Grilled Chicken Souvlaki with Fresh Herbs and Lemon Recipe
If you are craving a vibrant, mouthwatering dish that bursts with bright, fresh flavors, the Grilled Chicken Souvlaki with Fresh Herbs and Lemon Recipe is absolutely the answer. This Greek-inspired classic is a perfect blend of tender, juicy chicken infused with aromatic herbs, zesty lemon, and a hint of warming spices. Whether you’re entertaining guests or whipping up a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe promises a delightful taste adventure that feels both wholesome and celebratory.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are the heart and soul of your souvlaki, creating a harmony of flavor that’s vibrant yet simple. Each fresh herb and seasoning brings a unique character, making your grilled chicken irresistibly tasty and beautifully aromatic.
- Fresh oregano (3 tbsp): The quintessential Mediterranean herb brings a fragrant, peppery note that is essential for authentic flavor.
- Minced garlic (1 tbsp): Adds a pungent warmth that deeply infuses the chicken with savory goodness.
- Olive oil (3 tbsp): A rich, fruity base that helps keep the chicken juicy while adding that characteristic Mediterranean richness.
- Fresh lemon juice (¼ cup): Offers bright acidity that balances out the herbs and spices with a fresh zing.
- Cumin powder (½ tsp): Introduces a subtle earthy warmth with just a whisper of spice.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tbsp): Brings a lovely grassy freshness and vibrant green color to the dish.
- Chili flakes (½ tsp): Adds a gentle kick of heat that enlivens the marinade without overpowering the flavors.
- Salt (½ tsp): Essential for heightening all the other flavors and seasoning the chicken perfectly.
- Freshly cracked black pepper (¼ tsp): Adds subtle depth and a mild peppery finish.
- Grilled pita: For serving, providing a soft, warm base to enjoy your souvlaki.
- Oil spray: To lightly grease your grill or grill pan for perfect searing without sticking.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Souvlaki with Fresh Herbs and Lemon Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together all your fresh herbs, lemon juice, olive oil, and spices in a bowl or a sealable bag. This combination creates a flavorful marinade that will soak into every bite of the chicken, ensuring it cooks up juicy with a beautiful, aromatic crust. Mixing well is key so every ingredient is evenly distributed to infuse the meat fully.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Cut the chicken into bite-sized 1-2 inch pieces to allow the marinade to cling perfectly. Toss the chicken in the marinade until fully coated and then cover it tightly. Refrigerate for at least 20 to 30 minutes, or if you have time, let it marinate overnight for deeper, richer flavor. Patience here elevates the taste tremendously.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high and lightly spray to prevent sticking. Thread the chicken pieces onto skewers and grill for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally. This grilling time ensures the chicken is fully cooked while achieving those gorgeous charred edges that add smoky depth and visual appeal. You’ll love the aroma during this step!
Step 4: Serve Your Grilled Chicken Souvlaki with Fresh Herbs and Lemon Recipe
Once grilled to perfection, your chicken souvlaki is ready to be enjoyed. It’s best served immediately while warm and juicy, paired with fresh accompaniments that complement its bright flavors.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Souvlaki with Fresh Herbs and Lemon Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley over the grilled chicken adds a fresh herbaceous hit and vibrant green color that make the dish pop visually and in flavor. Grating a little lemon zest or adding lemon wedges on the side invites diners to add that extra zing of citrus zing that brightens every bite.
Side Dishes
Traditional accompaniments like warm grilled pita bread or flatbreads are perfect for wrapping the juicy chicken pieces. For a heartier meal, serve alongside a Greek salad bursting with tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and creamy feta cheese. You can also offer a scoop of fluffy rice or roasted vegetables to round it out nicely.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to get a little creative, serve the souvlaki plated atop couscous or quinoa salad topped with tzatziki sauce for a refreshing creamy contrast. Alternatively, use the chicken pieces as a filling for rustic wraps or vibrant grain bowls to impress family and friends with both taste and presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover grilled chicken souvlaki, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, retaining much of its flavor and juiciness. Make sure to cool it completely before refrigeration to maintain texture quality.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the marinated chicken before grilling or freeze cooked souvlaki. Place in freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will stay good for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking or reheating to preserve the vibrant flavors.
Reheating
Reheat leftover souvlaki gently in a pan over medium heat or in the oven to avoid drying out the chicken. Adding a splash of water or a light drizzle of olive oil during reheating helps maintain moisture and freshness. Avoid microwaving as it can cause uneven heating and toughness.
FAQs
Can I use other herbs besides oregano and parsley?
Absolutely! While oregano and parsley are traditional and bring classic Mediterranean flavors, you can experiment with basil, thyme, or even mint for a different but delicious twist.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken overnight?
Not necessary but highly recommended. Marinating for 20 to 30 minutes is sufficient to impart good flavor, but overnight marination intensifies the taste and makes the chicken even more tender.
Can I make this recipe using chicken thighs instead of breast?
Yes! Chicken thighs are even more forgiving and juicy, making them great for grilling. Just adjust cooking times slightly to ensure they’re cooked through and deliciously charred.
How spicy is this recipe with chili flakes?
The chili flakes add a gentle warmth rather than intense heat. You can always reduce or omit them based on your spice preference without losing the core flavors of the dish.
What can I serve instead of pita for a gluten-free option?
Try serving grilled chicken souvlaki with gluten-free flatbreads, lettuce wraps, or alongside rice and grilled vegetables for a naturally gluten-free meal that’s just as satisfying.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend enough giving this Grilled Chicken Souvlaki with Fresh Herbs and Lemon Recipe a try—its fresh, vibrant flavors and easy preparation make it a standout favorite in any kitchen. It’s one of those recipes that feels special, yet approachable, perfect for creating memorable meals that bring people together. Once you grill your first batch, this recipe will surely become a go-to for lively dinners and festive gatherings alike.
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Grilled Chicken Souvlaki with Fresh Herbs and Lemon Recipe
- Total Time: 25-40 minutes (including marinating time)
- Yield: 3 servings 1x
Description
This Chicken Souvlaki recipe offers a quick and flavorful taste of Greek street food. Marinated in a blend of oregano, garlic, lemon juice, and spices, the chicken is skewered and grilled to perfection, delivering tender, juicy bites with a slightly charred exterior. Perfect for serving with warm grilled pita, rice, or a fresh Greek salad for a delightful Mediterranean meal.
Ingredients
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)
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless chicken breast or thigh, cut into 1–2 inch pieces
For Serving
- Grilled pita
- Oil spray (for grilling)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl or sealable plastic bag, combine fresh oregano, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, cumin powder, chopped parsley, chili flakes, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Stir or shake well to fully blend all the flavors.
- Marinate the Chicken: Cut the chicken into 1-2 inch cubes and add them to the marinade. Toss everything together so each piece of chicken is evenly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 20-30 minutes. For best results and deeper flavor, marinate overnight.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking. Lightly spray the grill or grill pan with oil to prevent sticking. Grill the chicken for 10-12 minutes total, turning occasional to get a nice char and to cook evenly through. The chicken should be opaque and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Serve: Remove the chicken souvlaki from the grill and serve immediately. Accompany with warm grilled pita, fragrant rice, or a crisp Greek salad. Garnish with extra chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken overnight for more intense flavor.
- Use chicken thighs for juicier meat if preferred over breast.
- To avoid flare-ups on the grill, trim excess fat from chicken pieces.
- Can be cooked under a broiler or on a grill pan if outdoor grilling is unavailable.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
