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Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Juicy Greek chicken souvlaki skewers with tzatziki and warm pita bread.
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This recipe delivers supremely tender, flavorful chicken marinated in lemon and herbs. It’s a simple, crowd-pleasing dish that turns a regular weeknight into a sunny Mediterranean escape.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 large lemons)
  • 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Warm pita bread, for serving (optional)
  • Tzatziki sauce, for serving (optional)
  • Sliced red onion, for serving (optional)
  • Chopped fresh tomatoes, for serving (optional)
  • Crisp lettuce, for serving (optional)
  • Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl or resealable bag, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
  2. Add the cubed chicken to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally 4 to 24 hours.
  3. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Preheat a grill, grill pan, or broiler to medium-high heat.
  4. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Thread chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each cube.
  5. Cook skewers for 4-6 minutes per side on the grill or grill pan, turning once, until chicken is cooked through and has golden-brown char. Internal temperature should reach 165°F. If broiling, place skewers on a foil-lined sheet and broil for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway.
  6. Transfer cooked skewers to a plate and let rest for 3-5 minutes. Serve immediately with desired accompaniments like pita, tzatziki, and fresh vegetables.

Notes

For best flavor, do not skip the marinating time. Use fresh lemon juice, not bottled. Do not overcrowd the skewers or grill to ensure proper cooking. Chicken thighs are more forgiving and juicy, but breasts work if watched closely. The recipe is naturally gluten-free; ensure pita and tzatziki are gluten-free if needed.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://harmonymeal.com/greek-chicken-souvlaki-2/