Chicken Souvlaki Recipe – Easy, and Full of Mediterranean Flavor

There’s something uniquely satisfying about Greek cuisine—it’s vibrant, fresh, and full of bold flavors that bring a burst of sunshine to your plate. Among the most beloved staples of Greek cooking is Chicken Souvlaki Recipe—and once you try it, you’ll understand exactly why it’s such a fan favorite. Tender, juicy chicken pieces marinated in lemon, garlic, and herbs, then grilled or baked to perfection—it’s simple, yet incredibly delicious.

What makes souvlaki stand out is how easy it is to prepare, and yet how deeply flavorful it turns out every time. This is not one of those recipes that demands hours in the kitchen or a mile-long list of ingredients. In fact, you probably already have everything you need in your pantry or fridge. All it takes is a quick mix of olive oil, vinegar, garlic, lemon juice, and a good Greek seasoning blend. Let the chicken soak up all those amazing flavors for a few hours (or overnight if you can), and then cook it any way you like—grilled, baked, or even in the air fryer.

I first fell in love with souvlaki during a summer trip where I was introduced to a little family-owned Greek café. It was one of those hidden gems with just a few tables out front and the scent of grilled meat wafting through the air. I ordered the chicken souvlaki platter, and from the very first bite, I was hooked. The chicken was juicy, zesty, and perfectly charred. Ever since that day, I’ve been testing and tweaking recipes to recreate that unforgettable flavor, and this version is by far my favorite.

Now, it’s a go-to meal in my house. Whether I’m feeding picky eaters or trying to impress guests, this dish always earns rave reviews. It’s quick, affordable, and packed with Mediterranean goodness. If you’re looking for something fresh and flavorful that’s also incredibly easy, Chicken Souvlaki is calling your name.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Souvlaki Recipe Recipe

There are plenty of reasons why this Chicken Souvlaki recipe is worth bookmarking. First and foremost, it’s one of the easiest ways to pack a whole lot of flavor into a weeknight dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. The marinade is simple but powerful—just a few everyday ingredients that come together to create a deliciously tangy, garlicky, herb-forward punch.

You’ll also love how versatile this recipe is. Once the chicken is marinated, you can cook it however you like. Use your outdoor grill to get those irresistible charred edges, fire up your air fryer for a hands-off approach, or bake it in the oven if you’re keeping it cozy indoors. No matter your cooking method, the result is always tender and juicy chicken bites that taste like they came from a restaurant.

This dish is perfect for meal prep, too. You can marinate the chicken ahead of time, freeze it for later, or cook up a big batch and use the leftovers for wraps, salads, or rice bowls throughout the week. It’s also a total crowd-pleaser. Kids love the flavorful but not-too-spicy taste, and adults appreciate the bright Mediterranean flavors. You can serve it with tzatziki, warm pita, crisp veggies, or on a bed of rice. The possibilities are endless.

And let’s not forget about the nutrition. This dish is protein-packed, low in carbs, and full of wholesome ingredients. It fits well into many different eating styles—whether you’re eating clean, trying to go gluten-free, or just looking for a lighter option that still satisfies. So whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a crowd, this Chicken Souvlaki is one of those reliable, feel-good recipes that you’ll come back to again and again.

Health Benefits of this Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Not only is Chicken Souvlaki delicious, but it also brings plenty of health perks to the table. At the heart of this dish is lean chicken, which is an excellent source of high-quality protein. Protein plays a crucial role in building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle health, and keeping you fuller for longer—making this recipe a smart choice for balanced eating.

The marinade, which includes olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, offers its own set of health benefits. Olive oil, in particular, is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. It helps reduce inflammation and may support cardiovascular health when used as a substitute for saturated fats. Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties and its ability to support heart health by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Lemon juice not only adds a bright, tangy flavor to the dish, but it’s also a great source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports your immune system and helps your body absorb iron from food. The fresh herbs and Greek seasoning used in this recipe add layers of flavor without the need for excessive salt or sugar, keeping the dish light and wholesome.

