If you love vibrant, flavorful meals that transport you straight to the sunny Mediterranean coast, then this Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Fresh Vegetables and Pita Recipe is going to become your new favorite. Juicy, tender chicken marinated in zesty lemon, herbs, and creamy Greek yogurt is grilled to perfection, then paired with crisp vegetables, tangy feta, and warm, soft pita to create a feast bursting with texture and taste. It’s the kind of dish that feels both fresh and comforting, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a bright weeknight dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple but each ingredient plays an essential role in delivering authentic taste and texture. From the creamy tang of Greek yogurt in the marinade to the bright pops of kalamata olives, every component adds depth and balance to this delightful dish.
- 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt: gives the marinade a rich creaminess and tenderizes the chicken for juicy results.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: adds refreshing citrus brightness that wakes up the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar: brings a subtle acidity that balances the marinade beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon fresh garlic: infuses a fragrant, savory kick throughout.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley: offers a gentle herbaceous note that complements the oregano.
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano: an essential Greek herb that gives authentic Mediterranean flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: enriches the marinade with smoothness and helps the chicken cook evenly.
- 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1½ inch cubes: the star protein, perfect for skewering and grilling.
- Pita bread: warm, soft, and ideal for wrapping the souvlaki and vegetables.
- ½ cup feta cheese: salty, creamy, and packed with character.
- ½ cup hummus: adds a smooth, nutty layer that complements the grilled chicken.
- ½ cup cucumber, chopped: brings refreshing crunch to every bite.
- ½ cup kalamata olives, cut in half: bursts of briny goodness that elevate the dish.
- ½ red onion, sliced: offers a sharp contrast and vibrant color.
- ½ cup tomatoes, chopped: juicy sweetness that rounds out the fresh vegetables.
How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Fresh Vegetables and Pita Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the marinade
Start by whisking together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, white wine vinegar, fresh garlic, dried parsley, dried oregano, and olive oil in a medium bowl until the mixture is smooth and emulsified. This marinade is the heart of your dish, tenderizing the chicken while packing it with layered, tangy flavor.
Step 2: Marinate the chicken
Cut the chicken breasts into generous 1½ inch cubes for juicy, satisfying bites. Submerge the chicken pieces into the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and let it sit for at least 30 minutes, though allowing it up to 4 hours really lets those flavors sink in deeply.
Step 3: Thread and grill the chicken
Once marinated, thread the chicken cubes onto skewers, perfect for turning on the grill. Discard any leftover marinade to prevent flare-ups. Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat and cook the skewers for about 6 minutes on each side. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring it’s cooked through but still juicy and tender.
Step 4: Rest the chicken
After grilling, rest the chicken skewers for about 5 minutes. This simple step helps the juices redistribute for maximum succulent flavor when you take that first bite.
How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Fresh Vegetables and Pita Recipe
Garnishes
Serving this dish with classic garnishes like crumbled feta, crisp cucumber, ripe tomatoes, kalamata olives, and thin slices of red onion takes the flavors to another level. Each garnish lends a wonderful texture and signature Mediterranean flair that pairs beautifully with the grilled chicken.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines on its own but you can elevate your meal with simple sides like a light Greek salad, lemony roasted potatoes, or even a chilled tzatziki sauce. These side dishes echo the fresh and tangy notes of the souvlaki and keep your plate colorful and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, wrap the chicken and vegetables inside warm pita pockets smeared with hummus for a handheld feast. Or, serve everything deconstructed on a platter for a casual, shareable Mediterranean grazing board that invites everyone to build their own souvlaki creations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the grilled chicken and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days while maintaining their flavor and texture. Keep pita separate to prevent it from getting soggy.
Freezing
This Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Fresh Vegetables and Pita Recipe also freezes well. Place the grilled chicken pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months. Vegetables and pita are best enjoyed fresh but hummus can be frozen if desired.
Reheating
To reheat the chicken, use a grill pan or skillet over medium heat until warmed through, which retains its juicy texture better than the microwave. For pita, a quick toast or warm-up in the oven is perfect to soften it back up without drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are even juicier and more forgiving on the grill. Just cut them into similar-sized cubes and follow the same marinating and cooking instructions.
Do I need special skewers for cooking souvlaki?
You can use metal or wooden skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the chicken to prevent burning on the grill.
What can I use if I don’t have Greek yogurt?
Plain yogurt works fine, but Greek yogurt is thicker and creamier, helping the marinade cling better and tenderize the chicken more effectively.
Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the marinade a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just whisk well before adding the chicken to ensure everything is combined smoothly.
Is it possible to make the souvlaki indoors without a grill?
Definitely. A grill pan or even a regular skillet on medium-high heat works great to achieve those lovely charred edges and juicy centers.
Final Thoughts
I hope this Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Fresh Vegetables and Pita Recipe inspires your next meal since it truly captures the spirit of Mediterranean cooking with fresh, wholesome ingredients and simple techniques. It’s a dish that invites you to savor every bite, whether enjoyed as a family dinner or shared at a festive gathering. Give it a try and watch how it quickly becomes a go-to favorite in your kitchen!
Print
Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Fresh Vegetables and Pita Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour (including marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Chicken Souvlaki recipe brings the authentic flavors of Greece to your kitchen with tender, marinated chicken grilled to perfection. Paired with fresh vegetables, tangy feta, creamy hummus, and warm pita bread, it’s a delicious and satisfying Mediterranean meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Marinade
- 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon fresh garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Chicken
- 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1½ inch cubes
To Serve
- Pita bread
- ½ cup feta cheese
- ½ cup hummus
- ½ cup cucumber, chopped
- ½ cup kalamata olives, halved
- ½ red onion, sliced
- ½ cup tomatoes, chopped
Instructions
- Make the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, white wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried parsley, dried oregano, and olive oil until emulsified to create the marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into 1½ inch cubes and immerse them fully in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate, allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes and up to 4 hours to absorb the flavors.
- Prepare the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, making sure to discard any excess marinade left in the bowl to avoid flare-ups on the grill.
- Grill the Chicken: Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Place the chicken skewers on the pan and cook for 6 minutes on one side. Flip and grill for an additional 6 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is fully cooked. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Serve: Serve the grilled chicken souvlaki with warm pita bread, feta cheese, hummus, chopped cucumber, kalamata olives, sliced red onion, and chopped tomatoes for a traditional Mediterranean feast.
Notes
- If you don’t have a grill pan, you can also cook the chicken on an outdoor grill or under a broiler.
- Soaking wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before using helps prevent them from burning during cooking.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure your pita bread is gluten-free or omit it.
- For extra flavor, add fresh mint or dill to the marinade.
- Leftover souvlaki can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
