If you’ve ever wanted to bring a burst of Mediterranean sunshine to your dinner table, then Grilled Chicken Souvlaki is your new favorite meal. This classic Greek dish brings together tender, juicy chicken pieces marinated in fragrant herbs and spices, grilled to perfection for a smoky finish. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a flavorful dish to impress friends, Grilled Chicken Souvlaki offers a simple yet delicious way to enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean in your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy Preparation: The marinade comes together in minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
- Juicy, Flavor-Packed Chicken: Each bite bursts with the perfect balance of herbs and spices.
- Versatile Meal Option: Serve it as skewers, wraps, or salads to suit any craving.
- Healthy and Lean: Made from chicken breast or thighs, it’s a protein-rich choice you’ll feel good about.
- Perfect for Entertaining: Great for BBQs and gatherings where everyone wants a tasty, shareable dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is key to nailing the authentic flavors of Grilled Chicken Souvlaki. Each element plays an important role, from the tenderizing acidic marinade to the fresh herbs that add vibrant color and aroma.
- Chicken: Use boneless chicken breast or thighs for tender, juicy results.
- Olive Oil: A staple in Mediterranean cooking, it keeps the chicken moist and adds richness.
- Lemon Juice: Provides a bright, tangy flavor and helps tenderize the meat.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds irresistible depth and warmth.
- Dried Oregano: The signature herb that infuses the dish with classic Greek flavors.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance and balance the flavors.
- Wooden Skewers: Soaked in water to prevent burning on the grill, perfect for threading the chicken.
Variations for Grilled Chicken Souvlaki
One of the best parts about Grilled Chicken Souvlaki is how easy it is to customize depending on your preferences or what ingredients you have on hand. Feel free to experiment and make this dish uniquely yours.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the marinade for a fiery twist.
- Herb Mix-Up: Swap oregano for thyme or rosemary for a subtly different flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with marinated halloumi or grilled vegetables on skewers.
- Greek Yogurt Marinade: Mix in some yogurt for an extra creamy, tangy marinade that tenderizes beautifully.
- Low-Carb Wrap: Serve grilled chicken in lettuce leaves instead of pita for a lighter version.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Souvlaki
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and freshly cracked pepper. Whisk these together until fully blended for a fragrant marinade that will infuse deep flavor into the chicken.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Cut chicken into bite-sized chunks and place them into the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours—this step is crucial for juicy and flavorful meat.
Step 3: Thread the Chicken onto Skewers
Soak your wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Then carefully thread the marinated chicken pieces onto each skewer, leaving slight space between pieces to allow even cooking.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. When hot, lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. This ensures beautiful grill marks and even cooking.
Step 5: Grill the Chicken
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, turning carefully until the chicken is cooked through and has charred edges. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Remove skewers from the grill and let the chicken rest for a few minutes to lock in juices. Serve warm with your favorite sides or as part of a Mediterranean feast.
Pro Tips for Making Grilled Chicken Souvlaki
- Marinate Longer: For even more tender and flavorful chicken, marinate overnight in the refrigerator.
- Uniform Pieces: Cut chicken into evenly sized chunks to ensure consistent cooking throughout.
- Preheat Grates: Always ensure your grill is hot before adding the skewers to get perfect searing.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Leave space between chicken pieces on skewers for better heat circulation and grilling.
- Rest Time: Allow cooked chicken to rest 5 minutes before serving to maintain juiciness.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Souvlaki
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate the dish beautifully. Freshly chopped parsley or mint adds a pop of color and refreshing aroma. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving enhances brightness significantly.
Side Dishes
Pair Grilled Chicken Souvlaki with traditional Mediterranean sides like warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, Greek salad, or grilled vegetables. Each complements the smoky, savory chicken perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the skewers over a bed of fluffy couscous or rice for a hearty meal. For lighter fare, serve chopped chicken atop a crisp green salad. You can also turn it into a wrap with pita, veggies, and sauce for an easy-to-eat option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it ideal for quick lunches or dinners.
Freezing
For longer storage, remove chicken pieces from skewers and freeze in a suitable container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to avoid drying out the chicken. Microwaving is also an option but cover the chicken to keep moisture locked in.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast for Grilled Chicken Souvlaki?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are more forgiving and tend to stay juicier, which makes them a great option for souvlaki.
How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?
Ideally, marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for deeper flavor and tenderness, marinate overnight in the refrigerator.
Can I cook Grilled Chicken Souvlaki indoors?
Yes, a grill pan or broiler works well indoors and can deliver great results when a traditional grill isn’t available.
What can I serve with Grilled Chicken Souvlaki for a complete meal?
Serve with classic extras like tzatziki, pita bread, fresh salad, or roasted vegetables to round out the meal.
Is Grilled Chicken Souvlaki suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! It holds up well in the fridge and is easy to reheat, making it perfect for meal prepping and quick lunches.
Final Thoughts
Once you try Grilled Chicken Souvlaki, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. This simple recipe bursts with hearty flavors and healthy ingredients, perfect for any day of the week. Whether grilled outside or inside, tailored to your tastes or made classic, it’s an easy way to bring the vibrant spirit of the Mediterranean right to your home. Give it a go and make Grilled Chicken Souvlaki a staple on your table—you’re going to love every juicy, tender bite.