Another great thing about this dish is how customizable it is for different dietary preferences. If you’re watching your carb intake, serve the souvlaki over a crisp salad or with roasted vegetables. Looking for a gluten-free option? Just skip the pita or choose a gluten-free version. You can even make it dairy-free by pairing it with hummus or a dairy-free tzatziki.

All in all, this Chicken Souvlaki recipe manages to be both flavorful and nourishing. It’s proof that healthy food doesn’t have to be bland or complicated. With its balance of protein, healthy fats, and fresh ingredients, this dish is as good for your body as it is for your taste buds.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

When it comes to weeknight cooking, time is everything—and this Chicken Souvlaki recipe is refreshingly quick to prep and cook. Most of the magic happens in the marinade, which you can easily prepare the night before or even the morning of. That means when dinnertime rolls around, all you have to do is cook the chicken using your preferred method and serve.

Let’s break down the timing:

Preparation Time: 10 minutes (excluding marinating time)
Marinating Time: Minimum 6 hours (overnight is best)
Cooking Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: About 30 minutes active time, plus marinating

This recipe yields about 4 servings, making it perfect for a family meal or a small gathering. If you’re meal prepping, feel free to double the batch—this chicken stores beautifully and can be reused in multiple meals.

Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):

Calories: 280
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 2.5g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 420mg

These numbers make it a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a balanced, high-protein, low-carb meal. And because it’s baked, grilled, or air-fried instead of deep-fried, you’re getting all the deliciousness without the excess oil.

Whether you’re trying to eat a bit cleaner, fuel a busy day, or simply want a nourishing dinner, Chicken Souvlaki fits the bill perfectly. Plus, with such a short active prep time, it’s easy to fit into even the most hectic schedule.

Ingredients List of this Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

This Chicken Souvlaki recipe keeps things simple with a handful of everyday ingredients that pack in serious flavor. You’ll find these items in most kitchens, and if not, they’re easily available at any grocery store. Here’s everything you’ll need to serve four:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar (you can also use red wine vinegar if that’s what you have)
4 garlic cloves, minced
3 tablespoons Greek seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
Juice of 1 large lemon
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

Let’s take a closer look at what each ingredient brings to the table:

Chicken: You can use either chicken breasts for a leaner option or chicken thighs for a bit more richness and moisture. Cutting them into bite-size pieces helps them cook faster and evenly.

Olive Oil: This forms the base of the marinade and helps keep the chicken moist and tender. It also allows the flavors of the other ingredients to better penetrate the meat.

White Wine Vinegar: This adds a little tang and helps tenderize the chicken. If you prefer a bolder flavor, red wine vinegar works beautifully too.

Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a robust, savory depth to the marinade and is key to that classic Greek flavor.

Greek Seasoning: You can use a store-bought mix or make your own with a blend of dried oregano, thyme, rosemary, basil, and marjoram. This adds herby complexity without being overpowering.

Lemon Juice: Bright, acidic, and citrusy—lemon juice balances out the olive oil and garlic, giving the chicken that unmistakable Mediterranean zing.

Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.

That’s it—no fancy or complicated ingredients. Just simple staples working together to make something absolutely crave-worthy.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions of this Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to dive into the cooking process. The best part? This recipe is incredibly beginner-friendly. Each step is straightforward, but to help you feel fully confident in your kitchen, I’ll walk you through it in detail.

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Before anything else, you’ll need to get that flavorful marinade going. It’s what gives Chicken Souvlaki its iconic depth and zing. You can prepare it in a medium mixing bowl or, for convenience and easy cleanup, use a large resealable plastic bag.

  • Start by adding 2 tablespoons of olive oil into your bowl or bag.
  • Squeeze in the juice of one large lemon. If your lemon is a bit dry, you can use two small ones or add a splash of bottled lemon juice.
  • Add 1 tablespoon of white wine vinegar. Red wine vinegar works just as well if you prefer a deeper, more robust flavor.
  • Toss in your minced garlic—four cloves, or about 1½ tablespoons. Make sure it’s finely minced so it evenly distributes through the marinade.
  • Sprinkle in 3 tablespoons of Greek seasoning. If you’re using a homemade mix, aim for a balance of dried oregano, thyme, basil, marjoram, and a touch of rosemary.
  • Season with ½ teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper.

