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Delicious Chicken Souvlaki with Fresh Herbs and Lemon Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 74 reviews
  • Author: Mary
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 3 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Greek
  • Diet: Halal

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.