Description
Chicken Souvlaki is a classic Greek dish featuring tender pieces of marinated chicken grilled to perfection with a flavorful blend of oregano, garlic, lemon, and spices. Served with warm grilled pita and a fresh garnish, this quick and easy recipe delivers vibrant Mediterranean flavors ideal for a weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade
- 3 tbsp fresh oregano (or 1.5 tbsp dried oregano)
- 1 tbsp garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ cup lemon juice (from about 1 lemon)
- ½ tsp cumin powder
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ tsp chili flakes
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper (freshly cracked)
Other
- Chicken (cut into 1-2 inch pieces)
- Grilled pita (for serving)
- Oil spray (for grilling)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl or sealable bag, combine oregano, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, cumin powder, parsley, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated to create a fragrant marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Cut the chicken into 1-2 inch pieces. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, toss to coat them evenly, then cover and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse—optional overnight marination enhances flavor depth.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Skewer the marinated chicken pieces or use a grill pan. Grill the chicken for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked through and has a light char on the outside for smoky flavor.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and serve immediately with warm grilled pita bread, rice, or a fresh Greek salad. Garnish with additional chopped parsley for a fresh herbal note.
Notes
- Marinate overnight for a more intense flavor.
- Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts based on preference.
- Adjust chili flakes for desired spiciness.
- Grilling the pita adds a nice smoky touch and warms it up.
- Can be served with tzatziki sauce for extra creaminess.
