Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Maple Dijon Glaze Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a dish that feels like a celebration on a stick, look no further than Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Maple Dijon Glaze. This recipe perfectly balances the herby, bright flavors of classic Greek souvlaki with a surprising, sweet-savory twist from the luscious maple Dijon glaze. Tender, juicy chicken cubes marinated in fragrant oregano and lemon juice, grilled to perfection, and finished with a sticky glaze will have you hooked from the very first bite. It’s a simple yet vibrant dinner that brings sunshine and a touch of indulgence to your plate, perfect for weeknight meals or weekend cookouts.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Maple Dijon Glaze lies in its straightforward but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each item plays a role in building layers of flavor and texture—from the juicy chicken and the bright acidity of lemon juice, to the earthy oregano and the sweet tang from the luxurious glaze. Here’s what you’ll gather:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 ½ lbs): Cubed into 1-inch pieces for even marinating and quick grilling.
• Olive oil (3 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps keep the chicken moist on the grill.
• Lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Gives a fresh, zesty kick that tenderizes the chicken.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses deep aroma and savory depth.
• Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): The classic Greek herb that brings those unmistakable Mediterranean vibes.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all the flavors beautifully.
• Wooden or metal skewers: For threading the chicken pieces and achieving that iconic souvlaki style.
• Dijon mustard (2 tablespoons): Forms the sharp base of the delicious maple Dijon glaze.
• Pure maple syrup (1 ½ tablespoons): Adds a natural sweetness with complexity and depth.
• Apple cider vinegar (1 teaspoon): Brings balance to the glaze with a subtle tang.

How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Maple Dijon Glaze

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by combining olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add the cubed chicken and toss everything together so each piece is well coated. Letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes allows those vibrant flavors to seep in deeply, ensuring every bite bursts with freshness. If you have a couple of hours, even better—the extra time only makes the chicken more tender and flavorful.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill and Prepare Skewers

While your chicken marinates, get your grill or grill pan heated to medium-high. Thread the chicken cubes onto your skewers, leaving a little space between pieces for even cooking. This step is key to getting that deliciously smoky char woven into the chicken while locking in moisture.

Step 3: Make the Maple Dijon Glaze

Whisk together Dijon mustard, pure maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil until smooth. This glaze is what sets this dish apart—its sticky, sweet, and tangy notes elevate the savory grilled chicken to a whole new level of yum. It’s simple but packs a punch in flavor.

Step 4: Grill and Glaze the Chicken

Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook for about 10 to 12 minutes total, turning often to get those beautiful grill marks and ensure even cooking. In the final minutes, generously brush the maple Dijon glaze over the chicken. The glaze caramelizes slightly, creating a glossy finish full of irresistible flavor and a hint of sweetness that complements the herbs perfectly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the chicken is cooked through and beautifully glazed, remove from the grill and serve immediately for the best experience.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Maple Dijon Glaze

Garnishes

Garnishing your souvlaki with fresh, crisp elements enhances both flavor and presentation. Chopped fresh parsley or oregano adds a pop of color and herbal brightness, while a scatter of crumbled feta cheese can introduce a creamy, salty contrast that’s utterly delicious.

Side Dishes

This dish loves company from sides that are easygoing but complementary. Think warm pita bread to wrap those juicy skewers, fluffy rice infused with lemon zest, or a classic Greek salad bursting with ripe tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and kalamata olives. These sides keep the meal balanced and complete.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the chicken souvlaki as a street-food style platter with extra marinade for dipping, or pile it over a vibrant grain bowl with quinoa, roasted veggies, and a drizzle of tzatziki. Another crowd-pleaser is assembling mini souvlaki sliders using soft buns and crisp lettuce—perfect for sharing!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftover Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Maple Dijon Glaze, transfer the cooked chicken to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, making for convenient next-day lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken skewers for longer storage by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen this way, they will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftover souvlaki gently in a skillet over medium heat or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Avoid overheating to keep the chicken tender and juicy. Brushing a little extra maple Dijon glaze before reheating can help revive that fresh flavor.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! While chicken breasts are lean and easy to cube, boneless chicken thighs also work wonderfully. Thighs tend to be juicier and a bit more forgiving on the grill, offering a deeper flavor.

Is it necessary to soak wooden skewers before grilling?

Yes, soaking wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes before threading the chicken helps prevent them from burning during grilling. If you’re using metal skewers, this step isn’t needed.

Can I prepare the marinade and glaze ahead of time?

Definitely. You can mix the marinade a day ahead to deepen the flavors and combine the maple Dijon glaze a few hours before cooking. Just keep them covered and refrigerated separately until ready to use.

What can I do if I don’t have a grill?

No grill? No problem. A grill pan or even a broiler in your oven can produce great results. Just keep an eye on the chicken to avoid overcooking and brush with the glaze near the end for that caramelized finish.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Maple Dijon Glaze is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Just be sure to check that any additional sides or pita bread are gluten-free if needed.

Final Thoughts

This Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Maple Dijon Glaze recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a special occasion but comes together effortlessly. The combination of fresh herbs, juicy grilled chicken, and that addictive glaze is simply unbeatable. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just indulging yourself, I promise this recipe will become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and savor every flavorful bite!