This Chicken Souvlaki recipe features tender, juicy chicken marinated in a flavorful blend of oregano, garlic, lemon, and olive oil, then grilled to perfection. Served with pita or a side salad, this Mediterranean dish is both simple and delicious. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just looking for a quick and healthy dinner, this dish is sure to satisfy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor-packed – The marinade, filled with oregano, garlic, lemon, and a hint of chili flakes, gives the chicken bold, Mediterranean flavors.
- Healthy and nutritious – With lean chicken and fresh ingredients, this recipe is full of protein and healthy fats.
- Quick and easy – Ready in 25 minutes with minimal prep, perfect for busy weeknights or a weekend grill session.
- Customizable – Serve with pita bread, rice, or a Greek salad depending on your preference or dietary needs.
- Perfect for meal prep – Make extra and enjoy as leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Marinade:
- 3 tbsp fresh oregano (or 1.5 tbsp dried oregano) – The key herb for the souvlaki’s Mediterranean flavor.
- 1 tbsp garlic, minced – For that punch of aromatic flavor.
- 3 tbsp olive oil – Adds richness and helps tenderize the chicken.
- ¼ cup lemon juice (from about 1 lemon) – A zesty citrus touch that brightens the dish.
- ½ tsp cumin powder – Adds depth and a warm, earthy flavor.
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped – For a fresh, herby garnish.
- ½ tsp chili flakes – For a little heat and spice.
- ½ tsp salt – For seasoning.
- ¼ tsp black pepper (freshly cracked) – To enhance the flavors.
Optional:
- Grilled pita – To serve alongside the chicken for a complete meal.
- Oil spray – For grilling.
Directions
1. Prepare the Marinade:
- In a bowl or sealable bag, combine oregano, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, cumin powder, parsley, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix well to combine the ingredients into a flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
- Cut the chicken into small 1-2 inch pieces and add them to the marinade.
- Coat the chicken well with the marinade, ensuring all pieces are covered.
- Cover or seal the container and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes. For maximum flavor, marinate overnight.
3. Grill the Chicken:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Skewer the marinated chicken pieces (or use a grill pan if you don’t have skewers).
- Grill the chicken for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked through and slightly charred on the outside.
4. Serve:
- Serve the grilled chicken souvlaki with pita, rice, or a fresh Greek salad.
- Garnish with extra parsley for a fresh touch.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 3
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Calories: 328 kcal per serving (excluding pita or rice)
Variations & Tips
- Vegetarian Option – Replace chicken with tofu, portobello mushrooms, or halloumi cheese for a plant-based version of souvlaki.
- Add heat – If you like extra spice, increase the amount of chili flakes or drizzle some hot sauce on top.
- Make it a wrap – Add the grilled chicken to pita bread with some tzatziki sauce and fresh veggies for a classic wrap.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm in the oven or a skillet.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used instead of thighs, but keep in mind that chicken breasts may dry out quicker. If using chicken breasts, consider marinating them for longer or using a more tender cut of chicken.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s done.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Marinate the chicken overnight and grill it when ready. This makes the recipe even quicker for busy weeknights.
Can I grill the chicken on a stovetop grill pan?
Absolutely! If you don’t have an outdoor grill, you can use a stovetop grill pan to cook the chicken. Just be sure to heat it to medium-high and cook the chicken until charred and fully cooked.
Can I serve this with other sauces?
Definitely! Tzatziki sauce, hummus, or even a spicy sriracha mayo would all be excellent accompaniments.
Conclusion
This Chicken Souvlaki recipe is packed with Mediterranean flavors and is quick and easy to make. With its juicy chicken, savory marinade, and fresh parsley garnish, it’s the perfect dish for a weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout. Whether you serve it with pita, rice, or a refreshing salad, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit! Enjoy the authentic tastes of Greek cuisine right in your own kitchen!
Print
Chicken Souvlaki
Looking for a delicious and healthy meal? This Chicken Souvlaki recipe features tender chicken marinated in a savory blend of Mediterranean spices and grilled to perfection. Serve with pita, rice, or salad for a customizable dish everyone will enjoy.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- 3 tbsp fresh oregano (or 1.5 tbsp dried oregano)
- 1 tbsp garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ cup lemon juice (from about 1 lemon)
- ½ tsp cumin powder
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ tsp chili flakes
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper (freshly cracked)
Optional:
- Grilled pita (for serving)
- Oil spray (for grilling)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Marinade:
- In a bowl or sealable bag, combine oregano, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, cumin powder, parsley, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
-
Marinate the Chicken:
- Cut the chicken into 1-2 inch pieces. Add the chicken to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes (or marinate overnight for deeper flavor).
-
Grill the Chicken:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Skewer the marinated chicken (or use a grill pan). Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and lightly charred on the outside.
-
Serve:
- Serve the grilled chicken souvlaki with pita, rice, or a fresh Greek salad. Garnish with extra parsley.
Notes
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for tofu, portobello mushrooms, or halloumi cheese.
- Add Heat: For more spice, increase the chili flakes or drizzle with hot sauce.
- Make it a Wrap: Place the grilled chicken in pita bread with tzatziki sauce and veggies for a classic wrap.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
