The scent of sizzling skewers wafted through the warm summer air as I wandered through the bustling streets of Athens. The laughter of families, the chatter of friends, and the rhythmic sound of Greek music filled the atmosphere. It was my first visit to Greece, and I had one mission—to experience the country’s most beloved street food, chicken souvlaki.

I still remember stepping up to a small, family-owned souvlaki shop where an elderly Greek man, with a smile as warm as the Mediterranean sun, handed me a freshly grilled skewer wrapped in soft pita bread and drizzled with cool, garlicky tzatziki. The first bite was pure magic—succulent, smoky chicken infused with lemon and herbs, balanced by the refreshing yogurt sauce. That moment was more than just a meal; it was a connection to generations of Greek culinary heritage.

From that day on, I knew I had to bring this taste home. After countless experiments, learning from Greek chefs, and perfecting the balance of flavors, I finally found the most authentic Greek chicken souvlaki recipe—one that captures the heart of Greek cuisine. Today, I’m thrilled to share this recipe with you, so you can experience the magic of Greece in your own kitchen.

The Legacy of Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Greek chicken souvlaki is more than just a dish—it’s a symbol of Greece’s rich culinary history. The word “souvlaki” comes from the Greek word “souvla,” meaning skewer, and has been a staple of Greek cuisine for centuries. Some historians believe that its origins trace back to ancient Greece, where soldiers grilled small pieces of meat over open flames using their swords.

Over time, souvlaki evolved from a simple survival food to a cherished part of Greek culture. Whether enjoyed at a seaside taverna, from a street vendor in bustling cities, or at family gatherings, souvlaki represents the essence of Greek hospitality—simple, flavorful, and made with love.

Why This Greek Chicken Souvlaki Stands Out

Authenticity is key when recreating Greek dishes, and this chicken souvlaki recipe stays true to tradition. Here’s what makes it special:

1. Aromatic Marinade: The chicken is infused with a combination of garlic, oregano, rosemary, lemon juice, and olive oil, creating layers of rich, Mediterranean flavors.
2. Charred Perfection: The skewers are grilled to achieve a slightly crispy, smoky exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
3. Creamy Tzatziki: A homemade tzatziki sauce, made with fresh cucumbers, Greek yogurt, and garlic, adds the perfect cooling contrast to the warm, seasoned chicken.
4. Authentic Pairings: Served with warm Greek pita, fresh tomatoes, red onions, and crispy fried potatoes, this dish captures the full Greek souvlaki experience.

Ingredients: The Building Blocks of Flavor

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 2 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimmed and cut into 1 ½-inch pieces
• 10 garlic cloves, peeled
• 2 tablespoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• ¼ cup dry white wine
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 bay leaves

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cucumber
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 500 grams (18 ounces) strained Greek yogurt
• 1–2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• Pinch of salt

To Serve:

• 8 Greek pita breads
• Olive oil
• 1–2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 tomato, sliced
• 1 red onion, sliced
• Fried potatoes (optional)
• Romaine lettuce (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 8–9 wooden skewers

Directions: Crafting the Perfect Souvlaki

1. Marinating the Chicken:
   • In a food processor, combine garlic, oregano, rosemary, paprika, salt, pepper, olive oil, white wine, and lemon juice. Pulse until well combined.
   • Place chicken pieces and bay leaves in a large bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for optimal flavor.
2. Preparing the Tzatziki Sauce:
   • Peel and grate the cucumber. Sprinkle with salt and let it sit for 10 minutes to release excess water. Wrap the grated cucumber in a towel and squeeze out the moisture.
   • In a bowl, combine the cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, Greek yogurt, red wine vinegar, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
3. Assembling the Skewers:
   • Soak wooden skewers in water for 30–45 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving some space between each piece for even cooking.
4. Grilling the Souvlaki:
   • Preheat an outdoor grill or griddle pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates.
   • Grill the chicken skewers, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 8–10 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
5. Preparing the Pita Bread:
   • Brush pita breads with olive oil on both sides and sprinkle with dried oregano. Preheat the oven to 250°C (482°F). Place the pitas on a baking tray and bake for 2 minutes, or grill them on the griddle pan until warm and slightly crispy.
6. Serving Suggestions:
   • Serve the chicken souvlaki hot, accompanied by warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, sliced tomatoes, red onions, fried potatoes, and romaine lettuce if desired. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Nutritional Information: A Balanced Indulgence

