Grilled Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon-Garlic Marinade Recipe

If you’re dreaming of a meal that’s vibrant, healthy, and full of Mediterranean sunshine, look no further than Grilled Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon-Garlic Marinade. This dish takes simple, wholesome ingredients and transforms them into tender grilled chicken skewers bursting with the bold flavors of lemon, garlic, and classic Greek spices. The marinade is a knockout, and with every juicy bite you’ll be transported straight to a seaside taverna in Greece. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe is always a hit!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how just a handful of pantry staples can create such a flavorful dish. Each ingredient in Grilled Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon-Garlic Marinade brings its own personality—from brightness and tang to smokiness and herbal depth. Let’s break it down!

• Chicken Thighs or Breasts: Opt for boneless, skinless pieces cut into 1-inch cubes for the juiciest, most flavorful results.
• Olive Oil: This is the backbone of your marinade—choose extra-virgin for the deepest, fruitiest aroma.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon delivers a tangy freshness that’s key for brightening up the chicken.
• Garlic: Three minced cloves infuse bold, mouthwatering flavor—don’t skimp!
• Dried Oregano: The earthy, herbaceous Greek classic that rounds out the marinade beautifully.
• Ground Cumin: Just a teaspoon adds savory depth and warmth you can’t quite put your finger on.
• Smoked Paprika: A hint of smokiness enhances the grilled flavor and adds color.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors into sharp, delicious focus.
• Wooden or Metal Skewers: Skewers make grilling a breeze—don’t forget to soak wood skewers if using them.
• Optional Garnishes: Tzatziki, warm pita bread, red onion slices, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber are the ultimate finishing touches.

How to Make Grilled Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon-Garlic Marinade

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by grabbing a large bowl and adding your olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, and smoked paprika. Give it all a whisk, then toss in a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. This beautiful, aromatic mixture is the heart and soul of our Grilled Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon-Garlic Marinade.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Drop the chicken cubes right into the bowl and tumble them through the marinade until every piece is coated to glistening perfection. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least one hour—overnight is even better. This extra time lets all those flavors really work their magic, tenderizing the chicken and infusing every bite.

Step 3: Soak the Skewers

If you’re using wooden skewers, now’s the time to soak them in water for about 30 minutes. This simple step keeps them from burning on the grill and makes for stress-free cooking later on.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill

Fire up your outdoor grill or set a grill pan over medium-high heat. You’re looking for a nice sizzle the moment your chicken hits the grates. Make sure your grill is clean and lightly oiled for those perfect grill marks.

Step 5: Skewer the Chicken

Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto your skewers, leaving a little space in between each cube so the heat can circulate and cook them evenly. This step is simple but satisfying!

Step 6: Grill the Skewers

Grill the skewers for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden, crisp around the edges, and completely cooked through (aim for an internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C). The aroma will be absolutely irresistible!

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Plate your Grilled Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon-Garlic Marinade hot from the grill. Serve it with warm pita, cool tzatziki, and a rainbow of fresh veggies or a classic Greek salad for the ultimate Mediterranean feast.

How to Serve Grilled Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon-Garlic Marinade

Garnishes

For that authentic taverna experience, garnish with a little extra lemon wedge, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill, and maybe a few crumbles of feta cheese. These simple touches elevate every bite and bring out the zesty, herby flavors in the chicken.

Side Dishes

Grilled Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon-Garlic Marinade shines alongside all your Mediterranean favorites: think pillowy pita bread, a bowl of creamy tzatziki, crunchy Greek salad, or even a pile of seasoned roasted potatoes. The more variety you add, the more festive and satisfying your meal will be!

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful with the presentation—slide the skewers off and build a colorful wrap or rice bowl topped with tzatziki and veggies, serve as mini kebab sliders for a party, or pile the chicken over a big salad with olives and feta. Grilled Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon-Garlic Marinade is as versatile as your imagination.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftover chicken to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll keep perfectly for up to 3 days, making leftovers a breeze for lunches or next-day Mediterranean salads.

Freezing

To freeze, let the cooked chicken cool completely, then wrap tightly or store in a freezer bag. Squeeze out any excess air before sealing to prevent freezer burn. It’ll stay at peak flavor for up to 2 months—just thaw thoroughly before reheating.

Reheating

The best way to reheat Grilled Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon-Garlic Marinade is gently! Warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or use a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. A splash of broth or extra marinade helps keep everything juicy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Both boneless, skinless chicken thighs and breasts work beautifully for this recipe. Thighs are a bit juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked, while breasts will give you a leaner result.

What if I don’t have a grill?

No problem—simply use a stovetop grill pan or even broil the skewers in your oven. Just turn them every few minutes for even charring and that gorgeous golden color.

Can I marinate the chicken for less than an hour?

If you’re in a rush, 30 minutes will still impart good flavor, but for the most tender and bold results, try to plan for at least an hour. Overnight is even better, allowing the Grilled Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon-Garlic Marinade to really shine!

Is this recipe gluten free?

Yes, on its own, Grilled Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon-Garlic Marinade is naturally gluten free! Just be mindful to serve it with gluten-free sides if needed.

What vegetables go well with these skewers?

Freshness is key—serve with sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and bell peppers. You can even skewer some veggies right alongside the chicken for an extra colorful platter.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about sharing platters of Grilled Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon-Garlic Marinade with family and friends—it’s simple, joyous, and always leaves everyone wanting more. Give it a try and see how quickly it becomes a new favorite on your table!