Chicken Souvlaki with Greek Salad – Fresh Mediterranean Dinner

Chicken Souvlaki with Greek Salad is a classic Mediterranean dish that brings together tender grilled chicken, vibrant vegetables, and bold, zesty flavors. Traditionally found in Greek street food and tavernas, souvlaki consists of marinated chicken skewers, grilled to juicy perfection and often served with pita, tzatziki, and a fresh Greek salad.

This meal is light yet satisfying, packed with protein, and naturally gluten-free. The marinade infuses the chicken with lemon, garlic, and herbs, while the Greek salad provides a refreshing contrast with crisp cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, kalamata olives, and feta cheese.

It’s a perfect dinner for warm nights, meal prep, or anytime you want a wholesome, flavorful plate that feels like a mini vacation to the Aegean.

Ingredients Overview

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this fresh Mediterranean dish to life:

For the Chicken Souvlaki

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast or Thighs

Both work well, but chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving on the grill. Cut into 1 ½-inch cubes for even cooking.

Olive Oil

Forms the base of the marinade and helps the chicken stay moist.

Fresh Lemon Juice

Adds bright, acidic flavor to tenderize the meat and create a classic Greek profile.

Garlic

Minced garlic adds depth and savory punch to the marinade.

Dried Oregano

A signature Greek herb—use a generous amount for authentic flavor.

Salt & Black Pepper

Essential for seasoning both the marinade and final dish.

Optional: Red Wine Vinegar or White Wine Vinegar

Adds another layer of brightness to the marinade.

For the Greek Salad

Cucumbers

Use seedless or Persian cucumbers for crunch and mild flavor.

Cherry Tomatoes or Vine Tomatoes

Bright, juicy, and sweet—halved or chopped.

Red Onion

Thinly sliced for a sharp, savory bite.

Kalamata Olives

Briny and meaty, these are a must-have in a Greek salad.

Feta Cheese

Crumbly, tangy, and creamy—either block-style or pre-crumbled.

Olive Oil & Lemon Juice (or Red Wine Vinegar)

Simple, clean dressing with no need for bottled sauces.

Dried Oregano or Fresh Herbs

Sprinkle over the salad for extra Mediterranean flair.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl or zip-top bag, combine:

• 1 ½ lbs chicken breast or thighs, cubed

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 ½ tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

(Optional: 1 tbsp red wine vinegar)

Toss to coat evenly. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or up to 6 hours).

2. Prepare the Greek Salad

In a large bowl, combine:

• 1 cucumber, sliced

• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved

• ¼ red onion, thinly sliced

• ½ cup kalamata olives

• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese

Drizzle with:

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp lemon juice or red wine vinegar

• ½ tsp dried oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

Toss gently. Let sit at room temperature to absorb flavors while cooking the chicken.

3. Assemble and Grill the Souvlaki

• Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.

• Thread marinated chicken onto skewers (metal or soaked wooden skewers).

• Grill for 8–10 minutes, turning every 2–3 minutes, until nicely charred and cooked through (internal temp 165°F).

• Remove from heat and let rest 5 minutes.

Alternative Cooking Methods:

• Oven Broil: Place skewers on a foil-lined sheet and broil for 7–10 minutes, turning once.

• Stovetop: Sear in a hot skillet with a little oil until browned on all sides and cooked through.

4. Plate and Serve

Serve skewers alongside Greek salad, warm pita bread, and a dollop of tzatziki sauce. Garnish with lemon wedges and extra oregano if desired.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Pro Tips

• Don’t over-marinate the chicken—acidic ingredients can break down the texture after too long.

• Let chicken rest after cooking to retain juices.

• Use a hot grill for charred, smoky flavor.

Variations

• Add Veggies to Skewers: Bell peppers, red onion, and zucchini grill beautifully with the chicken.

• Souvlaki Bowls: Serve over rice or quinoa with salad and tzatziki.

• Wraps: Slice chicken and serve in pita with salad and sauce.

Substitutions

• Chicken-Free: Use shrimp, tofu, or halloumi for a vegetarian version.

• Dairy-Free: Omit feta or use a plant-based cheese alternative.

• Low-Carb/Keto: Skip pita and serve with cauliflower rice or leafy greens.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

This meal is as versatile as it is flavorful. It’s perfect for:

Serve with:

• Warm pita or flatbread

• Tzatziki or hummus

• Lemon rice or roasted potatoes

• A crisp white wine or sparkling water with cucumber

Perfect for:

• Summer grilling

• Healthy weeknight dinners

• Meal prep lunch bowls

• Outdoor picnics or barbecues

• Mediterranean-themed dinner parties

Nutritional & Health Notes

Chicken souvlaki with Greek salad is a naturally balanced meal—lean protein, healthy fats, and lots of fiber and vitamins from the vegetables.

Estimated per serving (1 skewer + salad):

• Calories: ~400–450

• Protein: ~35g

• Carbs: ~10–15g

• Fat: ~25g (mostly from olive oil and feta)

• Fiber: ~4g

To reduce calories:

• Use less feta and oil in salad

• Serve without pita or with lettuce wraps

FAQs

Q1: Can I cook the chicken without a grill?

A1: Absolutely. Use a stovetop grill pan or oven broiler for great results indoors.

Q2: How long should I marinate the chicken?

A2: At least 30 minutes, but no more than 6 hours. Too much time in lemon juice can toughen the chicken.

Q3: Can I make this ahead?

A3: Yes! Marinate the chicken and prep the salad in advance. Grill right before serving for best flavor.

Q4: What if I don’t have skewers?

A4: Cook the marinated chicken in a hot skillet or bake it in the oven. You can still enjoy the same flavors without the skewers.

Q5: Is this meal gluten-free?

A5: Yes, as long as you skip the pita or use gluten-free flatbread. Always check labels on condiments like tzatziki.

Q6: Can I use store-bought Greek dressing?

A6: You can, but a simple mix of olive oil, lemon, oregano, and vinegar gives a fresher, more authentic flavor.

Q7: What’s the best sauce to serve with souvlaki?

A7: Tzatziki is the traditional choice—a cool, garlicky yogurt-cucumber sauce that pairs perfectly with the warm, herby chicken.

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