🍋 Introduction: Experience the Taste of Greece
There’s something magical about the sizzling aroma of Greek Chicken Souvlaki on a hot grill. This classic Greek street food captures the heart of Mediterranean cuisine — tender chicken marinated in olive oil, lemon, garlic, and herbs, grilled to golden perfection, and served with warm pita, tangy tzatziki, and fresh vegetables.
Whether you’ve strolled the streets of Athens or are recreating the experience at home, this recipe brings authentic Greek flavor straight to your kitchen. Let’s make the juiciest, most flavorful Chicken Souvlaki you’ve ever tasted.
🏺 What Is Greek Chicken Souvlaki?
Souvlaki (pronounced soo-VLAH-kee) means “small skewer” in Greek. It’s one of the most popular street foods in Greece, dating back to ancient times when meat was cooked over open flames on wooden skewers.
Unlike gyros, which are cooked on a vertical rotisserie, souvlaki is made by grilling marinated cubes of meat on skewers — usually chicken, pork, or lamb — and serving them with pita and toppings.
Each bite is smoky, lemony, and perfectly seasoned — a true taste of Greek summer.
🧂 Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose & Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breast or thigh (boneless) | 1.5 lbs (700g) | Thighs stay juicier on the grill |
| Olive oil (extra virgin) | ⅓ cup | Adds moisture and authentic Greek flavor |
| Lemon juice (fresh) | 3 tbsp | Tenderizes and brightens flavor |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | Classic Mediterranean depth |
| Dried oregano | 1 tbsp | Use Greek oregano for the best aroma |
| Dried thyme | 1 tsp | Enhances earthy herbal balance |
| Salt | 1 tsp | Draws out flavor |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp | Adds subtle spice |
| Wooden or metal skewers | — | Soak wooden skewers before grilling |
🧪 The Secret Greek Marinade
The soul of any souvlaki is its marinade — a simple but powerful blend that infuses the chicken with brightness and depth.
🥣 Marinade Formula:
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
🔬 Expert Tip:
The acid (lemon) helps break down protein fibers, while the oil seals in moisture. Marinate for at least 3 hours — or overnight for maximum flavor. If you want extra tenderness, whisk in 2 tbsp Greek yogurt for a creamy, traditional twist.
🔥 How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki (Step-by-Step)
1. Prepare the Chicken
Cut chicken into 1-inch cubes. Pat dry to remove excess moisture (helps browning).
2. Marinate
Combine all marinade ingredients in a large bowl. Add chicken pieces, toss to coat evenly, cover, and refrigerate for at least 3 hours (overnight preferred).
3. Assemble the Skewers
Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small gap between pieces for even cooking.
4. Grill to Perfection
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (400°F / 200°C).
Grill for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally until golden and lightly charred on all sides. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
5. Rest and Serve
Let skewers rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain juiciness.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve your Greek Chicken Souvlaki with:
- Warm pita bread or flatbread
- Creamy tzatziki sauce
- Fresh Greek salad (tomatoes, cucumber, feta, olives)
- Side of lemon-roasted potatoes
👉 Drizzle with a touch of olive oil and sprinkle extra oregano for a final authentic flourish.
🧠 Pro Tips for Perfect Souvlaki
✅ Use chicken thighs for juicier texture.
✅ Always soak wooden skewers for 30 minutes before grilling.
✅ Do not over-marinate (lemon acid can make meat mushy).
✅ Let meat rest after grilling for 5 minutes.
✅ For indoor cooking, use a cast-iron grill pan — preheated well.
⚖️ Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 33 g |
| Fat | 17 g |
| Carbohydrates | 5 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
Healthy Tip: This dish is naturally high in protein, low in carbs, and fits easily into a Mediterranean or clean-eating diet.
🏛️ A Brief History of Souvlaki
Souvlaki traces its origins back to ancient Greece, where soldiers would cook small pieces of meat over open fires using their swords. In modern Greece, souvlaki became a street food icon in the 1950s, representing simplicity, community, and authentic Greek flavor.
Today, it’s enjoyed worldwide as a symbol of Greek hospitality and Mediterranean living — quick, flavorful, and unforgettable.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What’s the difference between souvlaki and gyros?
👉 Souvlaki uses grilled meat chunks on skewers; gyros are shaved slices of meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie.
Q2: Can I make souvlaki without a grill?
👉 Yes! You can cook it in an oven broiler or grill pan — just make sure to preheat and lightly oil the surface.
Q3: How long can I marinate chicken?
👉 3–4 hours minimum, up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.
Q4: Can I use other meats?
👉 Absolutely — try pork, lamb, or even shrimp for variations.
Q5: Is Greek Chicken Souvlaki healthy?
👉 Yes. It’s lean, high-protein, and uses heart-healthy olive oil — perfect for balanced diets.
🌿 Conclusion
Greek Chicken Souvlaki is more than just food — it’s a bite of Greece itself. With its zesty lemon marinade, smoky grill marks, and refreshing Mediterranean sides, it’s a meal that feels like summer sunshine on your plate.
So fire up the grill, grab your skewers, and bring the taste of Santorini to your kitchen tonight. 🇬🇷✨
