Name: Chicken Souvlaki
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes; ½ cup olive oil; 3 tbsp white wine vinegar; Juice of 2 lemons; 6 garlic cloves, smashed; 3 tbsp fresh dill, minced; 3 tbsp fresh parsley, minced; 2 tsp dried oregano; 1–1.5 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 6–8 Greek pita breads; 2 tomatoes, sliced; ½ red onion, thinly sliced; ½ cup tzatziki sauce

There’s something truly irresistible about Chicken Souvlaki. It’s that smoky, lemony aroma as the chicken sizzles on the grill, the burst of herby flavor with each bite, and the way it wraps up so perfectly in a soft pita with crisp vegetables and creamy tzatziki. Whether you’re firing up the grill in the height of summer or just craving something fresh and bold on a weeknight, this Greek classic delivers every time.

I first came across this Chicken Souvlaki recipe from Will Cook For Smiles during a summer barbecue phase. We were on the hunt for recipes that were quick to prep but felt a little more special than the usual burgers or hot dogs. One bite into the juicy grilled chicken, and it immediately earned a spot in our permanent rotation. Since then, it’s become our go-to meal for everything from family dinners to casual get-togethers with friends.

What I love most about this recipe is how customizable and approachable it is. The marinade takes minutes to throw together, yet the flavor payoff is huge. Plus, the ingredients are simple—things you likely already have in your kitchen. And even better? You don’t need to be a grill master to get this right. Whether you use an outdoor grill or a stovetop grill pan, you’ll get delicious results.

So if you’re looking for a new favorite that’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and guaranteed to impress, this Chicken Souvlaki is it. Let’s dive into what makes it so special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this Chicken Souvlaki recipe, but here are the standout ones:

Simple ingredients with bold flavor
With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh herbs, you can create a marinade that infuses the chicken with zesty, garlicky, herb-packed flavor. The combination of lemon juice, vinegar, garlic, dill, and oregano is magic.

Quick prep and easy cooking
This is one of those recipes that feels fancy but is actually super low-effort. After marinating, the chicken cooks up quickly on the grill or stovetop, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute hosting.

Perfect for gatherings or meal prep
Since the chicken is cooked on skewers, it’s ideal for serving a crowd. And the leftovers? They’re perfect for tossing into salads, wraps, or grain bowls throughout the week.

Kid-approved and customizable
Mild and flavorful, this dish is a hit with kids, and it’s easy to adjust. You can add more veggies, swap out sauces, or even serve it deconstructed for picky eaters.

A taste of Greece at home
There’s something transportive about Chicken Souvlaki. Each bite brings a little taste of a Greek seaside taverna, no plane ticket required.

Health Benefits

Chicken Souvlaki isn’t just delicious—it’s also a wholesome, protein-rich option that can easily fit into a balanced diet.

High in protein
Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, which helps keep you full and supports muscle repair. Each serving packs in plenty of it, making this a satisfying and energizing meal.

Rich in healthy fats
Olive oil, a key part of the marinade, provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that support overall wellness.

Low in carbs
Served in moderation with pita and plenty of veggies, this dish is naturally lower in carbohydrates, especially if you choose to skip the bread or use a low-carb wrap.

Loaded with fresh herbs and garlic
Fresh dill, parsley, and garlic not only boost flavor but also offer antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

Customizable for dietary needs
This recipe is naturally halal-friendly and can be easily made gluten-free by using gluten-free pita or lettuce wraps.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Total Time:
Prep: 10 minutes
Marinate: 2–12 hours
Cook: 20 minutes
Total: Up to 12 hours 30 minutes (mostly inactive time)

Servings:
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 360
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g

Ingredients List

For the Chicken and Marinade

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
½ cup olive oil or avocado oil
3 tablespoons white wine vinegar
Juice of 2 lemons (or 3 if not very juicy)
6 garlic cloves, smashed
3 tablespoons fresh minced dill weed
3 tablespoons fresh minced parsley
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1–1.5 teaspoons coarse salt, to taste
½ teaspoon black pepper

For Serving

6–8 Greek pita breads, warmed
2 tomatoes, sliced
½ red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup tzatziki sauce (more or less, to taste)

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, lemon juice, smashed garlic, dill, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. The mixture should be fragrant and slightly thick.

