive oil, lemon, garlic, and oregano — ingredients symbolic of the Greek countryside. In the U.S., Greek chicken souvlaki has become a favorite for backyard grilling and healthy meal prep. Its balance of protein, zest, and fresh herbs captures the Mediterranean spirit: simple, wholesome, and bursting with sunshine.