Authentic Greek Chicken Skewers

This authentic Greek chicken souvlaki brings the flavors of the Mediterranean straight to your table with minimal effort. Juicy chicken pieces are marinated in a bright lemon and herb mixture, then grilled to tender perfection. The recipe promises restaurant-quality results with simple, everyday ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.

I first made this chicken souvlaki during a summer when I was craving Mediterranean flavors but couldn't travel. Now it's become our family's go-to recipe whenever we want to transport ourselves to a Greek island without leaving home.

Ingredients

• Chicken breast: The lean protein that becomes incredibly tender when marinated properly
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides that authentic Mediterranean punch
• Dried oregano: The signature herb that gives this dish its distinctly Greek character
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance all the other flavors
• Olive oil: Use a good quality oil as it forms the base of your marinade
• Fresh lemon juice: Adds brightness and helps tenderize the chicken

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

Combine all ingredients in a sealable bag or container making sure every piece of chicken is thoroughly coated with the marinade mixture. Allow at least 2 hours for the flavors to penetrate the meat and tenderize it properly. For best results, marinate overnight in the refrigerator.

Prepare the Skewers:

Soak wooden skewers in water for 1-2 hours to prevent burning during grilling. This step is crucial especially if you're using a high-heat cooking method. The water creates a barrier that delays the wood from catching fire.

Assemble Your Souvlaki:

Thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers leaving about half an inch of space at the bottom for easy handling. Don't overcrowd the skewers as this ensures even cooking throughout each piece of chicken.

Grill to Perfection:

Cook on a preheated medium-high grill for approximately 3 minutes per side. Look for slight charring on the edges while ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Allow the cooked skewers to rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in all those delicious juices.

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The dried oregano is truly the star ingredient in this recipe. When I visited Greece years ago, I noticed how generously they use this herb in their cooking, and I've never skimped on it since. The aroma when the marinated chicken hits the hot grill takes me right back to those small family-owned tavernas overlooking the Aegean Sea.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken souvlaki pairs beautifully with warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a simple Greek salad. For an authentic experience, wrap the grilled chicken in warm pita with sliced tomatoes, onions, and a generous dollop of tzatziki. If you're watching carbs, serve over a bed of crisp romaine lettuce with cucumber, feta cheese, and kalamata olives.

Make It A Meal

Transform your chicken souvlaki into a complete Greek feast by adding some traditional sides. Lemon potatoes roasted with olive oil and oregano make an excellent accompaniment. For a lighter option, try a cucumber and tomato salad dressed simply with olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs. Complete the spread with warm pita bread and a selection of dips like hummus or roasted eggplant spread.

Ingredient Substitutions

If chicken breast isn't your preference, thigh meat works wonderfully and often results in even juicier souvlaki. For those avoiding animal products altogether, extra-firm tofu or tempeh can be marinated and skewered following the same process. When fresh lemons aren't available, bottled juice will work in a pinch, though the flavor won't be quite as vibrant. Red wine vinegar can substitute part of the lemon juice for a different acidic profile that's still authentic to Greek cuisine.

Storage Tips

For meal prep enthusiasts, this chicken souvlaki is a dream come true. Store cooked souvlaki in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. The flavors actually continue to develop, making leftovers sometimes even tastier than the original meal. For longer storage, freeze the marinated raw chicken on or off skewers for up to 9 months. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before cooking for best results and food safety.

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Common Recipe Questions

→ How long should I marinate the chicken souvlaki?

For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. However, you can marinate it for up to overnight in the refrigerator for even more flavor development.

→ Why do I need to soak wooden skewers?

Soaking wooden skewers in water for 1-2 hours before grilling prevents them from burning during the cooking process. This step is important when cooking over direct heat like on a grill.

→ What can I serve with chicken souvlaki?

Traditional accompaniments include warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, Greek salad, and rice pilaf. You can also serve with grilled vegetables, lemon wedges, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or mint.

→ Can I cook chicken souvlaki in the oven instead of grilling?

Yes! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for approximately 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

→ How do I know when the chicken souvlaki is fully cooked?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the meat is no longer pink in the center. With the bite-sized pieces used in souvlaki, this typically takes about 3 minutes per side on a medium-high grill.

→ Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This marinade works wonderfully with pork, lamb, or even firm fish like swordfish. Adjust cooking times accordingly as different proteins require different cooking durations.