Greek Chicken Souvlaki is more than just a recipe — it’s a cultural experience. Served everywhere from street food stalls in Athens to seaside tavernas on the islands, souvlaki captures the essence of Greek cuisine: fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and simple cooking done right.
This guide takes you beyond the basics. You’ll learn not just how to make souvlaki, but also why each ingredient matters, authentic preparation secrets, and modern variations that make it fit for any table.
⭐ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Flavor – Traditional Greek marinade with yogurt, lemon, garlic, and herbs.
- Healthy & Protein-Rich – Fits perfectly into a Mediterranean diet.
- Versatile – Serve as wraps, platters, or party skewers.
- Beginner-Friendly – Easy to make at home with simple steps.
📝 Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 1.5 lbs (700 g) chicken thighs (skinless, boneless – juicier than breasts)
- 3 tbsp Greek yogurt (for tenderness & tang)
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Juice & zest of 1 large lemon
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ tsp dried oregano (Greek oregano preferred)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Wooden or metal skewers
Optional Garnishes & Sides: Warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, sliced onions, tomatoes, fries, Greek salad.
🥣 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice + zest, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken
- Cut chicken into 1-inch cubes.
- Toss in marinade until fully coated.
- Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours (ideally overnight for maximum flavor).
💡 Pro Tip: Do not marinate longer than 24 hours — the acid from lemon + yogurt can break down the chicken too much.
3. Skewer the Chicken
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Thread chicken pieces tightly but not overcrowded.
4. Cook the Souvlaki
- Grill Method (Best): Preheat grill to medium-high. Grill skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is golden and cooked through (165°F / 74°C internal).
- Oven Method: Place skewers on a baking sheet and roast at 425°F (220°C) for 20–22 minutes, broiling at the end for charred edges.
- Stovetop Method: Cook on a grill pan for 10–12 minutes, turning until cooked.
5. Serve Immediately
Plate with warm pita, tzatziki, tomatoes, onions, and fries for an authentic Greek street-food experience.
🍷 Serving Suggestions & Pairings
- Classic: Pita wraps with tzatziki, tomatoes, onion, and fries.
- Platter Style: Serve with Greek salad, lemon potatoes, and roasted vegetables.
- Wine Pairing: Crisp Assyrtiko white wine or light Agiorgitiko red.
- Non-Alcoholic: Sparkling water with lemon or Greek-style iced coffee.
⚡ Pro Tips & Chef Secrets
- Use chicken thighs for juicier skewers (breasts can dry out).
- Always add both lemon juice & zest – zest intensifies citrus aroma.
- For restaurant-style char, cook over charcoal instead of gas.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the marinade for extra depth.
🌍 Cultural Notes & Authenticity
Souvlaki has been enjoyed in Greece for centuries. The word comes from “souvla,” meaning skewer, and references the tradition of cooking meat over open flames. Unlike gyros (which are cooked on a vertical rotisserie), souvlaki is always grilled on skewers.
Regional differences:
- Athens: Souvlaki served in pita with fries.
- Islands: Lighter, often with seafood variations.
- Northern Greece: Heavier marinades, spicier notes.
🥗 Variations & Adaptations
- Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with halloumi, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Low-Fat: Use chicken breast and less oil.
- Spicy: Add chili flakes or cayenne.
- Meal Prep: Marinate, skewer, and freeze raw chicken. Grill straight from frozen (add 5–7 minutes cooking time).
🧮 Nutrition (Per Serving, approx.)
- Calories: 310
- Protein: 32g
- Carbs: 5g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
Values vary based on ingredients and sides.
❓ FAQs About Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Q: What’s the difference between souvlaki and gyro?
A: Souvlaki is grilled on skewers; gyro is cooked on a vertical spit.
Q: Can I make souvlaki without a grill?
A: Yes! Use an oven broiler or stovetop grill pan for similar results.
Q: How long should I marinate the chicken?
A: Minimum 2 hours; overnight is best. Avoid more than 24 hours.
Q: Can I bake souvlaki in the oven?
A: Absolutely — roast at 425°F (220°C) for about 20–22 minutes, finishing with a broil for charred edges.
✅ Final Thoughts
Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a perfect balance of simplicity and flavor. With a few fresh ingredients and the right technique, you can bring the streets of Athens right into your kitchen.
Whether you’re cooking for family, meal-prepping, or hosting a summer BBQ, this recipe delivers authentic taste, healthy nutrition, and universal appeal.