2. Marinate the Chicken

Add the cubed chicken to a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For best results, let it marinate overnight. However, avoid going beyond 12 hours to prevent the chicken from becoming too soft.

3. Soak the Skewers

If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30–45 minutes before grilling. This helps prevent burning on the grill.

4. Thread the Chicken

After marinating, thread 4–5 chicken pieces onto each skewer. Don’t overcrowd them—leave a little space between pieces to ensure even cooking.

5. Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If possible, set up two zones: one for direct heat and one for indirect heat.
Place the skewers over direct heat and grill for about 4–5 minutes per side. Rotate the skewers a quarter turn every few minutes to get a nice, even char. Total grilling time should be 16–20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken.

If you’re using a grill pan, heat it over medium-high, add a bit of oil, and cook the skewers in batches until golden brown and cooked through.

6. Warm the Pita

Brush your pita breads lightly with olive oil and warm them on the grill for about 30 seconds per side, just until soft and slightly toasted.

7. Assemble Your Souvlaki

Remove the chicken from the skewers and place it onto the warm pita. Top with sliced tomatoes, red onions, and a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce.

How to Serve

Chicken Souvlaki is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Here are a few ideas:

Serve wrapped in warm pita bread with tzatziki, tomatoes, and onions for a classic Greek street food experience.
Build a bowl with rice or couscous, grilled chicken, fresh cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese.
Make a souvlaki platter with grilled vegetables, hummus, and a fresh cucumber salad on the side.
For a lighter option, serve over a bed of mixed greens with extra lemon juice and a drizzle of olive oil.

Pairing Suggestions

To round out your meal, consider these pairing options:

Side Dishes

Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, feta, and olives
Lemon herb rice pilaf
Roasted potatoes with oregano and garlic
Grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant

Drinks

Sparkling water with lemon slices
Freshly brewed iced tea with mint
A cucumber and mint mocktail

For kids

Serve with soft flatbread, simple hummus, and raw veggie sticks on the side

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing Instructions
To freeze, let the cooked chicken cool completely. Arrange the pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.

Reheating Tips
Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or bake at 350°F for about 10–12 minutes. To prevent drying out, add a splash of broth or cover the dish with foil.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the marinade time
Don’t rush this step—the marinade is what gives the chicken its deep, herby flavor.

Overcrowding the skewers
Make sure there’s space between the chicken pieces so they cook evenly.

Using dry herbs only
While dried oregano is great, fresh dill and parsley add unbeatable brightness.

Overcooking the chicken
Watch your grill time carefully. Overcooked chicken turns dry fast.

Forgetting to soak wooden skewers
This can lead to burnt skewers and uneven cooking.

Pro Tips

Use chicken thighs for a juicier option if you prefer dark meat.
Add a splash of the marinade to your rice before serving for extra flavor.
Make extra tzatziki sauce—it’s great as a dip or sandwich spread.
Grill lemon halves alongside the chicken and squeeze them over the skewers before serving.
Double the batch and freeze half for a quick future meal prep solution.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work beautifully and offer a juicier result.

Can I cook this in the oven?
Absolutely. Preheat your oven to 425°F and bake the skewers on a foil-lined baking sheet for about 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
The chicken itself is gluten-free. Just make sure to use gluten-free pita or lettuce wraps.

How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 2 hours is ideal, but overnight is best for full flavor.

What’s the best substitute for white wine vinegar?
You can use apple cider vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute.

Can I make this ahead?
Yes. Marinate the chicken and prep your toppings in advance. Cook just before serving.

Can I air fry the chicken?
Yes, cook the skewers at 380°F for about 12–15 minutes, turning halfway through.

What if I don’t have skewers?
You can grill or pan-cook the marinated chicken pieces without skewers—just keep them evenly sized.

Is the tzatziki sauce necessary?
While optional, it adds a creamy, refreshing balance to the savory chicken.

Can kids eat this?
Definitely. It’s mild in flavor and easy to customize to your child’s taste.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Chicken Souvlaki is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. The fresh marinade, juicy grilled chicken, warm pita, and tangy tzatziki come together in a way that’s comforting, satisfying, and just a little bit exciting. Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining friends, or just treating yourself to something delicious, this recipe delivers.

Give this one a try and let it become part of your regular dinner rotation. And if you do make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Share your thoughts in the comments or tag me in your kitchen creations on social media. Your version of Chicken Souvlaki might just inspire someone else to give it a try too.