Give the marinade a quick whisk with a fork or shake the bag (if using) to combine everything well.

Step 2: Add the Chicken

With your marinade ready, it’s time to introduce the star of the show—the chicken.

  • Cut your boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces, roughly 1 to 1½ inches each. Try to keep them similar in size for even cooking.
  • Add the chicken pieces directly into the bowl or marinade bag.
  • Mix thoroughly so each piece is well coated. If you’re using a bowl, use clean hands or tongs to toss the chicken until fully coated. If you’re using a bag, zip it shut and massage the marinade into the meat for a minute or two.

At this stage, you’ll notice the aroma of lemon and garlic already starting to work their magic. But now, the key is patience.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

To truly soak up all those amazing flavors, your chicken needs time to marinate.

  • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or seal the zip-top bag and place it in the refrigerator.
  • Let the chicken marinate for at least 6 hours. For best results, let it marinate overnight. This extended marination time tenderizes the chicken and allows all the herbs and seasonings to deeply penetrate the meat.

Don’t rush this step if you can help it. While it’s tempting to cook the chicken right away, the longer it sits, the more flavorful and tender it becomes.

Step 4: Prepare the Skewers

If you’re planning to grill the chicken or bake it in the oven using skewers, it’s time to prep those.

  • If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling or baking. This prevents them from burning or catching fire during cooking.
  • Once your chicken is marinated and your skewers are ready, begin threading the chicken pieces onto the skewers. Leave a small space between each piece to allow even cooking.

If you’re using the air fryer or simply baking the chicken pieces without skewers, feel free to skip this step.

Step 5: Choose Your Cooking Method

This is where the recipe becomes flexible. You can grill the chicken, air-fry it, or bake it in the oven, depending on your preference or what equipment you have available.

Option 1: Grill Method (Outdoor or Stovetop Grill Pan)

  • Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
  • Once hot, place the skewers on the grill.
  • Cook for about 12–15 minutes, turning every 3 to 4 minutes to ensure all sides are evenly charred and the chicken is cooked through.
  • Check the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
  • Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and set them aside to rest.

Grilling gives the chicken those irresistible char marks and a slightly smoky flavor that’s hard to beat.

Option 2: Air Fryer Method

  • Preheat your air fryer to 370°F (188°C).
  • Arrange the marinated chicken pieces (skewered or not) in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd.
  • Cook for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through.
  • Again, use a thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  • Remove and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

This method is especially great for quick weeknight meals. The chicken turns out juicy with lightly crisped edges.

Option 3: Oven-Baked Method

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and place a wire rack on top, if available. This allows for better air circulation and even cooking.
  • Lay your skewers or chicken pieces on the rack.
  • Bake for 20–22 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • Broil for an additional 2 to 3 minutes at the end if you want more color or a slightly crispy edge.

This method is super convenient, especially when cooking for a group. It’s also a great option if you want to prepare side dishes at the same time.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

  • Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Wrap loosely in foil to help retain the juices.
  • This step is essential because it allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and tender when sliced or bitten into.

Now your chicken souvlaki is ready to shine. All that’s left to do is decide how you want to enjoy it—and there are so many tasty options to explore.

Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

How to Serve this Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

One of the best parts about Chicken Souvlaki is how adaptable it is. You can keep things casual or dress it up for a more formal meal. Here are a few of my favorite ways to serve it:

Serve in warm pita wraps: This is the classic way to enjoy souvlaki. Layer the grilled chicken in a warm pita with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce. It’s a handheld flavor explosion.

Make a souvlaki bowl: Start with a base of rice or couscous, then top with the chicken, diced veggies, olives, and feta cheese. Drizzle with lemon juice or extra virgin olive oil for a hearty and healthy meal.

