Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki, Pita, and Fresh Veggie
Chicken Souvlaki is a Greek street-food classic — skewered, marinated chicken grilled until perfectly juicy and charred, served with creamy homemade tzatziki, warm pita, and fresh veggies. It’s high-protein, naturally Mediterranean, and utterly craveable. Great for lunch, dinner, or meal prep!
⏱️ Time Required:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Marinating Time: 1–4 hours (or overnight)
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: ~1.5 hours including marinade
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Souvlaki:
1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
3 tbsp olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
For the Tzatziki:
1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat or 2%)
½ cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp fresh dill or mint (or 1 tsp dried)
Salt, to taste
For Serving:
4 warm pita breads
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
1 cucumber, sliced
Lettuce leaves (optional)
Crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Lemon wedges
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken cubes, toss to coat, and marinate for at least 1 hour (up to 24 hours).
2. Make the Tzatziki:
1. Mix grated cucumber, yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, herbs, and salt.
2. Chill until ready to serve.
3. Grill the Chicken:
1. Thread chicken onto skewers.
2. Grill or pan-cook over medium-high heat for 10–12 minutes, turning often, until fully cooked and lightly charred.
4. Assemble the Plate:
Spread tzatziki on warm pita, top with chicken, fresh veggies, and optional feta.
Serve open-faced or folded gyro-style, with lemon wedges.
Notes & Tips:
Meal prep-friendly: Cook chicken and store separately from pita and veggies.
No grill? Use a grill pan, oven broiler, or stovetop skillet.
Pita tip: Brush with olive oil and lightly toast before serving.
❓ Frequently asked questions FAQ:
Q: Can I use metal skewers or wooden?
A: Both work — soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes, if you use gluten-free pita or serve without it.
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
A: Yes — substitute chicken with marinated grilled tofu or halloumi.
Nutritional Value
Calories 420 kcal
Protein 35 g
Carbohydrates 25 g
Fat 20 g
Fiber 3 g
Sodium 500 mg