Grilled

Chicken Souvlaki

Name: Chicken Souvlaki
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) chicken thighs, boneless, skinless; 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp (30g) freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1 tsp (5g) dried oregano; 1 tsp (5g) paprika; 1/2 tsp (2g) salt; 1/4 tsp (1g) black pepper; 1 cup (120g) Greek yogurt; 1/2 cup (60g) diced cucumber; 2 tbsp (30g) chopped fresh dill

By Xenia Larkin · June 19, 2026 · Grilled

Prep30 min

Cook20 min

Total50 min

Serves4

There's something special about the combination of juicy chicken, crispy vegetables, and tangy tzatziki sauce that makes Chicken Souvlaki a staple of Greek cuisine. As a home cook, I've always been fascinated by the simplicity and flavor of this dish, and I'm excited to share my own recipe with you.

I remember my first taste of Chicken Souvlaki like it was yesterday - the smoky flavor of the grill, the crunch of the vegetables, and the cooling sensation of the tzatziki sauce all combined to create a truly unforgettable experience. Since then, I've been on a mission to perfect my own recipe, and I'm thrilled to share the result with you.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a delicious and easy-to-make meal that's sure to please even the pickiest eaters. With its combination of tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and creamy tzatziki sauce, Chicken Souvlaki is a dish that's sure to become a staple in your household.

One of the things I love about this recipe is its versatility - it's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a summer barbecue, or even a special occasion like a birthday or anniversary. And the best part? It's incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills.

So if you're looking for a recipe that's sure to impress your family and friends, look no further than Chicken Souvlaki. With its rich flavors, tender chicken, and creamy tzatziki sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
It's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer barbecue.
The combination of juicy chicken, crispy vegetables, and tangy tzatziki sauce is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
It's a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways, from a casual snack to a special occasion meal.
It's a great way to get your daily dose of protein and vegetables.
It's a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional fast food.
It's a fun and interactive dish that's perfect for a family dinner or a party.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to making great Chicken Souvlaki is to cook the chicken to the right temperature, which is 165 F (74 C). This ensures that the chicken is juicy and tender, while also being safe to eat. To achieve this, it's essential to use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken.

Another important factor is the marinade, which helps to add flavor and moisture to the chicken. By using a combination of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, we can create a marinade that's both delicious and effective.

The type of chicken used is also crucial, as it affects the final texture and flavor of the dish. I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs, which are tender and juicy, and have a rich, meaty flavor.

Finally, the cooking method is essential, as it helps to create a crispy exterior and a juicy interior. By grilling the chicken over medium-high heat, we can achieve a nice char on the outside, while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious Chicken Souvlaki, you'll need a few simple ingredients, including chicken thighs, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. You'll also need some basic pantry staples, such as salt, pepper, and paprika.

When shopping for ingredients, be sure to choose fresh and high-quality items, as they will make a big difference in the final flavor and texture of the dish. For example, use fresh lemons and garlic, and choose chicken thighs that are plump and juicy.

1 lb (450g) chicken thighs, boneless, skinlessI recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs, which are tender and juicy, and have a rich, meaty flavor. You can also use chicken breast, but thighs are more flavorful and moist.
1/4 cup (60ml) olive oilOlive oil is a key ingredient in this recipe, as it helps to add flavor and moisture to the chicken. Use a high-quality olive oil that has a rich, fruity flavor.
2 cloves garlic, mincedGarlic is a fundamental ingredient in many Greek dishes, and it adds a rich, savory flavor to the chicken. Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
2 tbsp (30g) freshly squeezed lemon juiceLemon juice is a key ingredient in the marinade, as it helps to add brightness and acidity to the dish. Use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
1 tsp (5g) dried oreganoOregano is a classic herb in Greek cuisine, and it adds a pungent, earthy flavor to the chicken. Use dried oregano for the best flavor.
1 tsp (5g) paprikaPaprika is a sweet, smoky spice that adds depth and complexity to the dish. Use sweet paprika for the best flavor.
1/2 tsp (2g) saltSalt is a fundamental ingredient in many dishes, and it helps to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients. Use kosher salt for the best flavor.
1/4 tsp (1g) black pepperBlack pepper is a classic seasoning that adds a sharp, peppery flavor to the dish. Use freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor.
1 cup (120g) Greek yogurtGreek yogurt is a key ingredient in the tzatziki sauce, as it helps to add creaminess and tanginess to the dish. Use full-fat Greek yogurt for the best flavor.
1/2 cup (60g) diced cucumberCucumber is a refreshing ingredient that adds a cool, crunchy texture to the tzatziki sauce. Use fresh cucumber for the best flavor.
2 tbsp (30g) chopped fresh dillDill is a classic herb in Greek cuisine, and it adds a bright, fresh flavor to the tzatziki sauce. Use fresh dill for the best flavor.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large bowlWhiskMeasuring cups and spoonsInstant-read thermometerGrill or grill panCutting boardChef's knife