Top a Greek salad: Add your souvlaki chicken to a fresh Greek salad with romaine, tomatoes, cucumbers, Kalamata olives, red onion, and a sprinkle of oregano. It’s fresh, filling, and perfect for warm days.

Serve as an appetizer: Place the chicken skewers on a platter with tzatziki or hummus for dipping. Add some grilled pita wedges and olives on the side for a mezze-style starter.

Create a family-style spread: Serve the chicken skewers on a large platter surrounded by bowls of toppings—hummus, chopped veggies, pickles, sauces, and warm flatbreads—so everyone can build their own wrap or bowl.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just making a weeknight meal, this dish can be styled up or down, depending on the vibe. It’s light but filling, fresh but hearty—perfect for any season or occasion.

Pairing Suggestions for this Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

To round out your meal, pair Chicken Souvlaki with sides and drinks that complement its vibrant Mediterranean flavors. Here are some great ideas to inspire your perfect souvlaki spread.

Sides That Work Beautifully

Greek Lemon Potatoes: Roasted until golden and crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and infused with lemon, garlic, and oregano. These potatoes are a match made in heaven for souvlaki.

Orzo Pasta Salad: A refreshing pasta salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, feta, and a lemony vinaigrette. It adds texture and tang to your meal.

Grilled Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and eggplant lightly seasoned and grilled until tender. They bring smoky-sweet contrast to the savory chicken.

Tabbouleh: A herby bulgur salad loaded with parsley, mint, lemon, and tomatoes. It’s light, fresh, and adds brightness to the dish.

Hummus and Pita Chips: Creamy hummus paired with crunchy pita chips is always a crowd-pleaser and adds another layer of Mediterranean flavor.

Drink Pairings (Halal-Friendly)

Sparkling Water with Lemon and Mint: This refreshing, bubbly drink helps cleanse the palate and echoes the citrus notes in the souvlaki.

Cucumber-Lemon Cooler: Blend cucumber, lemon juice, mint, and honey into a cooling drink that balances the warmth of the grilled chicken.

Pomegranate Juice Spritzer: A fizzy pomegranate and club soda mix with a squeeze of lime brings a tart, sweet flavor to the table.

Peach Iced Tea: A fruity, slightly sweet tea is a soothing and flavorful option that pairs well with the spices in the souvlaki.

Pairing your souvlaki with the right sides and drinks takes this dish from simple to spectacular. Whether you’re going casual with a wrap and sparkling water or preparing a full spread with salads and dips, every element adds to the overall experience.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions of this Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Chicken Souvlaki Recipe isn’t just a winner for its flavor—it’s also a superstar when it comes to meal prep and leftovers. Whether you’re cooking for one, feeding a family, or planning ahead for a busy week, this dish is incredibly easy to store, freeze, and reheat.

How to Store Leftovers

If you’ve got leftover cooked chicken, you’re in luck. It keeps well and remains flavorful even after a few days in the fridge.

  • Allow the cooked chicken to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation from forming in the container, which could make the chicken soggy.
  • Store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If the pieces are still on skewers, you can remove them to save space, but it’s not required.
  • Properly stored, cooked Chicken Souvlaki will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.

How to Freeze

Chicken Souvlaki freezes beautifully, both before and after cooking. If you want to batch cook or prep ahead, here’s how to freeze it:

To freeze marinated (uncooked) chicken:

  • Place the chicken and marinade in a freezer-safe zip-top bag.
  • Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing.
  • Label the bag with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • When you’re ready to cook, thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator. Then cook as directed.

To freeze cooked chicken:

  • Let the cooked chicken cool completely.
  • Place in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm.
  • Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. This prevents the chicken pieces from sticking together.
  • Cooked souvlaki can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions

To maintain the juicy texture of the chicken, reheat it gently.

In the oven:

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to retain moisture.
  • Bake for 10–15 minutes or until heated through.

In the air fryer:

  • Set air fryer to 350°F.
  • Reheat for 5–7 minutes, checking halfway to avoid overcooking.

