International Cuisine > Cooking Techniques Across Cultures > Grilling & Barbecue (International) > Souvlaki (Greek)

Lemon-Herb Chicken Souvlaki

This Lemon-Herb Chicken Souvlaki recipe is a light and refreshing take on the classic Greek dish. Marinated in a vibrant blend of lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs, the chicken skewers are grilled to tender perfection. Ideal for a healthy and flavorful meal, this souvlaki is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.

Prep Time
20 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time
10-12 minutes
Servings
6
Ingredients
  • 1.5 lbs Chicken Breast (cut into 1-inch cubes)
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil
  • 1/4 cup Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Oregano (chopped)
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Thyme (chopped)
  • 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
  • 12 pieces Wooden Skewers (soaked in water for at least 30 minutes)

Mixing the Lemon-Herb Marinade

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped fresh oregano, chopped fresh thyme, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well blended. This marinade will tenderize and flavor the chicken beautifully.

Marinating the Chicken

Place the chicken cubes in a resealable bag or a bowl. Pour the lemon-herb marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.

Preparing the Skewers

Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the soaked wooden skewers. Be careful not to overcrowd the skewers; leave a little space between the pieces to allow for even cooking.

Grilling the Chicken Souvlaki

Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the chicken skewers on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Serving Suggestions

Serve the lemon-herb chicken souvlaki immediately. Enjoy them with a side of Greek salad, rice pilaf, or inside warm pita bread with a dollop of tzatziki or hummus.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Calories: 200kcal
Protein: 30g
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 2g

Other Considerations for Nutrition

This is a lean protein dish. Using skinless chicken breast further reduces fat content. Serving with whole wheat pita bread will add fiber. This nutrition data is an estimate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

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FAQ

  • Can I use dried herbs if I don't have fresh ones?

    Yes, you can use dried herbs, but use about half the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor. So, use 1 tablespoon of dried oregano and 1/2 tablespoon of dried thyme.
  • Can I bake these in the oven instead of grilling?

    Yes, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
  • What other vegetables can I add to the skewers?

    Cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and red onions are great additions to the skewers. Just be sure to cut them into similar sizes as the chicken.