Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely. Chicken thighs are slightly richer and often stay even juicier during grilling.

Can I make this Chicken Souvlaki Recipe ahead of time?

Yes. Marinating the chicken overnight is actually a great way to boost flavor and save time the next day.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The chicken itself is gluten-free. Simply serve it with gluten-free pita bread or over rice and vegetables.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

A minimum of 2 hours is recommended, but overnight delivers even better flavor. Avoid marinating longer than 12 hours.

Can I bake the chicken instead?

Yes. Bake the skewers at 425°F for approximately 18 to 22 minutes, turning halfway through cooking.

Chicken Souvlaki Recipe: Irresistible 5-Step Classic

Name: Chicken Souvlaki Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 2 h 40 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken breasts (about 4), cut into 1-inch cubes; 1/2 cup olive oil or canola oil; 3 tbsp white wine vinegar; Juice of 2 lemons; 6 garlic cloves, smashed; 3 tbsp fresh dill, minced; 3 tbsp fresh parsley, minced; 2 tsp dried oregano; 1–1½ tsp coarse salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 6–8 Greek pita breads, warmed; 2 tomatoes, sliced; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce

Description

This Chicken Souvlaki Recipe features juicy Greek-style chicken skewers marinated in lemon, garlic, fresh herbs, and olive oil, then grilled to perfection and served with warm pita bread, fresh vegetables, and creamy tzatziki sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

2 lbs chicken breasts (about 4), cut into 1-inch cubes

Chicken Souvlaki Marinade:

1/2 cup olive oil or canola oil
3 tbsp white wine vinegar
Juice of 2 lemons
6 garlic cloves, smashed
3 tbsp fresh dill, minced
3 tbsp fresh parsley, minced
2 tsp dried oregano
1–1½ tsp coarse salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

For Serving:

6–8 Greek pita breads, warmed
2 tomatoes, sliced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup tzatziki sauce

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Instructions

In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, dill, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Add the chicken cubes to a large zip-top bag or container and pour the marinade over the chicken. Toss well to coat.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight (up to 12 hours).
Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, placing 4–5 pieces on each skewer.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
Grill the chicken skewers for 16–20 minutes total, turning every 4–5 minutes, until cooked through and lightly charred.
While the chicken cooks, warm the pita bread on the grill.
Serve the chicken on warm pita bread with sliced tomatoes, red onions, and tzatziki sauce.

Notes

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 45 minutes before grilling.

Do not marinate the chicken longer than 12 hours.

For dried herbs, use half the amount listed for fresh herbs.

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free pita bread or serve over rice or salad.

Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 551 kcal
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 1549 mg
Fat: 26 g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 23 g
Trans Fat: 0.1 g
Carbohydrates: 40 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 39 g
Cholesterol: 100 mg