Greek Chicken Souvlaki Kebab is a vibrant dish bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Marinated in lemon, garlic, and herbs, it’s paired with creamy tzatziki, warm pita, and crisp salad for a meal straight out of a Greek taverna. Whether grilled or cooked indoors, it’s guaranteed to delight.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll adore this Greek Chicken Souvlaki! Juicy, flavorful chicken paired with tangy Tzatziki brings Mediterranean magic to your table. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, it’s a quick lunch or a festive dinner that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients You Will Need
Proteins: Tender chicken breasts take center stage, soaking up a flavorful marinade for a juicy, mouthwatering result.
Fresh Produce: Lemon juice adds a bright, zesty kick, while crisp cucumbers and garlic bring freshness and depth.
Dairy: Creamy Greek yogurt is the base of the tangy Tzatziki sauce, offering a cool contrast to the savory chicken.
Liquids: Olive oil and apple cider vinegar enhance both the marinade and Tzatziki sauce with richness and tang.
Homemade Greek Seasoning: A custom blend of herbs and spices ensures every bite is packed with authentic Mediterranean flavor.
Tips for the Best Greek Chicken Souvlaki
- Marinate Thoroughly: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours—overnight is even better! This step infuses the chicken with deep, robust flavors and ensures a tender texture.
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon juice elevate the dish with vibrant flavors and aromatic depth. Skip pre-packaged options for the best results.
- Skewer Smartly: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. For reusable options, opt for metal skewers, which also conduct heat for more even cooking.
- Serve with Homemade Tzatziki: A freshly made Tzatziki sauce brings a creamy, tangy balance to the savory chicken. Combine grated cucumber, garlic, dill, and thick Greek yogurt for an authentic touch.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on garnishes—fresh parsley, dill, or oregano, along with a squeeze of lemon juice, adds a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
- Pair with Vibrant Sides: Create a full Mediterranean feast by serving with Greek salad, warm pita bread, or a medley of grilled vegetables. Roasted potatoes with olive oil and oregano are another great option.
For more chicken recipes, try these Chicken Kebab and Lemon Mustard Chicken Kebab, both are mouthwatering, flavor-packed options that will take your grilling to the next level and leave everyone craving more.
Storage Advice
- Refrigerator: Store leftover chicken and tzatziki in separate airtight containers. The chicken will keep for up to 3 days, while the tzatziki stays fresh for about 2 days.
- Freezer: Marinated raw chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before grilling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cook the Souvlaki in the oven instead of grilling?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and arrange the skewers on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure even cooking. For a bit of char, broil the skewers for the last 2-3 minutes.
How can I keep the chicken from becoming dry?
To keep the chicken tender and juicy, avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Marinate the chicken thoroughly to lock in moisture and enhance flavor. If cooking in the oven, cover the skewers loosely with foil during the first half of cooking to retain moisture, then uncover for browning.
Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Equipment
- grill pan
- metal skewers
Ingredients
For the Greek Seasoning:
- 1 tsp Kosher Salt
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Dried Oregano
- 1/2 tsp Dried Basil
- 1/2 tsp Dried Onion Flakes
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
- 1/2 tsp Dried Dill Weed
- 1/2 tsp Thyme
- 1/4 tsp Ground Cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika
For the Chicken Souvlaki:
- 4 Chicken Breasts cut into 1/2-inch pieces
- Juice of 1/2 Lemon
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- Homemade Greek Seasoning
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1/2 English Cucumber peeled and shredded
- 3/4 tsp Kosher Salt
- 2 Garlic Cloves minced
- 1 tsp Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 cup Plain Greek Yogurt
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
- 1 tsp Fresh Dill minced
- 2 slices Cucumber for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare Tzatziki Sauce:
- Place shredded cucumber in a bowl and add 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Toss to combine.
- Transfer the cucumber mixture to a cheesecloth and squeeze out excess water. Ensure the cucumber is thoroughly drained.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and remaining salt.
- Add drained cucumber to the garlic mixture along with Greek yogurt, black pepper, and minced dill. Stir until well combined.
- Cover the Tzatziki sauce and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Prepare Greek Chicken Souvlaki:
- In a bowl, combine chicken breast pieces, lemon juice, olive oil, and a tablespoon of homemade Greek seasoning. Mix until chicken is evenly coated in the marinade.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 1-2 hours to allow the chicken to marinate.
3. Grill Chicken Souvlaki:
- Preheat grill or griddle pan to medium-high heat (375°F-450°F).
- Thread marinated chicken cubes onto metal skewers, leaving space between each piece.
- Place skewers on the grill or griddle and cook for 5-6 minutes per side with the lid closed. The chicken should be golden brown on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Once cooked, transfer skewers to a platter and serve warm with Tzatziki sauce and garnish with cucumber slices.
