Savor the Mediterranean: Greek-American Chicken Souvlaki Recipe!

Chicken Souvlaki is a delicious and popular Greek-American dish that brings together the best of both cultures.

This flavorful, grilled chicken recipe is typically served on skewers with a medley of fresh vegetables, pita bread, and a savory tzatziki sauce.

The combination of aromatic spices, tender chicken, and satisfying accompaniments makes it a perfect dish for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings.

What is Chicken Souvlaki?

Chicken Souvlaki is a Greek dish that involves marinating pieces of chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, and spices, then grilling them to perfection on skewers.

The word “souvlaki” translates to “little skewer” in Greek, referencing the skewered nature of the meat.

While the dish originates from Greece, it has been embraced worldwide, especially in Greek-American cuisine, where it is often served with pita bread, fresh vegetables, and a yogurt-based sauce called tzatziki.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Souvlaki recipe is sure to become a favorite for several reasons. First, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or weekend get-togethers.

Second, the flavors are vibrant yet balanced, offering a refreshing mix of tangy, herbal, and savory notes.

Whether you’re grilling it on the barbecue or cooking it in a skillet, the chicken comes out perfectly tender, juicy, and full of flavor.

Lastly, it’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit your tastes and served with a variety of sides to complete the meal.

Key Ingredients for Greek-American Chicken Souvlaki

Chicken Breasts or Thighs

The star of this dish is the chicken. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are typically used for their tender texture and ability to absorb the flavors of the marinade.

Olive Oil

A good-quality olive oil serves as the base for the marinade, providing richness and moisture to the chicken while enhancing the overall flavor.

Garlic

Fresh garlic is essential for adding a pungent, aromatic depth to the marinade, giving the chicken a savory foundation.

Lemon Juice

Lemon juice adds a bright, zesty acidity that helps balance the richness of the olive oil and tenderizes the chicken.

Herbs & Spices

Dried oregano is a must for that classic Greek flavor, along with a pinch of salt, pepper, and sometimes paprika for a hint of smokiness. Some variations also include thyme or cumin for additional depth.

Tzatziki Sauce (Optional)

While not part of the chicken itself, tzatziki is the perfect companion to chicken souvlaki. This creamy, tangy cucumber and yogurt sauce adds an extra layer of freshness and flavor when drizzled over the chicken.

These ingredients come together to create a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress both family and friends.

How to Make Greek-American Chicken Souvlaki

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by preparing the marinade for the chicken. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and any additional spices you prefer. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended. This marinade not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the chicken, making it juicy and flavorful.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces or strips, depending on your preference. Place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2-3 hours, to allow the flavors to soak into the chicken.

Step 3: Prepare the Grill or Skillet

While the chicken is marinating, prepare your grill or skillet. If you’re grilling, preheat the grill to medium-high heat. For a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Make sure the cooking surface is hot before you start cooking the chicken.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Once the chicken has marinated, thread the pieces onto skewers (if using a grill) or directly add them to the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is golden brown with a slight char. Be careful not to overcook, as chicken can become dry if left on the heat for too long.

Step 5: Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skewers (if grilled) and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and tender.

Serving Suggestions for Greek-American Chicken Souvlaki

Pita Bread or Flatbread

Serve the grilled chicken souvlaki in warm pita or flatbread for a traditional touch. The soft, pillowy bread complements the juicy chicken and allows you to create wraps or sandwiches with the various toppings.

Tzatziki Sauce

A cool and creamy tzatziki sauce is the perfect pairing for chicken souvlaki. The tangy yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill bring a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the grilled chicken. You can either drizzle it on top or serve it on the side for dipping.

Fresh Vegetables

Sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions add freshness and crunch to the dish. These vegetables not only enhance the flavor but also add vibrant color, making the dish more visually appealing.

Greek Salad

For a more complete meal, pair your chicken souvlaki with a classic Greek salad. The combination of crisp lettuce, kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a light olive oil dressing will perfectly complement the grilled chicken and give you a balanced meal.

Rice or Roasted Potatoes

If you prefer something heartier, serve the chicken souvlaki alongside a side of fluffy rice or crispy roasted potatoes. These sides are perfect for soaking up any extra sauce or marinade.

These serving suggestions elevate the dish and make it a versatile option that can be enjoyed in various ways, depending on your preferences or the occasion.

Conclusion

Greek-American Chicken Souvlaki is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that brings together the best of Greek cuisine with American comfort. Its simple yet delicious combination of marinated, grilled chicken and fresh, vibrant accompaniments makes it a crowd-pleaser for any meal. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, preparing a weeknight dinner, or just craving something flavorful, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. With the versatility to pair with pita, fresh veggies, and tzatziki sauce, it’s a perfect balance of flavors that everyone will enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe! They tend to be more flavorful and juicy due to their higher fat content. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook compared to breasts.

2. How long can I marinate the chicken?

For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. However, you can marinate it for up to 2-3 hours in the fridge. If you want to marinate it longer, overnight is fine as well. Just be cautious not to exceed 24 hours, as the acidic lemon juice may start to break down the chicken too much.

3. Can I make Chicken Souvlaki in the oven?

Yes, you can make chicken souvlaki in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes, turning the chicken halfway through. This method will give you tender chicken, though it won’t have the same char as grilling.

4. Is Chicken Souvlaki gluten-free?

Yes, chicken souvlaki is naturally gluten-free if served without pita bread. The chicken itself and the marinade are gluten-free, but if you’re serving it with pita, you’ll want to make sure to use a gluten-free alternative if necessary.

5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day ahead and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Additionally, you can grill or cook the chicken ahead of time and reheat it when needed. The chicken still tastes great the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.