Learn how to make an easy chicken souvlaki recipe like a pro with simple steps and the best chicken souvlaki marinade for juicy, flavorful skewers every time!

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This Recipe is written by Lea | Published on January 5, 2025

I first tried chicken souvlaki at Mr. Souvlaki in Canada, and it was love at first bite.

Since I enjoy recreating dishes I try outside at home, I knew I had to make this one. Juicy marinated chicken, grilled to perfection, served either plated with sides or wrapped in a warm pita. What’s not to love?

Souvlaki can be paired with fluffy Greek pita or your favorite flatbread, along with the must-have tzatziki, a creamy cucumber yogurt dip. And yes, I’ve also got a recipe for that! You can check it out here.

What you need to make Chicken Souvlaki:

For the Chicken Souvlaki Marinade

Chicken Breasts (you can use thighs)
Lemon Juice
Olive Oil
Garlic Cloves
Oregano
Dried Parsley
Salt & Pepper

For the Chicken Souvlaki Sandwich/Plate

Warm Pita Bread
Tomatoes
Red Onions
Tzatziki Sauce
Olives (optional)
Lettuce (optional)

Measurements are posted in the recipe card below the instructions.

Steps to Make Chicken Souvlaki

Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized cubes, making sure they’re roughly the same size for even cooking. You can use chicken breast or thighs, whatever you prefer.

In a large bowl, combine lemon juice, olive oil, minced or grated garlic cloves, oregano, dried parsley, salt, and pepper.
Add the chicken cubes to the bowl and mix well, ensuring every piece is coated in the marinade.
Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to a few hours for maximum flavor.

Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and cook the skewers for about 3–4 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden and fully cooked through.
[For Stainless Steel Pans: Lightly brush the pan with olive oil before cooking to prevent sticking. Ensure the pan is properly heated before adding the chicken to help it release easily.]

Chicken souvlaki is traditionally served with warm pita bread, a side of creamy tzatziki, and a simple Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives. But souvlaki is so versatile, you can enjoy it however you like.

The secret to its incredible flavor lies in the chicken marinade; a blend of lemon, olive oil, garlic, and herbs that makes the chicken juicy and tender.

Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Preparation Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Yields: 12 skewers (6 servings)

Ingredients

3 chicken breasts, cubed
1/4 cup lemon juice
1/8 cup olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp oregano
1/2 tbsp dried parsley
1/2 tbsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

Slice the chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes, ensuring they are roughly the same size for even cooking.
In a large bowl, combine lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and mix well to coat evenly. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or up to a few hours.
Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving some space between pieces. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and cook the skewers for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden and fully cooked. For stainless steel pans, lightly brush with oil before cooking.