Description
Sizzling Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a classic Mediterranean grilled skewer recipe featuring marinated chicken, red bell peppers, and red onions. Infused with lemon, garlic, and aromatic herbs, this dish delivers vibrant flavors and a perfect char, served alongside warm pita and creamy tzatziki for a delicious and authentic Greek experience.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 0.25 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 0.5 tsp sea salt
- 0.25 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Vegetables and Serving
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 red onion, quartered into wedges
- 4 pita bread, warmed
- 1 cup tzatziki sauce, homemade or store-bought
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, smoked paprika, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, toss to ensure all pieces are evenly coated, then cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably up to 4 hours for maximum flavor infusion.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F (200°C), ensuring it is clean and oiled lightly to prevent sticking.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto skewers, alternating with red bell pepper chunks and red onion wedges to distribute flavors and colors evenly.
- Grill the Souvlaki: Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes to achieve even cooking and attractive grill marks. Check the chicken’s internal temperature to reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes to retain juiciness. Serve with warmed pita bread, a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce, and lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.
Notes
- Soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling prevents burning.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
- Tzatziki sauce can be homemade with Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and dill, or store-bought for convenience.
- Can be cooked on a stovetop grill pan if outdoor grilling is not available.
- Allowing the chicken to marinate longer enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Keywords: Greek chicken souvlaki, grilled chicken skewers, Mediterranean chicken recipe, tzatziki, pita bread, summer grilling
