Easy Chicken Souvlaki Marinade with Tzatziki
If you’ve ever strolled through the streets of Athens, the smell of sizzling souvlaki on the grill is unforgettable. Juicy chicken skewers, kissed by fire and bursting with Mediterranean flavors, are served hot in warm pita bread with fresh veggies and creamy tzatziki. Luckily, you don’t have to book a flight to Greece to enjoy this dish you can make it right at home with this easy chicken souvlaki marinade that transforms simple chicken into a restaurant-worthy meal.
This recipe is not only fast and approachable, but it’s also packed with authentic Greek flavors. The marinade uses olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and a splash of white wine for depth. With just a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you can prepare a healthy, crowd-pleasing dinner in under 30 minutes of cooking time.
Ingredients
For the Easy Chicken Souvlaki Marinade
- 10 garlic cloves, peeled
- 2 tablespoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup dry white wine
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 bay leaves
For the Chicken
- 2 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast (fat trimmed), cut into 1 ½-inch pieces
For the Pita Fixings
- Greek pita bread
- Tzatziki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- Sliced tomatoes
- Sliced cucumbers
- Thinly sliced red onions
- Kalamata olives
Optional Greek Side Dishes
- Greek salad
- Roasted garlic hummus
- Watermelon cucumber salad
- Mezze platter
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Marinade
In a food processor, combine garlic, oregano, rosemary, paprika, salt, pepper, olive oil, white wine, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth. This is your easy chicken souvlaki marinade.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place chicken pieces in a large bowl. Add bay leaves, then pour the marinade over the chicken. Toss until well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight, to let the flavors soak in. (Short on time? Even 30 minutes of marinating at room temperature works in a pinch.)
Step 3: Prepare the Skewers
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30–45 minutes to prevent burning. Thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Preheat an outdoor grill or stovetop griddle over medium-high heat. Brush the grill with oil, then cook the skewers for about 5 minutes, turning to brown evenly on all sides. The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 5: Warm the Pitas & Assemble
Briefly grill pita bread to soften and char slightly. Spread tzatziki sauce inside each pita, add chicken pieces (remove from skewers), and top with tomato, cucumber, onions, and olives. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
About the Recipe
The Magic of the Marinade
The secret to authentic souvlaki lies in the marinade. Olive oil keeps the chicken juicy, lemon adds brightness, garlic and oregano deliver classic Greek flavor, while white wine enhances depth and tenderness. This easy chicken souvlaki marinade is foolproof and versatile you can also use it for pork, lamb, or even vegetables.
History and Tradition
Souvlaki is one of the oldest street foods in Greece, dating back to ancient times when meat was cooked on skewers over open flames. Today, it’s a national favorite, enjoyed everywhere from seaside tavernas to family kitchens.
Helpful Tips
- Marinating time: For best flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight. If rushed, 30 minutes still works.
- Cooking method: No grill? Use a cast iron skillet or broiler.
- Don’t skip the pita: Warm, soft pita bread is essential for the full souvlaki experience.
- Double batch: Make extra chicken—leftovers are amazing in salads, wraps, or grain bowls.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chicken souvlaki with a classic Greek salad, a mezze platter, or roasted potatoes. For a lighter option, skip the pita and enjoy the skewers over cauliflower rice with extra tzatziki.
Nutrition Insights
This dish is naturally high in protein and packed with healthy fats from olive oil. Using fresh vegetables as toppings adds fiber and vitamins, making it a balanced and nourishing meal.
Conclusion
Making Greek street food at home has never been easier with this easy chicken souvlaki marinade. Juicy, flavorful, and endlessly versatile, this recipe brings the flavors of the Mediterranean straight to your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting friends, planning a weeknight dinner, or craving something fresh and exciting, chicken souvlaki is always a winner.
Give it a try, serve it with warm pita and creamy tzatziki, and transport your taste buds to Greece. Don’t forget to share your homemade souvlaki creations—I’d love to hear how you made it your own!
