The sweet scent of grilled chicken wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to a sun-drenched Mediterranean market. It was here that I first fell in love with Grilled Chicken Souvlaki, a dish that captures the essence of fresh herbs and zesty lemon in every bite. This vibrant, gluten-free recipe is not only a fantastic option for easy weeknight meals, but it’s also incredibly customizable, making it a true crowd-pleaser for any gathering. With just a few simple ingredients and some marinating time, you can create juicy, tender chicken skewers that will wow your family and friends. Are you ready to fire up your grill and indulge in this flavorful journey? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe! Why Is Grilled Chicken Souvlaki So Loved? Bold, Flavorful Experience: The combination of grilled chicken, fresh herbs, and zesty lemon creates an unforgettable taste that dances on your palate. Effortless Preparation: With minimal cooking techniques required, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a quick meal. Versatile Customization: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or spices, making it adaptable to any dietary preference or occasion. Quick Weeknight Meal: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a go-to option for busy weeknights while still feeling special. Perfect for Sharing: Serve these succulent skewers at gatherings, and watch as they disappear fast—everyone loves them! Pair with tzatziki sauce for a delightful touch. Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Ingredients For the Chicken Marinade • Chicken Breasts – Main protein contributing hearty flavor; you can substitute chicken thighs for extra juiciness. • Olive Oil – Helps tenderize the chicken and enhance its flavor; opt for high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best results. • Fresh Lemon Juice – Adds acidity and brightness; if lemon is not available, vinegar can work as a substitute. • Minced Garlic – Offers aromatic depth; stick to fresh garlic for a more intense flavor. • Dried Oregano – Infuses a classic Mediterranean essence; Greek seasoning can be a delightful substitute for a more complex taste. • Ground Cumin – Contributes warmth and earthiness to the marinade. • Salt & Black Pepper – Enhances overall flavor; feel free to adjust to suit your taste preferences. For the Skewers • Wooden or Metal Skewers – Wooden skewers need to be soaked in water to prevent burning; metal skewers can be used directly. • Vegetables (Optional) – Red onion, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes can add vibrant color and nutrition to your skewers; feel free to mix and match! This grilled chicken souvlaki recipe is a true delight, showcasing the lovely Mediterranean flavors in each juicy bite. Enjoy the process of marinating and grilling, and watch as your loved ones savor these flavorful bites! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Step 1: Prep the Chicken Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes, about 1.5 inches in size, ensuring even cooking. Place the chicken pieces in a large mixing bowl, making it easy to coat them with the marinade later. Set aside while you prepare the marinade, as the chicken will absorb the flavors beautifully. Step 2: Make Marinade In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper until well blended. This flavorful mixture will infuse the chicken with an irresistible Mediterranean essence. Aim for a smooth consistency and ensure that the garlic and spices are evenly distributed throughout the marinade. Step 3: Marinate Chicken Pour the marinade over the chicken pieces, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything until the chicken is well covered. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor. This step is crucial for achieving juicy, well-seasoned Grilled Chicken Souvlaki. Step 4: Soak Skewers If you’re using wooden skewers for the souvlaki, now is the time to soak them in water for 20 minutes. This prevents them from burning when placed on the grill. While they soak, you can finalize any additional ingredients, like prepping vegetables to add to your skewers. Step 5: Thread Skewers Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to assemble your skewers. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, alternating with chunks of red onion or any other vegetables you choose. Aim for a visually appealing arrangement, leaving a little space between each piece for even grilling. This will help ensure that your Grilled Chicken Souvlaki cooks perfectly. Step 6: Preheat Grill Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F (200°C). You can use either a charcoal or gas grill—just make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. Achieving the right temperature is key to getting those beautiful grill marks on your chicken. Step 7: Grill Chicken Place the skewers on the preheated grill, cooking for 10 to 12 minutes. Turn the skewers occasionally with tongs to ensure even cooking and char. Look for a nice golden-brown exterior and check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. The aroma will signal that your Grilled Chicken Souvlaki is nearly ready. Step 8: Rest and Serve Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken. Optionally garnish with freshly chopped parsley and crumbled feta cheese. Serve your delicious Grilled Chicken Souvlaki alongside warm pita bread and a crisp Greek salad for a complete meal that’s sure to impress! Storage Tips for Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Fridge: Store leftover grilled chicken souvlaki in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and flavorful. This makes it easy to enjoy later! Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the skewers in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 months. Reheating: When reheating, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. This method keeps the chicken juicy and avoids drying it out. Marinade: If you have leftover marinade, it can be refrigerated for up to a week. Use it to marinate more chicken or as a dressing for salads to enhance the Mediterranean flavors! Make Ahead Options These Grilled Chicken Souvlaki are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can marinate the chicken pieces up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to fully develop. Simply cut the chicken breasts into cubes and mix them with the marinade (olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper), then cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to grill. If you’d like, you can also thread the chicken onto skewers up to 3 hours prior to grilling. Just ensure to refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. To maintain quality, avoid overcrowding on the grill, which could lead to uneven cooking. When it’s time to serve, simply grill for about 10-12 minutes until perfectly cooked, and enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort! What to Serve with Grilled Chicken Souvlaki The delightful aromas of your grilled chicken souvlaki will leave you yearning for complimentary dishes that enhance its Mediterranean flair. Creamy Tzatziki Sauce: This cool, yogurt-based sauce adds a refreshing contrast and a burst of flavor that perfectly balances the grilled chicken’s richness. Greek Salad: Loaded with juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and feta cheese, this salad’s vibrant colors and textures brighten the meal and provide a feel of the Mediterranean sun. Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes offer both sweetness and earthy flavors that complement the souvlaki beautifully. Warm Pita Bread: Serve soft, warm pita on the side for a wonderful, fluffy vehicle for savoring each bite of grilled chicken and tzatziki. Quinoa Tabbouleh: A fresh, herby tabbouleh with quinoa instead of bulgur adds a nutritious twist, spotlighting the vibrant flavors of parsley and mint. Enjoy exploring these pairing ideas to create a meal that wow your friends and family, inviting them to indulge in a delectable journey of Mediterranean flavors! Expert Tips for Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Marination Time: Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes and up to 4 hours for deeper flavor. Avoid rushing this step for the best results. Skewer Soaking: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes. This prevents burning and keeps your grilled chicken souvlaki intact. Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe eating. This guarantees juicy, perfectly cooked chicken! Rest Before Serving: Allow the grilled chicken souvlaki to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices settle, resulting in more succulent bites. Vegetable Variety: Feel free to add bell peppers or zucchini on your skewers. They not only add color but also enhance nutrition in your grilled chicken souvlaki. Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Variations & Substitutions Explore the delicious possibilities to make this dish your own! Each suggestion adds a unique twist to your grilled chicken souvlaki, enticing your taste buds with fresh flavors. Lime Juice: Swap lemon juice for lime juice for a bright and tangy contrast. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a hint of heat. Herb Blend: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic flair. Added Veggies: Toss in zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for vibrant color and added nutrition. Greek Yogurt: Use a dollop of Greek yogurt in your marinade to create a creamier texture and subtle tang. Marinade Time: Allow chicken to marinate overnight for a deeper, more intense flavor experience. Sumac Surprise: Incorporate ground sumac into your spice mix for a unique lemony twist. Garlic Lovers: Increase minced garlic for a more robust and aromatic chicken souvlaki that packs a punch. Feel free to mix and match these variations to create your perfect grilled chicken souvlaki that suits your taste! As you grill to perfection, don’t forget to serve with a side of warm pita and your favorite tzatziki sauce for a truly authentic Greek experience. Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Recipe FAQs What type of chicken is best for souvlaki? I recommend using chicken breasts for a lean and hearty option, but chicken thighs are also fantastic for added juiciness. Both cuts absorb the marinade well and will deliver delicious flavors when grilled. How should I store leftover grilled chicken souvlaki? Leftover grilled chicken souvlaki can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool down before sealing. This way, you can easily enjoy delicious leftovers without any hassle! Can I freeze grilled chicken souvlaki? Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the skewers tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will stay delicious for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. How do I know when my chicken is fully cooked? The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. Ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). This guarantees that your chicken souvlaki is cooked through and safe to eat. You’ll also look for a nice golden-brown crust on the outside! What vegetables can I add to the skewers? Feel free to mix it up! Bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and red onions are wonderful additions that not only enhance color but also boost nutrition. Just cut them into similar sizes as the chicken for even cooking. Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets? Yes, this grilled chicken souvlaki is completely gluten-free! Be sure to double-check any store-bought marinade or sauces you might pair with it. Fresh ingredients and careful selection will keep this dish safe for gluten-sensitive guests. Juicy Grilled Chicken Souvlaki for Effortless Mediterranean Nights This juicy grilled chicken souvlaki captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors with fresh herbs and zesty lemon. Perfect for effortless dinners! Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 12 minutes minsMarination Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 12 minutes mins Servings: 4 skewersCourse: DinnerCuisine: MediterraneanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken Marinade2 lbs Chicken Breasts Can substitute with chicken thighs for extra juiciness.1/4 cup Olive Oil Opt for high-quality extra virgin olive oil.1/4 cup Fresh Lemon Juice Vinegar can be used as a substitute.3 cloves Minced Garlic Use fresh garlic for more intense flavor.2 teaspoons Dried Oregano Greek seasoning can substitute for a more complex taste.1 teaspoon Ground Cumin1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to suit taste.1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust to suit taste.For the Skewers4 pieces Wooden or Metal Skewers Soak wooden skewers in water for 20 minutes before grilling.1 cup Vegetables (Optional) Red onion, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes are great options. Equipment Grillmixing bowlsSkewers Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Grilled Chicken SouvlakiCut the chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes, about 1.5 inches in size, and place in a large mixing bowl.In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper until well blended.Pour the marinade over the chicken pieces, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning.Thread marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, alternating with vegetables if desired.Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F (200°C).Place the skewers on the preheated grill, cooking for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally.Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving, optionally garnishing with parsley and feta cheese. Nutrition Serving: 1skewerCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 30gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg NotesFor best results, marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes and up to 4 hours. Ensure skewers are soaked if using wooden ones to prevent burning. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
