The sizzling sound of marinated chicken hitting the grill transports me to a sun-drenched Mediterranean market, where vibrant flavors and fragrant herbs dance in the air. That’s the essence of Chicken Souvlaki, those delightful Greek kabobs that make me feel like I’m on vacation every time I cook them. This easy recipe not only comes together in just 10 minutes of prep but is also gluten-free and low-fat, making it a perfect choice for both laid-back weeknight dinners and lively summer BBQs. Whether you enjoy them nestled in a warm pita or simply on their own with a fresh salad, these kabobs are sure to impress your family and friends. Ready to embrace the taste of the Mediterranean? Let’s dive in! Why is Chicken Souvlaki a Must-Try? Simplicity: This recipe comes together in just 10 minutes of prep, making it ideal for busy home cooks. Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you choose to grill or oven-broil, you’ll achieve perfectly cooked chicken each time, fitting for any season. Bold Flavors: The marinade of oregano, lemon, and garlic infuses the chicken with a scrumptious taste that transports you straight to Greece. Healthy Indulgence: Gluten-free, low-fat, and paleo-friendly, this dish allows you to indulge without the guilt. Pair it with grilled pita or a fresh salad for a complete meal! Crowd-Pleaser: Elevate your summer BBQ with these kabobs that are sure to impress every guest at your gathering. Chicken Souvlaki Ingredients For the Marinade • Oregano – A key herb that gives that authentic Mediterranean flair; fresh or dried will do, but dried packs more punch. • Garlic – Use about 4-5 cloves, minced for a depth of flavor that ties all the elements together. • Lemon Juice – Juice from 1 large lemon adds a refreshing acidity to balance the savory notes. • Olive Oil – Prefer extra virgin for the best flavor and moisture, acting as the base of your marinade. • Chili Flakes – Adjust the amount based on your spice preference; a subtle kick makes all the difference! • Cumin Powder – Optional, but this earthy spice can enhance the overall complexity of your Chicken Souvlaki. For the Chicken • Boneless Chicken Breast or Thighs – Use approximately 1.5 lb; thighs provide a juicy texture, while breasts are leaner. For Serving (Optional) • Pita Bread – Grill or toast for an authentic touch; it’s delicious to scoop up the flavorful chicken. • Chopped Fresh Parsley – Adds brightness and freshness when sprinkled over the finished kabobs. With these delicious Chicken Souvlaki ingredients at your fingertips, you’re just moments away from a delightful Mediterranean feast! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Souvlaki Step 1: Make Marinade In a large mixing bowl or sealable bag, whisk together 2 tablespoons of dried oregano, 4-5 minced garlic cloves, the juice of 1 large lemon, 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, and a pinch of chili flakes and cumin. Mix well until combined. This aromatic marinade is what makes your Chicken Souvlaki truly shine, so ensure all ingredients are well incorporated. Step 2: Marinate Chicken Cut 1.5 lbs of boneless chicken breast or thighs into 1-2 inch pieces. Add the chicken to your marinade, stirring gently until every piece is well coated. Cover the bowl or seal the bag tightly, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For maximum flavor, marinate it overnight if you have the time, allowing those delicious Greek flavors to penetrate the meat fully. Step 3: Prepare for Grilling While your chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F (190°C). Meanwhile, skewer the marinated chicken pieces onto soaked bamboo or metal skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking. Ensure the chicken is evenly distributed to allow for proper grilling, creating that perfect char on your Chicken Souvlaki. Step 4: Grill Chicken Place the skewers on the preheated grill, cooking for about 10-15 minutes. Turn the skewers every few minutes to ensure even cooking and achieve those beautiful char marks. You’ll know your Chicken Souvlaki is ready when the juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The aroma of grilled chicken will surely entice you! Step 5: Brush Kabobs Optional, but highly recommended! During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the kabobs with a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of salt. This technique keeps your chicken moist and adds an extra layer of flavor. Keep an eye on the kabobs to prevent overcooking—golden and slightly charred pieces are what you’re aiming for. Step 6: Oven Method If grilling isn’t an option, you can make Chicken Souvlaki in your oven. Preheat the oven to broil on high and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Place your skewers on the sheet and broil for about 5-7 minutes each side, flipping halfway through. Keep the oven door slightly ajar to monitor the cooking and avoid burning, ensuring juicy kabobs that are golden brown. Step 7: Serve and Enjoy Once cooked, let the Chicken Souvlaki rest for a few minutes before serving. You can serve these tasty kabobs warm on a platter or with toasted pita bread. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for added color and freshness. Pair them with tzatziki sauce or a light salad for a delightful Mediterranean experience, perfect for any gathering! Expert Tips for Chicken Souvlaki Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances the flavor, making your Chicken Souvlaki more delicious. Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for perfect doneness without drying out. Avoid Charring: Watch the skewers closely while grilling to prevent burning the herbs in the marinade, which can impart a bitter taste. Choose the Right Skewers: If using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to avoid burning. Metal skewers do not require soaking. Experiment with Variations: Try substituting chicken with shrimp or vegetables for different protein options while keeping the same flavorful marinade! Serve Fresh: For the best experience, enjoy Chicken Souvlaki right off the grill with some fresh tzatziki sauce on the side. Make Ahead Options These Chicken Souvlaki are perfect for busy weeknights and can be prepped in advance to save you time. You can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken up to 24 hours before cooking, allowing those bold flavors to develop. Simply combine the marinade ingredients and coat the chicken, then refrigerate it tightly covered. If you need to, cooked Chicken Souvlaki can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, let the kabobs cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, reheat them gently on the grill or in the oven, ensuring they’re heated through without drying out. Enjoy quick and delicious meals with these easy make-ahead tips! What to Serve with Easy Chicken Souvlaki? From zesty salads to warm pita, creating a perfect Mediterranean feast is easy with these delicious pairings. Tzatziki Sauce: This cool, creamy dip made from yogurt, cucumber, and garlic is the perfect complement, balancing the robust flavors of the kabobs. Greek Salad: Fresh tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and feta create a vibrant contrast with juicy chicken, infusing your meal with bright, Mediterranean flavors. Grilled Pita: Toasted to perfection and slightly charred, pita bread is ideal for scooping up both chicken and dips, adding a delightful crunch to each bite. Herbed Couscous: Light and fluffy, this side dish absorbs the wonderful marinade flavors, providing a subtle and satisfying base for your kabobs. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant add sweetness and texture, while their caramelized edges bring warmth to your meal. Lemon Rice: Zesty, fragrant rice pairs beautifully, its citrus notes enhancing the chicken’s marinade while adding a lovely, cohesive flavor profile. Red Wine: A light-bodied red, like Beaujolais, enhances the savory flavors and complements the dish beautifully without overpowering it. Baklava: For dessert, indulge in this rich, nutty pastry drenched in honey syrup. It’s the perfect sweet finish to your Mediterranean meal! How to Store and Freeze Chicken Souvlaki Fridge: Store cooked Chicken Souvlaki in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the marinated chicken pieces before cooking. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Reheating: To reheat, simply grill or broil thawed kabobs for about 5-7 minutes until heated through. This retains their juicy texture and bold flavors. Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the marinade in advance; it can be stored in the fridge for up to one day before adding chicken, making your next cooking session even more convenient! Chicken Souvlaki Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative with this Chicken Souvlaki recipe; there are so many delicious twists you can try! Shrimp Variety: Swap chicken for shrimp for a delightful seafood twist that cooks quickly on the grill. Just be sure to adjust your cooking time down to 5-7 minutes, as shrimp cooks faster. Vegetable Skewers: For a vegetarian option, use bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and red onion tossed in the marinade. Grilling will bring out their natural sweetness and smokiness. Lime Zest: Replace lemon juice with lime juice for a refreshing kick. This subtle change brightens the flavor and pairs beautifully with the herbs. Herb Swap: Use Italian seasoning in place of oregano to create a different flavor profile. This variation gives a lovely aromatic touch while keeping the Mediterranean essence intact. Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the marinade for an extra layer of heat. The slow burn will beautifully complement the other flavors! Carb-Free Option: Skip the pita and serve the Chicken Souvlaki over a bed of fresh greens or cauliflower rice instead. It’s a light and satisfying choice that still satisfies your cravings. Marinade Add-In: Mix in a tablespoon of honey for a touch of sweetness that balances the savory elements in the dish. The caramelization on the grill makes it even more delicious! Charred Pineapple: Serve your kabobs with grilled pineapple for a sweet and savory combination that elevates your dining experience. It’s a fun summertime twist that will delight your taste buds! As you explore these variations, don’t forget to pair your Chicken Souvlaki with a side of grilled pita or a lovely salad to round out your meal. Why not try them with a refreshing tzatziki sauce too? Each variation brings a fresh take on this classic, ensuring your family will never tire of this favorite! Chicken Souvlaki Recipe FAQs What type of chicken is best for Chicken Souvlaki? I recommend using boneless chicken breast or thighs for your Chicken Souvlaki. Thighs are juicier and more forgiving when cooking, while breasts offer a leaner option. Whichever you choose, aim for about 1.5 pounds for this recipe! How long can I store cooked Chicken Souvlaki in the fridge? You can store your cooked Chicken Souvlaki in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply grill or broil until warmed through. This will help maintain its delicious flavor and juicy texture! Can I freeze Chicken Souvlaki? If so, how? Absolutely! To freeze, marinate the chicken pieces as instructed, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. The chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then grill or broil them as usual. What should I do if my Chicken Souvlaki is dry? If your Chicken Souvlaki turns out dry, it may have been overcooked. Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you notice dryness, try marinating the chicken for longer next time or brush it with olive oil and lemon during cooking for added moisture. Is Chicken Souvlaki suitable for gluten-free diets? Yes, Chicken Souvlaki is naturally gluten-free since the main ingredients include chicken and herbs, without any gluten-containing products. Just ensure that any side dishes, like pita bread, are also gluten-free if you’re serving them alongside. How do I ensure my chicken is evenly marinated? To ensure your Chicken Souvlaki is evenly marinated, cut the chicken into uniform 1-2 inch pieces and stir them gently in the marinade after adding them. For optimal flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight, allowing the delicious spices to permeate every bite. Savory Chicken Souvlaki: Your Ultimate BBQ Delight Discover the vibrant flavors and healthy indulgence of chicken souvlaki, the perfect Mediterranean BBQ dish. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsMarinating Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 55 minutes mins Servings: 4 kabobsCourse: ChickenCuisine: GreekCalories: 200 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Marinade2 tablespoons dried oregano A key herb that gives that authentic Mediterranean flair.4-5 cloves garlic Minced for depth of flavor.1 large lemon Juiced for acidity.3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil For flavor and moisture.to taste chili flakes Adjust for spice preference.optional cumin powder Enhances overall flavor.For the Chicken1.5 lbs boneless chicken breast or thighs Thighs provide juiciness, breasts are leaner.For Serving (Optional)pita bread Grilled or toasted.chopped fresh parsley For garnish. Equipment Grillmixing bowlskewersmeat thermometer Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large mixing bowl or sealable bag, whisk together the marinade ingredients until combined.Cut the chicken into 1-2 inch pieces and add to the marinade. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Skewer the marinated chicken pieces, leaving space between each.Grill the skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.Optional: Brush kabobs with olive oil and lemon juice mixture during the last few minutes of grilling.For oven method: Preheat oven to broil, place skewers on a lined baking sheet, and broil for about 5-7 minutes each side.Let the chicken rest before serving. Serve warm with pita or salad. Nutrition Serving: 1kabobCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 25gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 3mgIron: 10mg NotesMarinate the chicken longer for enhanced flavor and ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F for perfect doneness. Serve fresh off the grill with tzatziki sauce for the best experience. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