On the stovetop:

  • Heat a non-stick pan over medium-low heat.
  • Add a splash of olive oil or a few tablespoons of water.
  • Add chicken and cover with a lid. Heat until warmed through, about 5–8 minutes.

Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the chicken and make it rubbery. However, if you must use a microwave, place the chicken on a plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second bursts until warm.

Proper storage and reheating techniques make this recipe perfect for meal prepping or enjoying a second round of your delicious Greek feast later in the week.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in this Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Even a simple recipe like Chicken Souvlaki can hit a few bumps if you’re not careful. Let’s go over the most common pitfalls—and how you can easily avoid them for perfect results every time.

Mistake 1: Not Marinating Long Enough

This recipe relies heavily on the marinade to flavor and tenderize the chicken. A quick 30-minute soak just won’t cut it. While it’s better than nothing, the ideal marinating time is at least 6 hours, preferably overnight. The longer soak lets the lemon, garlic, and spices penetrate the chicken and create maximum flavor.

Mistake 2: Overcrowding the Grill, Pan, or Air Fryer

Whether you’re grilling or air frying, overcrowding the cooking surface can lead to uneven cooking. The chicken ends up steaming instead of getting that nice, golden exterior. Always cook in batches if needed, and make sure there’s some space between each piece or skewer.

Mistake 3: Using Too Much Lemon Juice or Vinegar

While acidity is important for flavor and tenderizing, too much can actually toughen the meat or make it taste overly sour. Stick to the recipe’s measurements to get the perfect balance of bright and savory.

Mistake 4: Skipping the Rest Time After Cooking

Once the chicken is cooked, give it a few minutes to rest before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, which means a more tender and flavorful bite. Skipping this step can result in drier chicken.

Mistake 5: Forgetting to Soak Wooden Skewers

If you’re using wooden skewers and forget to soak them, they can burn or even catch fire during cooking. Always soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling or baking.

Avoiding these common mistakes will help you make the best Chicken Souvlaki every single time. When in doubt, go slow, follow the steps carefully, and trust your instincts.

Pro Tips of this Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Let’s take your Chicken Souvlaki from good to absolutely incredible with a few professional tips and tricks that make all the difference in flavor, texture, and presentation.

Tip 1: Use Chicken Thighs for Extra Juiciness

While chicken breasts are lean and quick to cook, chicken thighs offer a richer flavor and stay juicy even if slightly overcooked. If you’re okay with a little extra fat, thighs are often the preferred cut for souvlaki due to their tenderness and flavor.

Tip 2: Don’t Skip the Garlic

Fresh garlic makes a huge impact in the marinade. Use real garlic cloves instead of pre-minced or powdered versions for the best depth of flavor. You can even smash the cloves slightly before mincing to release more oils and aroma.

Tip 3: Massage the Marinade Into the Meat

Whether you’re marinating in a bowl or a zip-top bag, take a minute to massage the marinade into the chicken. This helps coat each piece thoroughly and starts the tenderizing process even before you refrigerate it.

Tip 4: Add a Pinch of Smoked Paprika

Want a subtle smoky flavor without using a grill? Add a pinch of smoked paprika to your Greek seasoning blend. It adds depth and a beautiful golden hue to the cooked chicken.

Tip 5: Finish With a Splash of Lemon Juice

Right before serving, squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the hot chicken. This final burst of acidity enhances the herbs and garlic and brightens every bite.

Tip 6: Make Extra for Leftovers

This dish is one of those meals that tastes just as good the next day, if not better. Double the recipe and thank yourself later when lunch is already made and delicious.

With these pro tips in your back pocket, you’ll consistently turn out chicken souvlaki that’s flavorful, juicy, and restaurant-worthy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Let’s go over some of the most common questions people have about making Chicken Souvlaki at home. Whether you’re a first-timer or just looking for extra insight, these answers will help you feel even more confident in the kitchen.

Can I use store-bought Greek seasoning?

