Easy Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Recipe to Try

If you’re craving a delicious meal that’s bursting with Mediterranean flavors but still quick and easy to prepare, then this Grilled Chicken Souvlaki recipe is exactly what you need. Juicy and tender chunks of marinated chicken grilled to perfection make this dish a weeknight favorite or a perfect crowd-pleaser for summer barbecues. With simple, fresh ingredients that you probably already have on hand, this recipe lets you enjoy authentic Greek-inspired flavors without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The marinade of lemon, garlic, and herbs infuses every bite with bright, savory notes.
• Healthy and Protein-Packed: Lean chicken breast combined with fresh ingredients makes this meal nutritious and satisfying.
• Versatile and Customizable: Works great as a main dish, in wraps, or over salads.
• Perfect for Grilling Season: Brings backyard barbecues to life with authentic Mediterranean vibes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients create the foundation for a classic, mouthwatering Grilled Chicken Souvlaki. Each component plays a key role, from tenderizing the meat to delivering vibrant flavor and beautiful color.

• Chicken Breast: Skinless, boneless pieces, cut into bite-sized chunks for easy grilling and even cooking.
• Olive Oil: Adds moisture and richness, helping the marinade penetrate the meat.
• Lemon Juice: Provides a zesty brightness and tenderizes the chicken for optimal juiciness.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives a robust aromatic punch to the marinade.
• Dried Oregano: Classic Greek herb that complements the lemon and garlic perfectly.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
• Wooden Skewers: Soaked in water beforehand to prevent burning while grilling your chicken chunks evenly.

Variations for Grilled Chicken Souvlaki

This recipe is incredibly adaptable. Whether you want to add your favorite flavors or need an option for dietary modifications, these simple variations let you make it your own in just a few tweaks.

• Greek Yogurt Marinade: Swap olive oil for Greek yogurt for a creamier texture and tangy flavor boost.
• Herb Mix: Use fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or mint instead of dried oregano for an aromatic twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a bit of heat.
• Vegetable Skewers: Thread cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions alongside the chicken for a colorful and nutritious combo.
• Chicken Thighs: Substitute chicken breast with thighs if you prefer more tender, juicy meat.

How to Make Grilled Chicken Souvlaki

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This simple mixture will infuse the chicken with vibrant, authentic Greek flavors.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure each piece is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to really soak in; if you have more time, marinate up to 2 hours for extra tenderness.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill, aiming for medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.

Step 4: Thread the Chicken onto Skewers

Remove chicken from the marinade and thread the pieces evenly onto the skewers. This helps the chicken cook evenly and makes them easy to flip on the grill.

Step 5: Grill the Chicken

Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the skewers from the grill, let them rest for a couple of minutes, then serve with your favorite sides and garnishes for the full Grilled Chicken Souvlaki experience.

Pro Tips for Making Grilled Chicken Souvlaki

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and garlic make a noticeable difference in flavor compared to bottled alternatives.
• Don’t Overcrowd Skewers: Leave a little space between chicken pieces to ensure even cooking and prevent steaming.
• Preheat the Grill Properly: A hot grill helps create those irresistible char lines and locks in juices.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Overcooked chicken can become dry quickly, so watch carefully and test doneness with a thermometer.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the meat rest for a few minutes off the heat to keep it juicy and tender.

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Souvlaki

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes elevate the dish to the next level. Try topping with chopped parsley, a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese, or a wedge of lemon for an added burst of flavor and color.

Side Dishes

Complement your Grilled Chicken Souvlaki with classic Mediterranean sides like warm pita bread, tangy tzatziki sauce, Greek salad, or roasted vegetables for a balanced and satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn the skewers into handheld wraps by layering the grilled chicken, fresh veggies, and sauce inside a soft pita pocket or flatbread. Alternatively, serve the chicken over a bed of rice or quinoa for a hearty bowl meal that’s as delicious as it is colorful.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Grilled Chicken Souvlaki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps preserve the flavors while keeping the meat tender and ready to enjoy again.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked grilled chicken skewers by wrapping them tightly in foil or placing them in freezer-safe bags. Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, use a grill, oven, or stovetop pan to warm the chicken gently, ensuring it doesn’t dry out; adding a splash of water or covering with foil helps retain moisture during reheating.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Pork, lamb, and turkey work well for souvlaki and can be substituted following similar marinating and grilling steps.

Do I need to soak wooden skewers before grilling?

Yes, soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning or catching fire on the grill, ensuring safe cooking.

What if I don’t have a grill?

No problem! You can cook the souvlaki under a broiler or on a stovetop grill pan — just watch the cooking times closely.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?

Marinating isn’t mandatory, but it enhances flavor and tenderness significantly, making your Grilled Chicken Souvlaki much more delicious.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you serve it with gluten-free sides like rice or gluten-free pita bread.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Chicken Souvlaki recipe hits all the right notes: fast, fresh, flavorful, and fun to make. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or enjoy a simple, satisfying dinner, this dish brings the taste of the Mediterranean straight to your plate with minimal effort. So grab those skewers and start grilling—you’re going to love every juicy, lemony bite!

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