Chicken souvlaki is one of the most iconic dishes of Greek cuisine, and this recipe lets you enjoy it easily at home. It consists of chicken cubes marinated in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, oregano, and lemon, skewered and grilled until golden on the outside and juicy inside. Served with warm pita bread and a refreshing tzatziki sauce made with cucumber, yogurt, and fresh herbs, this dish is perfect for an informal dinner with friends or a family meal that evokes Mediterranean flavors.
This chicken souvlaki recipe is ideal for those looking for a healthy and flavorful option. The marinade not only adds incredible aroma but also helps keep the chicken tender. You can serve it as a main course or as part of a meze platter, alongside other sides like Greek salad, hummus, or extra tzatziki. If you prefer a lighter version, you can cook the skewers in a non-stick pan or in the oven, and if you like spice, add a pinch of paprika or chili powder to the marinade.
The tzatziki sauce, made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, dill, and mint, perfectly complements the chicken's flavor and adds a creamy, refreshing texture. This combination of ingredients makes chicken souvlaki a balanced and nutritious option, rich in protein and low in carbohydrates if served without the bread. Additionally, it's a very versatile recipe: you can prepare the skewers in advance and grill them just before serving, making it an excellent choice for gatherings or outdoor meals.
Prep
30 min
Servings
4
In a bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 1 hour in the refrigerator.
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the Tzatziki sauce. In another bowl, combine diced cucumber, Greek yogurt, chopped dill, chopped mint, and a pinch of salt. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers.
Grill the chicken skewers for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and have nice grill marks.
While the chicken is grilling, warm the pita bread rounds on the grill for about 1-2 minutes per side.
To serve, place a warm pita bread on each plate, top with grilled chicken, sliced red onion, diced tomato, and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle with Tzatziki sauce.
Garnish with fresh mint and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious European-style Chicken Souvlaki!
Note: You can also serve it with a side of Greek salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
