Name: Chicken Souvlaki Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1½ pounds boneless and skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes; ⅓ cup olive oil; 3 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest; 5 cloves garlic, minced; ½ teaspoon white pepper; 2 teaspoons Greek seasoning; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 2 small yellow onions, chopped into 1-inch pieces; Fresh herbs (such as fresh mint, fresh oregano, or fresh dill) for garnish; Pita bread (optional); Tzatziki sauce (optional); Greek salad (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 13 reviews

If you’ve ever craved a burst of Mediterranean sunshine on your plate, this Chicken Souvlaki Recipe is exactly what you need. Juicy, tender cubes of marinated chicken threaded alongside sweet onions and grilled to perfection create a symphony of flavors that’s both comforting and fresh. This dish is simple enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to impress friends and family. Every bite is packed with the zesty tang of lemon, fragrant garlic, and that unmistakable Greek seasoning magic, making Chicken Souvlaki a true crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white bowl in the center filled with raw light pink chicken pieces. Below to the left, there is a small white bowl full of chopped white onions. Around the bowls, there are six small white dishes and a white wooden spoon, each holding different ingredients: bright yellow lemon zest in a small bowl at the top left, a small bowl with salt and red seasoning at the top right, a small bowl with brown powder below and to the right of the lemon zest, a small bowl with a creamy liquid below the bowl of chicken, a very light yellow liquid in a small cup to the left of the creamy liquid, a small bowl filled with finely chopped garlic below the powder, and a white wooden spoon on the right holding reddish-brown ground spices. All items are placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple ingredients are the secret to a Chicken Souvlaki Recipe that tastes fresh and authentic. Each component plays a vital role, from the olive oil that keeps everything moist, to the lemon juice and zest which brighten the flavors up beautifully.

Boneless and skinless chicken breasts (1½ pounds, cut into 1-inch cubes): Use fresh chicken for the best texture and tenderness.

Small yellow onions (2, chopped into 1-inch pieces): Adds a natural sweetness that perfectly complements the chicken’s savory taste.
Olive oil (⅓ cup): A key ingredient for moist, flavorful meat while grilling.
Lemon juice (3 tablespoons): Provides a bright, tangy zing that wakes up your taste buds.

Grated lemon zest (1 teaspoon): Intensifies lemon flavor without adding extra liquid.
Garlic cloves (5, minced): Adds a bold, aromatic punch essential in Greek cooking.
White pepper (½ teaspoon): Offers a gentle heat that blends seamlessly with other spices.

Greek seasoning (2 teaspoons): The soul of the dish, delivering classic herbs and spices that make it unmistakably Greek.
Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors while keeping the chicken juicy.
Freshly ground black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a touch of warmth and depth.

Fresh herbs (for garnish): Mint, oregano, or dill bring a fragrant finish and vibrant color to your dish.

How to Make Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by mixing olive oil, lemon juice, grated lemon zest, minced garlic, white pepper, Greek seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper together in a bowl. This marinade is the heartbeat of the Chicken Souvlaki Recipe, infusing every bite with layers of zesty, savory flavor.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken cubes in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Make sure every piece gets a good coating of the lovely mixture. Seal and refrigerate for at least one hour. For that unbeatable depth of flavor, letting the chicken soak overnight is even better.

Step 3: Prep the Skewers

If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes. This simple step stops them from catching fire on the grill and ensures your skewers stay intact while cooking.

Step 4: Get the Grill Ready

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. A hot grill is key to creating those signature seared marks on your Chicken Souvlaki and locking in all the delicious juices.

Step 5: Thread the Chicken and Onions

Alternate threading the marinated chicken pieces and chopped onions onto the skewers. The onions caramelize beautifully and add that wonderful sweet balance to the savory chicken throughout the cooking process.

Step 6: Grill to Perfection

Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 6 to 8 minutes per side. Keep rotating occasionally to ensure even cooking and a gorgeous char. The chicken should be cooked through but still tender and juicy.

Step 7: Let it Rest

After grilling, give the skewers a few minutes to rest. This brief pause allows the juices to redistribute, so every bite stays moist and flavorful.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Chicken Souvlaki Recipe hot off the grill. Pair it with your favorite Greek sides or wrap it up in pita bread with fresh toppings for a meal that’s certain to delight.

How to Serve Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Five skewers of grilled chicken and onions with golden brown grill marks lie stacked in the center of a white oval plate with a thin beige rim, garnished with small green herb leaves. To the top right, one skewer rests on the white marbled surface next to a light brown spice cube. To the left, several cucumber slices and two pieces of brown flatbread sit on the white marbled surface. Below, partially wrapped in crinkled foil, is another skewer showing charred edges. At the bottom right is a small white bowl filled with white yogurt sauce spiked with green herbs, with a spoon beside it on the white marbled surface. Sprigs of fresh dill and small leaves are scattered across the scene. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like mint, oregano, or dill make an incredible garnish for Chicken Souvlaki. Their vibrant color and fresh scent elevate the dish’s presentation and add an extra burst of flavor that’s unmistakably Mediterranean.

Side Dishes

Chicken souvlaki shines when served alongside traditional Greek staples such as fluffy pita bread, cool tzatziki sauce, and a crisp Greek salad filled with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese. These sides add texture, balance, and complementary flavors to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the souvlaki skewers as part of a Mediterranean platter with hummus, olives, and grilled vegetables. You can also chop the grilled chicken and toss it in a salad or stuff it inside warm pita pockets for a casual, handheld feast your family and friends will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the grilled chicken souvlaki in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep deliciously for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners afterward.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked chicken souvlaki by placing the skewers or chopped pieces in a freezer-safe container. It’s best consumed within 2 months for optimal flavor. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat chicken souvlaki gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven to maintain the juicy texture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the meat. A quick re-grill also works wonders to refresh those lovely charred notes.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs remain juicy and flavorful, and they work wonderfully in the Chicken Souvlaki Recipe. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

Do I need to soak wooden skewers?

Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning on the grill and keeps the chicken from sticking. If you’re using metal skewers, you can skip this step.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinating for at least one hour is sufficient, but for the best flavor penetration, marinate overnight if you have the time. The longer the chicken soaks up the marinade, the tastier it will be.

Can I cook Chicken Souvlaki Recipe indoors?

Definitely! Use a grill pan or broiler if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill. Just make sure to watch the skewers closely to avoid overcooking or burning.

What if I don’t have Greek seasoning?

You can make your own by combining dried oregano, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, and a pinch of cinnamon. This DIY blend will bring that authentic flavor to your Chicken Souvlaki Recipe just as well.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so wonderfully satisfying about making a Chicken Souvlaki Recipe at home that brings family, friends, and good times together. With its bright flavors, simple prep, and irresistible charred finish, it’s no wonder this dish is a favorite in Greek cuisine and beyond. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you’ll love how effortless it is to make while tasting like a Mediterranean escape all year round.