Chicken & Turkey

Chicken Souvlaki

Name: Chicken Souvlaki
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds (675g) chicken breast or thighs, boneless; 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons (30g) freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup (240g) Greek yogurt; 1/2 cup (120g) diced cucumber; 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh dill; 2 tablespoons (30g) chopped fresh parsley

By Odette Ainsworth · June 19, 2026 · Chicken & Turkey

Prep20 min

Cook15 min

Total45 min

Serves4

As a former competitive rower, I know the importance of fueling my body with the right foods. That's why I love making Chicken Souvlaki - it's an easy protein-forward meal that still tastes like dinner. The combination of marinated chicken, crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, served with a refreshing tzatziki sauce, is a perfect way to satisfy my cravings after a long day.

I remember the first time I tried Chicken Souvlaki at a Greek restaurant. The flavors were so vibrant and exciting that I knew I had to learn how to make it at home. After some trial and error, I finally perfected my recipe, and now I'm excited to share it with you.

This recipe is special because it's made with simple, accessible ingredients that you can find at most grocery stores. The best part is that it's incredibly easy to make, even for a beginner. With just a few ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends.

Chicken Souvlaki is a great option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It's perfect for anyone who loves Greek food or is looking for a new and exciting recipe to try. Whether you're a busy professional or a parent looking for a quick and easy meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

In this recipe, I'll guide you through the process of making Chicken Souvlaki from scratch. From marinating the chicken to making the tzatziki sauce, I'll share my tips and techniques to ensure that your dish turns out delicious and authentic.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
The dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
The combination of marinated chicken and tzatziki sauce is a match made in heaven.
The recipe is highly customizable, so you can adjust the flavors to your liking.
The dish is healthy and nutritious, making it a great option for those looking for a guilt-free meal.
The recipe is perfect for beginners, as it requires minimal cooking techniques and is hard to mess up.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to making great Chicken Souvlaki is in the marinade. By using a combination of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, we can create a flavorful and aromatic marinade that tenderizes the chicken and adds depth to the dish. The acidity in the lemon juice helps to break down the proteins in the chicken, making it more tender and juicy.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the cooking technique. By grilling the chicken over medium-high heat, we can achieve a nice char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. This is because the high heat helps to sear the outside of the chicken, locking in the juices and flavors.

The tzatziki sauce is also a crucial component of this dish. Made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill, it provides a refreshing and cooling contrast to the rich and savory chicken. The creaminess of the yogurt helps to balance out the acidity in the lemon juice, creating a well-rounded and harmonious flavor profile.

Finally, the resting time is essential to allowing the chicken to retain its juices and flavors. By letting it rest for a few minutes before serving, we can ensure that the chicken stays tender and juicy, and that the flavors have a chance to meld together.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious Chicken Souvlaki, you'll need a few simple ingredients. The most important thing is to use high-quality chicken breast or thighs, as they will provide the best flavor and texture. You'll also need some basic pantry staples like olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs.

When shopping for ingredients, be sure to choose fresh and vibrant produce. The cucumber and dill used in the tzatziki sauce should be fresh and have a nice aroma. The Greek yogurt should be full-fat and have a rich, creamy texture.

1 1/2 pounds (675g) chicken breast or thighs, bonelessIt's essential to use high-quality chicken for this recipe, as it will provide the best flavor and texture. You can use either breast or thighs, depending on your preference.
1/4 cup (60ml) olive oilOlive oil is a crucial component of the marinade, as it adds flavor and tenderizes the chicken. Use a high-quality olive oil for the best results.
2 cloves garlic, mincedGarlic is a fundamental flavor component in many Greek dishes, and it adds a rich, savory flavor to the chicken. Be sure to mince it finely to release its full flavor potential.
2 tablespoons (30g) freshly squeezed lemon juiceLemon juice is a key ingredient in the marinade, as it adds a bright, citrusy flavor and helps to tenderize the chicken. Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best results.
1 teaspoon dried oreganoOregano is a classic herb used in Greek cuisine, and it adds a pungent, earthy flavor to the chicken. Use dried oregano for the best results, as it has a more concentrated flavor than fresh oregano.
1/2 teaspoon saltSalt is essential for bringing out the flavors in the chicken and adding depth to the dish. Use a high-quality salt, such as kosher salt or sea salt, for the best results.
1/4 teaspoon black pepperBlack pepper is a fundamental seasoning in many dishes, and it adds a sharp, peppery flavor to the chicken. Use freshly ground black pepper for the best results.
1 cup (240g) Greek yogurtGreek yogurt is a crucial component of the tzatziki sauce, as it adds a rich, creamy texture and a tangy flavor. Use full-fat Greek yogurt for the best results.
1/2 cup (120g) diced cucumberCucumber is a refreshing and cooling ingredient that adds a nice contrast to the rich chicken. Use a fresh, vibrant cucumber for the best results.
1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh dillDill is a classic herb used in Greek cuisine, and it adds a bright, fresh flavor to the tzatziki sauce. Use fresh dill for the best results, as it has a more delicate flavor than dried dill.
2 tablespoons (30g) chopped fresh parsleyParsley is a versatile herb that adds a fresh, green flavor to the dish. Use fresh parsley for the best results, as it has a more delicate flavor than dried parsley.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large bowlWhiskMeasuring cups and spoonsInstant-read thermometerGrill or grill panCutting boardSharp knife

