Introduction
If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor, easy to prepare, and transports you straight to the sun-soaked shores of Greece, you’re in the right place. Inspired by the vibrant tastes of the Great Greek Mediterranean Grill, this Sizzling Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe is a must-try.
It’s a perfect balance of zesty marinade, tender grilled chicken, and fresh Mediterranean flair—ideal for weeknight dinners or impressing guests at your next gathering. Let’s dive into this culinary journey and bring a piece of the Mediterranean to your table!
Table of contents
- Introduction
- Why Greek Mediterranean Grill Recipes Stand Out
- Ingredients for Sizzling Greek Chicken Souvlaki
- Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make Sizzling Greek Chicken Souvlaki
- Bonus: Quick Tzatziki Recipe
- Why This Recipe Works for Everyone
- The Magic of Mediterranean Grill Cooking
- Tips for the Best Greek Chicken Souvlaki
- Pairing Ideas for a Full Mediterranean Meal
- Health Benefits of This Mediterranean Grill Dish
- A Taste of Greece at Home
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Sizzling Greek Chicken Souvlaki
- Final Thoughts
Why Greek Mediterranean Grill Recipes Stand Out
Greek cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its simplicity, bold flavors, and wholesome ingredients. The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill embodies this tradition, blending aromatic herbs, tangy citrus, and perfectly grilled meats into dishes that satisfy both the stomach and the soul. Chicken souvlaki, a staple in Greek cooking, is a prime example—marinated skewers grilled to juicy perfection, served with vibrant sides like tzatziki or grilled veggies.
This recipe isn’t just another meal; it’s an experience. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this dish delivers restaurant-quality results at home. Plus, it’s packed with health benefits—lean protein, heart-healthy olive oil, and fresh vegetables make it a guilt-free indulgence. Ready to fire up the grill? Let’s get started.
Ingredients for Sizzling Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Here’s what you’ll need to create this Mediterranean masterpiece. These ingredients are easy to find and bring authentic Greek flavors to life:
- 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Cut into 1-inch cubes for even grilling.
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil – The backbone of Mediterranean cooking, adding richness and moisture.
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice – For that signature tangy kick.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced – Because no Greek dish is complete without garlic’s bold aroma.
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano – A classic herb that defines Greek seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Adds earthy depth to the marinade.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – For a subtle smoky flavor that enhances the grill experience.
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt – To bring out the natural flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Freshly ground for a little heat.
- 1 red bell pepper – Cut into chunks for grilling alongside the chicken.
- 1 red onion – Quartered into wedges for sweetness and crunch.
- Wooden or metal skewers – Soak wooden ones in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
For Serving (Optional but Recommended):
- Homemade tzatziki sauce (recipe below).
- Warm pita bread or a side of Greek salad.
- Lemon wedges for an extra zesty finish.
Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make Sizzling Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Follow these simple steps to create a dish that’s as delicious as anything you’d find at a Great Greek Mediterranean Grill.
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper. This marinade is the secret to infusing the chicken with bold Mediterranean flavors. Take a moment to inhale the aroma—it’s like a Greek island breeze in your kitchen!
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, tossing them until fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes—or up to 4 hours if you have the time. The longer it marinates, the more tender and flavorful the chicken becomes.
Step 3: Assemble the Skewers
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C). Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, alternating with chunks of red bell pepper and red onion. This not only adds color but also infuses the veggies with the marinade’s flavors as they grill.
Step 4: Grill to Perfection
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes to ensure even charring. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and have beautiful grill marks. The smell of sizzling meat and caramelized veggies will have everyone hovering around the grill!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes—this locks in the juices. Serve with warm pita, a dollop of tzatziki, and a squeeze of fresh lemon. Pair it with a crisp Greek salad or roasted potatoes for a complete Mediterranean feast.
Bonus: Quick Tzatziki Recipe
No Greek Mediterranean grill experience is complete without tzatziki. Here’s a fast recipe to whip up while the chicken marinates:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt – Thick and creamy.
- 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained – Squeeze out excess water with a clean towel.
- 1 garlic clove, minced – For a punch of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped – Or mint, if you prefer.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – To brighten it up.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Adjust as needed.
Mix everything in a bowl, chill for 15 minutes, and serve. It’s cool, tangy, and the perfect complement to your sizzling souvlaki.
Why This Recipe Works for Everyone
This Sizzling Greek Chicken Souvlaki isn’t just delicious—it’s versatile. Here’s why it’s a winner:
- Quick and Easy: Prep takes 15 minutes, and grilling is done in under 15 more. Perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy: High in protein, low in carbs (skip the pita if you’re watching them), and loaded with antioxidants from the veggies and olive oil.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Kids love the skewers, adults adore the flavors, and it’s a hit at barbecues or family dinners.
- Customizable: Swap chicken for lamb, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Adjust the spices to your liking.
The Magic of Mediterranean Grill Cooking
What makes the Great Greek Mediterranean Grill style so special? It’s all about balance. The cuisine relies on fresh, high-quality ingredients rather than heavy sauces or complicated techniques. Olive oil, lemon, garlic, and herbs like oregano create a symphony of flavors that don’t overpower the palate—they enhance it. Grilling, a cornerstone of Mediterranean cooking, adds a smoky dimension that’s hard to resist.