How to Make Chicken Souvlaki

1
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper to make the marinade.
2
Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 F (74 C). Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature.
4
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the tzatziki sauce. In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, diced cucumber, and chopped fresh dill.
5
Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
6
Serve the chicken with the tzatziki sauce, garnished with additional fresh dill and lemon wedges if desired.
7
To make the dish more substantial, serve with pita bread, tomato, onion, and a side of mixed greens.
8
For a more authentic Greek experience, serve with a side of roasted potatoes or grilled vegetables.
9
To add some crunch to the dish, top the chicken with toasted pine nuts or chopped fresh parsley.
10
To make the dish more spicy, add some red pepper flakes to the marinade or serve with a side of hot sauce.
11
To make the dish more refreshing, serve with a side of mixed greens or a simple green salad.

Expert Tips

Make sure to cook the chicken to the right temperature, which is 165 F (74 C).
Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken.
Don't overcook the chicken, as it can become dry and tough.
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing it, as this helps to retain the juices.
Use fresh and high-quality ingredients, as they will make a big difference in the final flavor and texture of the dish.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and spices to make the dish your own.
Consider serving the dish with a side of roasted potatoes or grilled vegetables for a more substantial meal.
To make the dish more authentic, serve with a side of mixed greens or a simple green salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not cooking the chicken to the right temperature, which can result in food poisoning.
Overcooking the chicken, which can make it dry and tough.
Not letting the chicken rest before slicing it, which can result in a less juicy and tender final product.
Using low-quality ingredients, which can affect the final flavor and texture of the dish.
Not whisking the marinade ingredients together properly, which can result in a unevenly flavored dish.
Not cooking the chicken over medium-high heat, which can result in a less crispy exterior and a less juicy interior.

Variations and Substitutions

Add some heat to the dish by incorporating red pepper flakes into the marinade.
Use different types of protein, such as pork or beef, for a variation on the dish.
Add some crunch to the dish by topping the chicken with toasted pine nuts or chopped fresh parsley.
Use different types of citrus, such as lime or orange, for a variation on the marinade.
Add some smokiness to the dish by incorporating smoked paprika into the marinade.
Use different types of yogurt, such as coconut or almond, for a non-dairy variation on the tzatziki sauce.
Add some freshness to the dish by incorporating chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, into the tzatziki sauce.

What to Serve With Chicken Souvlaki

Serve the Chicken Souvlaki with a side of pita bread, tomato, onion, and a simple green salad for a delicious and satisfying meal. You can also serve it with a side of roasted potatoes or grilled vegetables for a more substantial meal.

Consider serving the dish at a summer barbecue or a casual dinner party, as it's perfect for a crowd and can be easily customized to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.

Serve with pita bread and tzatziki sauceServe with a side of mixed greensServe with roasted potatoesServe with grilled vegetablesServe with a side of hummusServe with a side of tabbouleh

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

To store the Chicken Souvlaki, place the cooked chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the chicken for up to 2 months, and then thaw and reheat it when you're ready to serve.

To make the dish ahead of time, prepare the marinade and the tzatziki sauce, and then store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

To reheat the chicken, place it in the oven at 350 F (180 C) for 10-15 minutes, or until it's heated through. You can also reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it.

When reheating the chicken, make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure that it reaches 165 F (74 C) for food safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the internal temperature of cooked chicken?

The internal temperature of cooked chicken should be at least 165 F (74 C).

How long can I store the Chicken Souvlaki in the refrigerator?

You can store the Chicken Souvlaki in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze the Chicken Souvlaki?

Yes, you can freeze the Chicken Souvlaki for up to 2 months. To freeze, place the cooked chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer.

How do I reheat the Chicken Souvlaki?

To reheat the Chicken Souvlaki, place it in the oven at 350 F (180 C) for 10-15 minutes, or until it's heated through. You can also reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it.

What is the best way to serve the Chicken Souvlaki?

The best way to serve the Chicken Souvlaki is with a side of pita bread, tomato, onion, and a simple green salad. You can also serve it with a side of roasted potatoes or grilled vegetables for a more substantial meal.

Can I make the Chicken Souvlaki ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the Chicken Souvlaki ahead of time. Prepare the marinade and the tzatziki sauce, and then store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

How do I prevent the chicken from becoming dry and tough?

To prevent the chicken from becoming dry and tough, make sure to cook it to the right temperature and not to overcook it. You can also let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it, which helps to retain the juices.

Can I use different types of protein for the Chicken Souvlaki?

Yes, you can use different types of protein, such as pork or beef, for a variation on the dish.

The Full Recipe

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