Description
Chicken Souvlaki is a classic Greek dish featuring juicy, tender marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection. Served on warm pita bread with fresh tomatoes, thinly sliced red onions, and creamy tzatziki sauce, this recipe offers a flavorful and authentic Mediterranean main course that is gluten free and perfect for a tasty, healthy meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 lbs chicken breasts (about 4 breasts)
- 1/2 cup canola or olive oil
- 3 tbsp white wine vinegar
- 2 lemons – juice only (use 3 if lemons are not very juicy)
- 6 garlic cloves, smashed
- 3 tbsp fresh minced dill weed
- 3 tbsp fresh minced parsley
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 – 1.5 tsp coarse salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
To Serve
- 6–8 Greek pita bread, warmed
- 2 tomatoes, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce (more or less to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade and Chicken: In a bowl, combine the canola or olive oil, white wine vinegar, lemon juice, smashed garlic cloves, fresh dill, fresh parsley, dried oregano, coarse salt, and black pepper. Whisk thoroughly to blend all ingredients. Taste the marinade to adjust salt before adding chicken.
- Marinate the Chicken: Cut chicken breasts into approximately 1-inch cubes. Place the chicken into a large zip-top bag or glass container and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal and mix well to ensure all pieces are fully coated. Marinate for at least 2 hours and up to 12 hours in the refrigerator.
- Prepare the Grill (if grilling): Soak wood skewers in water for about 45 minutes to prevent burning. Preheat grill to medium-high heat, setting up two temperature zones if possible for control.
- Skewer the Chicken: Thread 4-5 pieces of marinated chicken onto each skewer.
- Grill the Chicken Skewers: Place skewers on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side. Turn the skewers a quarter turn each time, ensuring even cooking. Total grilling time is about 16-20 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Warm the Pita Bread: While chicken cooks, lightly brush pita bread with olive oil and place directly on the grill to warm and develop slight char marks.
- Slice Vegetables: Prepare sliced tomatoes and thinly sliced red onions for serving.
- Alternative Cooking Method – Pan Cooking: If not grilling, preheat a skillet over medium to medium-low heat with a bit of oil. Cook chicken skewers in one layer without overlapping, turning every 3-4 minutes for even browning. Cook until chicken is fully cooked through.
- Serve: Place grilled chicken on warm pita bread. Top with sliced red onions, tomatoes, and a dollop of tzatziki sauce. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- To make this dish gluten free, use gluten free pita bread or serve the souvlaki without pita.
- Dried herbs can be used instead of fresh; use half the amount listed for fresh herbs.
- Store any leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning on the grill.
- Do not marinate the chicken longer than 12 hours to avoid mushy texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
Keywords: chicken souvlaki, Greek chicken skewers, grilled chicken, Mediterranean chicken recipe, gluten free chicken, souvlaki marinade