This souvlaki recipe captures that essence. The marinade tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with zest and spice. The grill caramelizes the edges, locking in moisture and creating that irresistible charred flavor. It’s simple yet sophisticated—a hallmark of Greek culinary tradition.
Tips for the Best Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Want to elevate your game? Here are some pro tips:
- Don’t Skip the Marinade Time: Even 30 minutes makes a difference, but 2-4 hours is ideal for maximum flavor.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Overcooking dries out chicken. Aim for 165°F (74°C) and pull it off the grill right away.
- Char the Veggies: Let the peppers and onions get a little blackened—they’ll taste sweeter and smokier.
- Double the Recipe: Leftovers make amazing wraps or salads the next day.
- Indoor Option: No grill? Use a grill pan or broil in the oven at 450°F (230°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Pairing Ideas for a Full Mediterranean Meal
Turn this souvlaki into a feast with these sides:
- Greek Salad: Tomatoes, cucumbers, feta, olives, and a drizzle of olive oil—fresh and crisp.
- Roasted Potatoes: Toss with lemon, garlic, and rosemary, then bake until golden.
- Hummus and Pita: A creamy dip to round out the meal.
- Grilled Zucchini: Brush with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and grill alongside the skewers.
Wash it down with a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with a lemon twist. You’ll feel like you’re dining al fresco in Santorini!
Health Benefits of This Mediterranean Grill Dish
This recipe isn’t just a treat for your taste buds—it’s good for your body too. Here’s why:
- Lean Protein: Chicken provides muscle-building protein without excess fat.
- Healthy Fats: Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, linked to heart health.
- Antioxidants: Garlic, lemon, and veggies fight inflammation and boost immunity.
- Low-Calorie Option: Skip the pita and tzatziki for a lighter meal that still satisfies.
It’s no wonder the Mediterranean diet is consistently ranked one of the healthiest in the world!
A Taste of Greece at Home
Bringing the Great Greek Mediterranean Grill vibe into your kitchen is easier than you think. This Sizzling Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe proves you don’t need a plane ticket to enjoy authentic Greek flavors. It’s about celebrating fresh ingredients, bold seasoning, and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.
Imagine this: the sizzle of the grill, the scent of garlic and oregano wafting through the air, and the first bite of juicy, smoky chicken paired with cool tzatziki. It’s not just food—it’s a moment. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or treating yourself to a solo dinner, this dish delivers every time.
Sizzling Greek Chicken Souvlaki: A Mediterranean Grill Masterpiece
Equipment
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Grill (Outdoor or Grill Pan)
- Skewers (Wooden or Metal)
- Whisk
Ingredients
For the Souvlaki
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch cubes
- 0.25 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 0.5 tsp sea salt
- 0.25 tsp black pepper freshly ground
- 1 red bell pepper cut into chunks
- 1 red onion quartered into wedges
For Serving (Optional)
- 4 pita bread warmed
- 1 cup tzatziki sauce homemade or store-bought
- 1 lemon cut into wedges
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper to make the marinade.
- Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, toss to coat, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours for best flavor).
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C). Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, alternating with red bell pepper chunks and red onion wedges.
- Grill the skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and has grill marks.
- Remove from the grill, let rest for 5 minutes, then serve with warm pita, tzatziki sauce, and lemon wedges.
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Sizzling Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Got questions about this Great Greek Mediterranean Grill-inspired recipe? We’ve got answers! Here’s everything you need to know to make this dish a success.
Absolutely! If you don’t have an outdoor grill, use a stovetop grill pan or your oven’s broiler. For the broiler, preheat to 450°F (230°C), place skewers on a baking sheet, and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway. You’ll still get that delicious char and flavor.
For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for 2-4 hours. However, if you’re short on time, 30 minutes will still infuse it with plenty of Mediterranean goodness. Don’t go beyond 6 hours, though—too much lemon juice can start to break down the meat too much.
You can swap chicken for lamb, beef, pork, or even shrimp for a seafood twist. For a vegetarian option, try firm tofu or portobello mushrooms—they soak up the marinade beautifully and grill up nicely.
Yes, the souvlaki itself is naturally gluten-free—just skip the pita bread when serving. Pair it with a Greek salad or grilled veggies instead for a fully gluten-free meal.
Store cooked souvlaki in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or microwave it for 1-2 minutes. It’s also delicious cold in a salad or wrap!
Yes! Freeze the marinated (uncooked) chicken skewers in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before grilling. Cooked skewers can also be frozen, but the texture might soften slightly upon reheating.
This version, inspired by the Great Greek Mediterranean Grill, uses smoked paprika for a unique smoky twist and balances the marinade with thyme and oregano for depth. The addition of grilled red peppers and onions elevates it beyond basic souvlaki, making every bite a flavor explosion.
Have more questions? Drop them below, and let’s keep the Mediterranean vibes going!
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a recipe that’s equal parts delicious, healthy, and impressive, your quest ends here. This Sizzling Greek Chicken Souvlaki, inspired by the Great Greek Mediterranean Grill, is a game-changer. It’s simple enough for beginners yet packed with enough flavor to wow seasoned foodies. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to explore Mediterranean cuisine without leaving home.
So, grab your skewers, fire up the grill, and treat yourself to a taste of Greece tonight. Have you tried this recipe yet? Let us know how it turned out—or share your favorite twist in the comments below!
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Sizzling Greek Chicken Souvlaki: A Mediterranean Grill Masterpiece