How to Make Chicken Souvlaki

1
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper to make the marinade.
2
Add the chicken to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 F (74 C). Use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature.
4
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the tzatziki sauce. In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, cucumber, dill, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
5
Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
6
Serve the chicken with the tzatziki sauce, garnished with parsley and lemon wedges.
7
To make the tzatziki sauce more refreshing, you can add a few ice cubes to the bowl and stir well to combine.
8
If you prefer a thicker tzatziki sauce, you can strain it through a fine-mesh sieve to remove excess liquid.
9
To add more flavor to the chicken, you can sprinkle some dried oregano and lemon zest on top of the chicken before serving.
10
To make the dish more substantial, you can serve it with some grilled pita bread or a side salad.
11
To make the dish more impressive, you can garnish it with some fresh herbs and a sprinkle of feta cheese.

Expert Tips

Make sure to use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh herbs and Greek yogurt, to get the best flavor and texture.
Don't overmarinate the chicken, as it can become too salty and tough.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it, to allow the juices to redistribute.
Adjust the amount of garlic and lemon juice to your taste, as some people may find it too strong.
Use a grill or grill pan to get nice char marks on the chicken, which adds texture and flavor.
Serve the dish immediately, as the tzatziki sauce can become too watery if it sits for too long.
Experiment with different herbs and spices to add more flavor to the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overmarinating the chicken, which can make it too salty and tough.
Not cooking the chicken to a safe internal temperature, which can lead to food poisoning.
Not letting the chicken rest before slicing it, which can make it dry and tough.
Using low-quality ingredients, such as old yogurt or wilted herbs, which can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.
Not adjusting the amount of garlic and lemon juice to your taste, which can make the dish too strong or overpowering.
Not serving the dish immediately, which can make the tzatziki sauce too watery and unappetizing.

Variations and Substitutions

Add some diced onions or bell peppers to the marinade for extra flavor.
Use different types of protein, such as pork or lamb, for a different flavor profile.
Add some heat to the dish by incorporating red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
Use different types of yogurt, such as coconut or almond yogurt, for a non-dairy version.
Add some fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, to the tzatziki sauce for extra flavor.
Use different types of citrus, such as lime or orange, for a different flavor profile.
Add some crumbled feta cheese to the tzatziki sauce for extra flavor and texture.

What to Serve With Chicken Souvlaki

Chicken Souvlaki is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. You can serve it as a main course, with some grilled pita bread and a side salad, or as an appetizer, with some toothpicks and a side of tzatziki sauce.

Some popular sides to serve with Chicken Souvlaki include grilled vegetables, such as bell peppers and zucchini, or a refreshing salad, such as a Greek salad or a simple green salad.

Grilled pita breadSide saladGreek saladSimple green saladGrilled vegetablesRoasted potatoesSteamed broccoli

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Chicken Souvlaki can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 2 months. To store it, place the cooked chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze it.

To reheat the chicken, simply microwave it for a few minutes or grill it until it's heated through. You can also reheat it in the oven, at 350 F (175 C), for about 10-15 minutes.

The tzatziki sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Simply place it in an airtight container and refrigerate it.

To freeze the tzatziki sauce, place it in an ice cube tray and freeze it. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best type of chicken to use for Chicken Souvlaki?

The best type of chicken to use for Chicken Souvlaki is boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs. You can use either one, depending on your preference.

How long do I need to marinate the chicken?

You should marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but no more than 2 hours. The longer you marinate it, the more flavorful it will be.

What is the internal temperature of cooked chicken?

The internal temperature of cooked chicken should be at least 165 F (74 C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.

Can I make Chicken Souvlaki ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Chicken Souvlaki ahead of time. Simply cook the chicken and store it in the refrigerator or freezer until you're ready to serve it. You can also make the tzatziki sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

What is the best way to serve Chicken Souvlaki?

Chicken Souvlaki can be served in a variety of ways, such as a main course, an appetizer, or a snack. You can serve it with grilled pita bread, a side salad, or as a topping for a salad or wrap.

Can I use different types of protein for Chicken Souvlaki?

Yes, you can use different types of protein, such as pork or lamb, for a different flavor profile. Simply marinate and cook the protein as you would the chicken.

How do I make the tzatziki sauce?

To make the tzatziki sauce, simply combine the Greek yogurt, cucumber, dill, salt, and pepper in a bowl and mix well to combine. You can adjust the amount of garlic and lemon juice to your taste.

Can I freeze the tzatziki sauce?

Yes, you can freeze the tzatziki sauce. Simply place it in an ice cube tray and freeze it. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months.

The Full Recipe

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