Greek Chicken Souvlaki Grazing Board with Garlic Feta Dip Recipe

If you’ve been searching for a show-stopping, flavor-packed centerpiece that turns any gathering into a festive occasion, look no further than this Greek Chicken Souvlaki Grazing Board with Garlic Feta Dip. Imagine tender, herb-marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection, paired with vibrant, crunchy veggies and a luscious, garlicky feta dip that’s creamy and tangy all at once. This dish brings together the best of Mediterranean flavors in a casual, shareable way that’s perfect for friendly get-togethers or a cozy night in. It’s a feast not just for your taste buds but for your eyes too, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the right ingredients is like setting the stage for a perfect culinary performance. Each element in this Greek Chicken Souvlaki Grazing Board with Garlic Feta Dip plays a crucial role—bringing bold flavors, fresh textures, and that signature Mediterranean sunshine brightness to your plate.

  • Boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts: These bite-sized cubes make the souvlaki tender and juicy, soaking up all the delicious marinade flavors.
  • Olive oil: A cornerstone of Greek cooking, it adds richness and helps the marinade coat every piece of chicken evenly.
  • Lemon juice and zest: Brighten the marinade with essential citrus notes that balance the savory spices beautifully.
  • Garlic: Both minced and roasted forms bring layers of pungent, savory depth—key to that addictive garlic feta dip and marinade.
  • Dried oregano, paprika, and ground cumin: This spice combo delivers a subtle smoky warmth with authentic Greek character.
  • Salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance every ingredient’s natural flavor.
  • Plain Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess to the marinade and dip while keeping things light and tangy.
  • Feta cheese: The star of the dip, crumbled for a crumbly, salty punch.
  • Fresh parsley: To sprinkle on top, lending fresh herbal brightness that contrasts beautifully with the richer components.
  • Pita bread wedges, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion, Kalamata olives, hummus (optional), and lemon wedges: These create a colorful, textured grazing board that invites nibbling and dipping.

How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki Grazing Board with Garlic Feta Dip

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

This is where magic begins. In a mixing bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice and zest, garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and Greek yogurt into a vibrant marinade. Toss your chicken cubes in this mixture, making sure every piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes so the flavors can mingle—up to 4 hours if you can plan ahead. This resting time is essential to infuse the chicken with zesty and aromatic richness.

Step 2: Skewer the Chicken

Once marinated, thread the chicken onto skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for 20 minutes beforehand to prevent burning. This step lets you cook the souvlaki evenly and get those lovely grill lines that hint at caramelized flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Souvlaki

Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and cook the skewers for about 10 to 12 minutes. Turn them occasionally to achieve a golden-brown exterior while ensuring the chicken is cooked through (aim for an internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C). Once cooked, let the skewers rest for 5 minutes to lock in juiciness—this little wait makes all the difference.

Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Feta Dip

Blend together crumbled feta, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, and roasted garlic until you reach a creamy, smooth texture. The dip should be thick enough to scoop but still dreamy and luscious. Add a tablespoon or two of water to achieve the perfect dipping consistency. Stir in freshly chopped parsley for a final fragrant touch that elevates every bite.

Step 5: Assemble the Grazing Board

Bring everything together by arranging your chicken souvlaki skewers artistically on a large serving board. Nestle a bowl of garlic feta dip right in the center. Surround it with warm pita wedges, juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber slices, tangy red onion rings, briny Kalamata olives, and optional hummus for more creamy goodness. Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges to add bursts of fragrance and color.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki Grazing Board with Garlic Feta Dip

Greek Chicken Souvlaki Grazing Board with Garlic Feta Dip Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or dill are fantastic for brightening this dish visually and flavor-wise. Lemon wedges not only make the board pop with color but also allow guests to add a refreshing zing to their bites as they please. Thinly sliced red onions add a sharp contrast and texture that complements the tender chicken and creamy dip perfectly.

Side Dishes

This grazing board is generous but if you want to build an even heartier meal, consider simple Greek sides like a light village salad or roasted lemon potatoes. These classics harmonize beautifully without overshadowing the star of the show. Serving alongside a crisp white wine or a sparkling water with a lemon twist can round out the experience with elegant refreshment.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the souvlaki off the skewers as bite-sized morsels nestled on pita with a dollop of garlic feta dip. Or, build your own small pita wraps right at the table, encouraging everyone to customize with their favorite veggies and dips. Turning the board into an interactive experience adds a special warmth and convivial vibe that’s perfect for casual entertaining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (and lucky you if you do), store the chicken skewers and garlic feta dip separately in airtight containers. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy the delicious flavors a second time without any loss in vibrancy.

Freezing

While freshly made is always best, you can freeze the cooked chicken skewers for up to one month. Make sure they cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe container. The garlic feta dip is best kept fresh and not frozen, as the texture may change upon thawing.

Reheating

Warm leftover souvlaki gently on the grill pan or in the oven at low heat to avoid drying out the chicken. The garlic feta dip is delightful served cold or at room temperature—stir it well if it thickens after refrigeration to regain its creamy goodness.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Both chicken breasts and thighs work well, though thighs tend to stay juicier and more tender. Just be mindful not to overcook breasts as they dry out more easily.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinating for at least 30 minutes gives a great flavor boost, but for even more intense taste, marinate up to 4 hours. Avoid leaving it overnight to prevent the lemon juice from breaking down the meat too much.

Can I make the garlic feta dip ahead of time?

Yes, the garlic feta dip can be made a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, then stir thoroughly before serving to refresh the texture and flavor.

What can I substitute if I don’t have Kalamata olives?

If Kalamata olives are unavailable, other briny olives like Castelvetrano or green olives will work nicely. They provide a salty pop that enhances the overall board.

Is this dish gluten-free?

The chicken souvlaki and garlic feta dip are naturally gluten-free, but pita bread contains gluten. Swap pita for gluten-free flatbreads or serving the board with fresh veggies for a gluten-free option.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the Greek Chicken Souvlaki Grazing Board with Garlic Feta Dip—it’s like bringing a Mediterranean celebration right to your table. The combination of smoky, juicy chicken, creamy garlicky dip, and vibrant, fresh accompaniments makes every bite feel like a mini-vacation. Whether you’re hosting friends or just craving a delicious change from weeknight dinners, this board will quickly become your go-to. Give it a try and watch it become the highlight of every gathering—your guests will thank you endlessly!

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