Chicken souvlaki

Chicken souvlaki features marinated chicken grilled to perfection, served with fresh vegetables, olives, and feta cheese in warm pita bread. This simple Greek dish offers a delicious combination of tangy and herbaceous flavors, making it ideal for any meal or gathering.

25 Dec 2025
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

2 tbsp vinegar
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp dried oregano
1 tbsp fresh thyme
1/4 cup olive oil
4 chicken breasts
2 tomatoes
1 onion
1/3 cup olives
1/2 cup feta cheese
1/4 cup fresh parsley
4 pita breads

Chicken Souvlaki is a classic Greek dish known for its flavorful marinated chicken and traditional accompaniments. This recipe pairs perfectly marinated chicken with fresh vegetables and herbs, all wrapped up in warm pita bread. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or a casual get-together, this Chicken Souvlaki recipe is sure to impress.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:
- In a large bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of vinegar, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of dried oregano, 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme, and 1/4 cup of olive oil. Mix well.

2. Marinate the Chicken:
- Cut the 4 chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

3. Prepare the Vegetables:
- While the chicken is marinating, chop 2 tomatoes and 1 onion into small pieces.
- Slice 1/3 cup of olives (if they are not pre-sliced).

4. Cook the Chicken:
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers.
- Grill the chicken skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char on the outside.

5. Assemble the Souvlaki:
- Heat the 4 pita breads either on the grill for a minute each side or in the oven until warm.
- Distribute the grilled chicken evenly among the pitas.
- Top each pita with chopped tomatoes, onion pieces, sliced olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley (1/4 cup) over the top for a burst of freshness.

6. Serve:
- Serve immediately while still warm.
- Enjoy your homemade chicken souvlaki with a side of tzatziki sauce or your favorite Greek sides.

Enjoy your delicious and aromatic Chicken Souvlaki! The combination of marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy feta cheese wrapped in warm pita bread makes for a truly satisfying meal. Serve with your favorite side dishes or a refreshing Greek salad to complete the experience.

Chicken souvlaki FAQ:

How long should I marinate the chicken for Chicken Souvlaki?

You should marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. For a more intense flavor, marinating it for up to 2 hours is recommended.

How can I tell when the chicken is cooked through on the grill?

The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is no longer pink in the center. It should also have a nice char on the outside after grilling for about 10-15 minutes.

What size skewers should I use for Chicken Souvlaki?

Use standard bamboo or metal skewers that are about 10-12 inches long. If using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken for later use?

Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken. Make sure to place it in an airtight container or a freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

What are some common substitutions for ingredients in Chicken Souvlaki?

You can substitute lemon juice with lime juice, or use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier flavor. Fresh herbs can replace dried ones, but use about three times the amount.

Tips:

- Marinate the chicken for at least 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate fully.

- If available, use a grill for cooking the chicken to achieve a nice smoky flavor.

- Warm the pita breads slightly before serving to make them more pliable and easier to wrap.

- Feel free to adjust the quantity of herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.

- For a complete meal, serve the souvlaki with a side of tzatziki sauce and a Greek salad.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 450kcal
Protein 40g
Carbohydrates 45g
Fiber 9g
Sugar 5g
Fat 27g

Chicken souvlaki