Chicken Souvlaki is a quintessential Greek dish that brings together tender, marinated chicken, grilled to perfection with a smoky char, and served with an array of vibrant sides. The dish is traditionally made by skewering marinated chunks of chicken and grilling them over an open flame.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Chicken Souvlaki is a perfect blend of flavor, texture, and ease. What makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity and versatility. The chicken is marinated in a vibrant mix of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs—ingredients that infuse it with bright, fresh Mediterranean flavors. The grilling process adds a smoky touch, while the addition of sides like fresh veggies, tzatziki, and pita ensures that every bite is balanced with cool, creamy, and refreshing elements.

The best part? You can make it as a meal or as part of a larger spread. Whether you serve it on skewers, in a wrap, or over a salad, Chicken Souvlaki is a crowd-pleasing dish that suits any occasion. Plus, it’s a great option for those looking for a lighter, healthier meal with a ton of flavor. The marinade also works well with other proteins, making it a versatile recipe for your kitchen.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Chicken Souvlaki

Achieving the perfect Chicken Souvlaki requires just a few simple tricks to ensure your chicken is flavorful and tender every time:

1. Marinate for Longer: While 30 minutes of marinating will give the chicken great flavor, allowing it to marinate for 2–4 hours (or even overnight) will intensify the taste and make the meat extra tender.
2. Use Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: Chicken thighs are more flavorful and juicy compared to chicken breasts. They hold up better during grilling and keep the dish moist.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: If you’re using skewers, make sure to leave a little space between the pieces of chicken. This helps them cook evenly and prevents them from steaming instead of grilling.
4. Grill on High Heat: For that perfect char and crisp exterior, grill your chicken on high heat. This will lock in the juices and give the chicken a nice golden-brown color.
5. Brush with Olive Oil: While grilling, brush the chicken with olive oil to keep it moist and add an extra layer of flavor.
6. Rest Before Serving: After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute and keep the meat tender.

Variations of Chicken Souvlaki

One of the best things about Chicken Souvlaki is its versatility. You can adjust the recipe to fit your preferences or explore new flavor profiles. Here are some variations to try:

1. Lamb Souvlaki: For a traditional Greek twist, swap the chicken for lamb. Lamb works beautifully with the same marinade and offers a deeper, richer flavor that pairs perfectly with tzatziki.
2. Vegetarian Souvlaki: If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. These grill beautifully and absorb the marinade’s flavors, making for a satisfying plant-based option.
3. Spicy Chicken Souvlaki: If you love heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot paprika to the marinade for a spicy kick. You can also serve it with a spicy sauce or drizzle extra hot sauce on top.
4. Chicken Souvlaki with a Mediterranean Twist: Add some extra Mediterranean ingredients to your marinade, such as dried oregano, thyme, or rosemary. You can also mix in a little red wine vinegar for a tangy undertone.
5. Tzatziki-Free: While tzatziki is a key element of the dish, if you’re avoiding dairy or simply don’t enjoy it, swap it out for hummus or a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice for a fresh finish.

How to Serve Chicken Souvlaki

Chicken Souvlaki is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways, depending on your preferences. Here are some ideas:

1. On Skewers: For an authentic presentation, serve the chicken on skewers with grilled vegetables like onions and bell peppers. This makes for a fun and casual meal.
2. In a Pita Wrap: Serve the grilled chicken wrapped in warm pita bread along with fresh veggies like tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and lettuce. Drizzle with tzatziki or your favorite sauce for added flavor.
3. On a Salad: For a lighter meal, serve the chicken over a Greek salad with fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta cheese. Top with a simple olive oil and lemon dressing.
4. With Roasted Vegetables: Pair the chicken with roasted vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, and potatoes. The smoky flavors from the grill complement the sweetness of the roasted veggies perfectly.
5. As Part of a Mezze Platter: Serve the Chicken Souvlaki as part of a Mediterranean mezze platter alongside hummus, baba ganoush, tabbouleh, and other dips and sides. This is perfect for sharing with friends and family.

How to Store Chicken Souvlaki

Chicken Souvlaki is great for meal prep and leftovers. To store it properly:

1. Store the Chicken: Once cooked, let the chicken cool down to room temperature before storing it. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
2. Freeze for Later: If you want to make a larger batch, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it up in the oven or on the grill.
3. Marinate Ahead: If you’re preparing ahead of time, you can marinate the chicken the night before or even freeze the marinated chicken. Just make sure to thaw it before cooking.

Recipe FAQs

1. Can I make Chicken Souvlaki without a grill? Yes! If you don’t have access to a grill, you can cook the chicken in a grill pan or on a regular skillet. Just make sure to cook it over medium-high heat to get that golden, charred exterior.

2. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? While chicken breasts can work, they tend to be drier and less flavorful than thighs. If you prefer chicken breast, try not to overcook it, as it can become tough.

3. How do I know when the chicken is done? The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be fully cooked. You can use a meat thermometer to check, or simply cut into the thickest part of the chicken to ensure it’s no longer pink.

4. Can I make the marinade in advance? Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day ahead of time and store it in the fridge. This helps the flavors meld together, and it also saves time when you’re ready to cook.

5. What can I serve with Chicken Souvlaki? Chicken Souvlaki pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. You can serve it with pita bread, rice, roasted potatoes, or a Mediterranean salad. Don’t forget the tzatziki sauce for dipping!

Final Thoughts

Chicken Souvlaki is a vibrant, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dish that transports you to the Mediterranean with every bite. The combination of perfectly grilled chicken, fresh veggies, and the creamy tang of tzatziki is a match made in heaven. With its simple preparation and endless variations, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re grilling for a summer dinner, preparing a meal prep, or hosting a party, Chicken Souvlaki is guaranteed to impress. Enjoy experimenting with different marinades, sides, and sauces, and make this Mediterranean classic your own!

Try other chicken dinner recipes:

• Greek Chicken
• Chicken Schnitzel – Best Crispy
• Chicken Katsu