Description
This Chicken Souvlaki recipe features tender, marinated chicken pieces grilled to perfection with a blend of fresh herbs and spices, served with warm pita bread. A classic Greek dish that’s quick to prepare and bursting with Mediterranean flavors.
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)
Main
- Chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-2 inch pieces (quantity implied for 3 servings: approximately 1 to 1.5 pounds)
- 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 to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Cut the chicken into 1-2 inch pieces and add them to the marinade. Toss to coat the pieces evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse; for best results, marinate overnight.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly spray with oil to prevent sticking. Skewer the marinated chicken pieces or place them directly on the grill. Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked through and has a light char on the outside.
- Serve: Serve the chicken souvlaki hot, alongside grilled pita bread. Optionally, accompany with rice or a fresh Greek salad and garnish with extra parsley for added flavor and color.
Notes
- Marinating overnight will deepen the flavors and tenderize the chicken further.
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts for juicier meat.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- You can adapt the recipe for an indoor grill pan if you don’t have an outdoor grill.
- Serve with tzatziki sauce for an authentic Greek touch.