Absolutely! A good store-bought Greek seasoning blend is perfect for this recipe and saves time. Just check the ingredients to make sure there’s no added sugar or preservatives if you’re trying to keep things clean. You can also make your own blend using oregano, thyme, rosemary, basil, marjoram, garlic powder, and a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, both cuts work well in this recipe. Chicken breasts are leaner, while thighs are juicier and a bit more forgiving if slightly overcooked. Just be sure to cut whichever you use into evenly sized pieces so they cook uniformly.

What if I don’t have a grill?

No grill? No problem. This recipe works beautifully in the oven or the air fryer. The oven gives you a hands-off approach, and the air fryer adds a bit of crispiness to the edges.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. You can also cook it ahead of time and reheat it gently, as mentioned earlier. It’s a great option for prepping lunches or a stress-free dinner party.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Definitely. Freeze the raw chicken in its marinade in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before cooking as usual.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The best way to know if your chicken is fully cooked is to use an instant-read meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The outside should be golden and slightly charred, while the inside stays juicy and white.

Is Chicken Souvlaki spicy?

Not at all. The flavors are bold and zesty, but not spicy. If you like a little heat, you can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! The chicken itself is dairy-free. Just skip the tzatziki or use a dairy-free version, and you’re good to go.

Can I cook this on a stovetop?

Yes, use a grill pan or nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken pieces or skewers for about 12–15 minutes, turning every few minutes, until cooked through.

What should I serve with Chicken Souvlaki?

Great question! Scroll back to the “How to Serve” and “Pairing Suggestions” sections for a full breakdown of delicious sides and drinks that go perfectly with this dish.

These FAQs cover most of what you need to know, but if something else pops up, feel free to ask or leave a comment when you try the recipe.

Conclusion & Call to Action

There’s a reason Chicken Souvlaki has stood the test of time as a Mediterranean classic. It’s fast, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re wrapping it in warm pita, tossing it over a salad, or serving it family-style with dips and sides, it always delivers on both taste and texture.

This version of Chicken Souvlaki is one of those no-fuss recipes that makes you feel like a kitchen pro. You’ve got juicy, garlicky, lemony chicken that’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for guests. Plus, the ability to cook it three different ways—grilled, baked, or air-fried—means it works no matter your setup or schedule.

I really hope you give this recipe a try. If you do, be sure to make a little extra—leftovers are just as tasty, and you’ll be glad to have them on hand for wraps, bowls, or salads. And remember, don’t skip the marinade time. That’s where the magic happens.

If you make this Chicken Souvlaki, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Share your tweaks, your serving ideas, or your go-to pairings. Leave a comment below, and if you’re into sharing food photos (aren’t we all?), tag me on Instagram or your favorite social media platform. I love seeing your delicious creations and how you make the recipe your own.

So grab that lemon, chop that garlic, and get ready for a dish that’s simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor from start to finish. You’ve got this—and your kitchen is about to smell amazing.

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Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Chicken Souvlaki Recipe – Easy, and Full of Mediterranean Flavor


  • Author: Clara Whisk
  • Total Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Halal

Description

This Chicken Souvlaki is tender, juicy, and packed with zesty Mediterranean flavor. Marinated in lemon, garlic, and herbs, it’s perfect for grilling, air frying, or baking. Serve it in warm pita, over rice, or on a salad for a fresh and satisfying meal.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tbsp white wine vinegar (or red wine vinegar)

  • 4 garlic cloves, minced

  • 3 tbsp Greek seasoning (homemade or store-bought)

  • Juice of 1 large lemon

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper


Instructions

  • In a bowl or ziplock bag, combine olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, seasoning, salt, and pepper.

  • Add chicken, toss to coat, and marinate for at least 6 hours or overnight.

  • Thread chicken onto skewers (optional).

  • Grill: Cook for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken reaches 165°F.

  • Air Fryer: Cook at 370°F for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway.

  • Oven: Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway. Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for extra color.

  • Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Soak wooden skewers for 30 minutes before grilling.

  • Squeeze fresh lemon over cooked chicken before serving for extra brightness.

  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilled, Air Fried, or Oven Baked
  • Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean

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