Name: Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1/4 cup lemon juice; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 red onion, cut into chunks; 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks; 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks; Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Jump to Recipe

If there’s one dish that captures the sunny flavors and vibrancy of Greece, it’s the Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe! Imagine juicy, marinated chicken, lightly charred from the grill and kissed by a zesty blend of lemon, garlic, and herbs. Paired with colorful peppers and onions, each bite delivers a delightful combination of textures and aromas that transport you straight to a taverna by the Aegean Sea. Whether for a summer barbecue or an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe brings big Mediterranean flavor to your table with minimal fuss.

Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Part of the beauty of the Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient is carefully chosen to create a harmonious blend of bold flavor and fresh color. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a tip or insight for each one to help you build the perfect skewer!

Chicken Breast: Tender, boneless, and skinless chicken breast gives you juicy bites and cooks up beautifully on skewers.
Olive Oil: Use a good-quality extra virgin olive oil to infuse the chicken with rich, robust Mediterranean flavor.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the marinade and helps tenderize the chicken for melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds aromatic depth and a classic Greek touch you don’t want to skip.
Dried Oregano: The quintessential Greek herb, oregano lends an earthy, herby backbone to both the marinade and finished dish.
Dried Thyme: A pinch of thyme works hand-in-hand with oregano, offering a gentle floral note and extra dimension.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the vibrant flavors in the marinade.
Red Onion: Chunks of onion caramelize beautifully on the grill and add a bit of sweetness with every bite.
Red Bell Pepper: The red peppers not only add gorgeous color, but their natural sweetness balances the tangy marinade.
Green Bell Pepper: Green peppers give a subtle bitterness and crunch, rounding out the flavors on each skewer.
Wooden Skewers: Soak them for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill!

How to Make Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Step 1: Make the Marinade

Start by whisking together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. This marinade is the secret to that mouthwatering souvlaki flavor—it not only infuses the chicken with herbs and citrus, but also helps keep everything juicy as it cooks.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add your chicken chunks into the bowl with the marinade, tossing thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated. Cover the bowl tightly and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least one hour. If you have the time, marinate overnight for even more incredible flavor!

Step 3: Prepare the Skewers

While your chicken marinates, soak your wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes—this simple step keeps them from burning. Once ready, thread the chicken chunks onto the skewers, alternating with pieces of red onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper for a pop of color and flavor on each bite.

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place your skewers on the grates and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally. The chicken should be cooked through (no longer pink inside) and the veggies should be nicely charred and tender. The aroma alone is absolutely irresistible!

Step 5: Serve Hot and Enjoy!

Slide those golden, glistening skewers onto a platter and serve immediately. I love pairing my Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe with a generous side of cool, creamy tzatziki sauce—it’s the finishing touch that brings everything together beautifully.

How to Serve Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Garnishes

To really make your souvlaki shine, sprinkle it with a shower of fresh chopped parsley or cilantro right before serving. A final squeeze of lemon brings out all the flavors, and a dusting of smoked paprika or crumbled feta cheese never hurts for that extra wow-factor!

Side Dishes

The Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe pairs well with a whole range of classic Greek sides—think warm pita bread, Greek salad brimming with tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives, or roasted potatoes. A big scoop of tzatziki for dipping is a must, and even a bowl of rice pilaf if you want to turn it into a hearty meal.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining, try turning your souvlaki into a DIY platter. Arrange the skewers alongside bowls of chopped veggies, different sauces, and fresh breads so everyone can build their own wraps. Or, serve the chicken straight off the skewer for a rustic, Mediterranean feast!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover souvlaki (lucky you!), let everything cool to room temperature. Store the chicken and veggies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They’re perfect for next-day salads or wraps!

Freezing

To freeze, simply remove the chicken and vegetables from the skewers and pack them tightly in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They’ll keep well for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight.

Reheating

Reheat your souvlaki in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 10 minutes. For best texture, you can also give them a quick toss on a hot skillet or briefly reheat on the grill. Just avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken a bit rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and a bit more forgiving on the grill. Just be sure to trim excess fat and adjust the cooking time if needed.

Do I have to grill the Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe outdoors?

Nope! If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, a grill pan or broiler works wonders. Just make sure you get a good char for that authentic flavor.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

One hour is the minimum for the flavors to penetrate, but if you want a truly standout Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe, marinate overnight. The results are noticeably more flavorful and juicy.

What can I use instead of wooden skewers?

Metal skewers are a great reusable alternative and don’t need soaking. You can also cook the marinated chicken and veggies in a grill basket if you’re in a pinch.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time for parties?

Definitely! Marinate the chicken the night before, then assemble the skewers the morning of your party. Keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to grill and serve hot from the grates.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so heartwarming about sharing a platter of homemade souvlaki, and this Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe truly makes it magical and memorable. Gather some friends, fire up the grill, and let these beautiful flavors sweep you away to Greece—one skewer at a time!