Per Serving (1 skewer):

• Calories: 191 kcal
• Protein: 23.3 g
• Carbohydrates: 5.6 g
• Dietary Fiber: 0.8 g
• Sugars: 0.3 g
• Fat: 8.3 g
• Saturated Fat: 1.4 g
• Cholesterol: 72.4 mg
• Sodium: 279.8 mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient choices and serving sizes.

Culinary Notes:

• For an authentic experience, serve the souvlaki wrapped in pita with tzatziki, tomatoes, onions, and fried potatoes.
• Marinating the chicken overnight enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Ensure wooden skewers are soaked to prevent burning during grilling.

Enjoy crafting this traditional Greek dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean to your table!

The Art of Pairing: What to Serve with Greek Chicken Souvlaki

To create a complete Greek feast, pair your souvlaki with these traditional accompaniments:

Classic Sides

• Greek Salad (Horiatiki): A vibrant mix of ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, Kalamata olives, red onions, and feta cheese, dressed in olive oil and oregano.
• Lemon Rice: A fragrant rice dish infused with lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs.
• Roasted Potatoes: Crispy Greek-style potatoes seasoned with lemon, oregano, and garlic.

Refreshing Beverages

• Ouzo: A traditional anise-flavored Greek spirit, best served with ice.
• Greek White Wine: A crisp Assyrtiko or a light Moschofilero complements the citrusy flavors of the chicken.
• Homemade Lemonade: A simple yet refreshing drink that balances the savory spices of the souvlaki.

Health Benefits of Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Not only is this dish incredibly delicious, but it’s also packed with nutritional benefits:

• Lean Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of protein, supporting muscle growth and overall health.
• Healthy Fats: Olive oil, a staple in the Mediterranean diet, is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
• Gut-Friendly Probiotics: Greek yogurt in the tzatziki sauce aids digestion and promotes gut health.
• Antioxidant-Rich Herbs: Oregano, rosemary, and garlic contain antioxidants that help fight inflammation.

By choosing wholesome, fresh ingredients, Greek chicken souvlaki offers a balanced meal that nourishes both the body and soul.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make chicken souvlaki without a grill?

Yes! If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the skewers on a stovetop griddle pan, a cast-iron skillet, or even bake them in the oven. For best results, broil the skewers on high for a few minutes at the end to achieve a smoky char.

2. How long should I marinate the chicken?

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours. However, if you have time, letting it marinate overnight enhances the depth of flavor.

3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs have more fat, making them even juicier and more flavorful when grilled. Adjust cooking time accordingly, as they may take slightly longer than chicken breasts.

4. What is the best way to store and reheat souvlaki?

Store leftover souvlaki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid using the microwave, as it can dry out the chicken.

5. Can I freeze marinated chicken for later use?

Yes! You can freeze the marinated raw chicken for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before grilling.

6. Is there a vegetarian alternative to this dish?

For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with marinated tofu or mushrooms, and grill them just like you would the chicken skewers.

Conclusion: A Taste of Greece in Every Bite

Greek chicken souvlaki is more than just a recipe—it’s an experience, a connection to Greek culture, and a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re making it for a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, this dish brings people together with its irresistible flavors.

Every bite carries the warmth of the Mediterranean sun, the tradition of Greek street food, and the joy of a well-crafted meal. If you’ve never had homemade souvlaki before, now is the perfect time to bring this authentic Greek delight into your kitchen.

So, fire up the grill, wrap your skewers, and let the flavors transport you straight to the heart of Greece. Opa!

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