Name: Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Recipe
Prep time: 2 h 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h 25 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 10 garlic cloves, peeled; 2 tbsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried rosemary; 1 tsp sweet paprika; 1 tsp Kosher salt; 1 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup Private Reserve Greek extra virgin olive oil; 1/4 cup dry white wine; Juice of 1 lemon; 2 bay leaves; 2 1/2 lb organic boneless skinless chicken breast, fat removed, cut into 1 1/2 inch pieces; Greek pita bread; Tzatziki Sauce (prepare as per recipe); Sliced tomato; Sliced cucumber; Sliced onions; Kalamata olives; Greek salad; Roasted Garlic Hummus; Mezze Platter; Watermelon and Cucumber Salad

If you're craving a dish that bursts with sunshine and Mediterranean charm, then this Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Recipe is exactly what you need. I can’t wait to show you how simple marinated grilled chicken turns into a vibrant, tasty feast right in your own kitchen!

Two wooden skewers hold chunks of grilled chicken with a yellowish seasoning that has darker brown grill marks on the edges. The skewers rest on a blue patterned white plate with a slightly scalloped edge. In the background, there are some red slices of tomato and a stack of light-colored flatbread. The whole scene is set on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This recipe has become one of my absolute favorites for casual get-togethers or weeknight dinners. The marinade is genuinely bursting with traditional Greek flavors that make the chicken so tender and flavorful, and pairing it with creamy homemade tzatziki just seals the deal every single time.

Authentic Mediterranean Flair: The classic combination of garlic, oregano, and lemon transports your taste buds straight to the streets of Athens.
Versatile Grilling Options: Perfect for outdoor grilling or an indoor griddle – no matter your setup, this recipe shines.
Fresh & Vibrant Sides: The fresh pita, sliced veggies, and olives add the perfect crunch and brightness to every bite.
Make Ahead Friendly: Marinate overnight for deeper flavor, or keep it quick with a 30-minute room temperature marinade if you’re short on time.

Ingredients & Why They Work

When shopping for this Greek-inspired dish, fresh, high-quality ingredients make all the difference. I always recommend using good extra virgin olive oil and organic chicken when possible – it really elevates the flavors and keeps everything tasting fresh and vibrant.

Flat lay of peeled garlic cloves, dried oregano sprigs, dried rosemary twigs, bright red sweet paprika powder in a small white bowl, coarse kosher salt crystals in a small white bowl, whole black peppercorns in a small white bowl, small white bowl of golden extra virgin olive oil, small white bowl of clear dry white wine, a lemon cut in half showing juicy interior, two fresh green bay leaves, raw organic boneless skinless chicken breast pieces, whole brown eggs with clean shells, ripe red tomatoes sliced, fresh crisp cucumber slices, thinly sliced white onion rings, whole glossy black Kalamata olives, thick Greek pita bread stacked neatly — all arranged symmetrically on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Garlic cloves: Key for that pungent, aromatic base flavor that defines Greek marinades.
Dried oregano: The classic herb that brings that unmistakable Mediterranean earthiness.
Dried rosemary: Adds a subtle piney note to deepen the marinade's profile.
Sweet paprika: Provides a gentle smoky sweetness and a beautiful hue.
Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and helping tenderize the chicken.
Black pepper: Adds a little bite and complexity.
Greek extra virgin olive oil: Infuses the marinade with fruity richness and helps keep the chicken juicy.
Dry white wine: Brightens the marinade and adds an acidic balance.
Lemon juice: Brings that quintessential zesty tang that wakes up every flavor.
Bay leaves: Infuse subtle aromatic depth during marination.
Organic boneless skinless chicken breast: Lean and tender, cut into perfect-sized pieces for grilling.
Greek pita bread: Soft and pillowy, perfect for wrapping your souvlaki.
Tzatziki Sauce: Creamy cucumber yogurt dip that cools and complements the grilled chicken wonderfully.
Sliced tomato, cucumber, onions, and Kalamata olives: Fresh fixings that add texture and brightness.
Optional sides like Greek salad, roasted garlic hummus, and mezze platters: Round out the meal for a true Mediterranean experience.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

The beauty of this Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Recipe is how easily you can customize it to fit your mood, pantry, or dietary needs. Whether you love extra spice or want a lighter option, there’s a variation here to suit your style—and don’t worry, I’ll share some of my favorite tweaks too!

Herb-forward twist: I love adding fresh herbs like chopped mint and dill directly into the marinade for an extra burst of freshness. It brightens the chicken beautifully and pairs perfectly with the creamy Tzatziki.
Spicy upgrade: For a bit of heat, sprinkle in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes in the marinade. It adds a subtle kick without overpowering the classic flavors.
Vegetarian alternative: Swap the chicken for thick slices of halloumi cheese or large portobello mushrooms. Brush them in the same marinade and grill until nicely charred for an equally delicious souvlaki experience.
Summer seasonal edit: Add grilled zucchini or bell pepper on the skewers alongside the chicken for sweeter, smoky notes and extra veggies to your meal.
Quick marinade hack: No time for the full 2-hour soak? Marinate your chicken for 30 minutes at room temperature—you’ll still get plenty of flavor and tenderness.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Recipe

The image shows a white plate with a blue floral pattern filled with six grilled skewers of golden-brown chicken, each skewer holding about four to five pieces with visible char marks. To the upper left of the chicken, there are thin slices of white onion, glossy black olives at the top center, and several bright red tomato wedges on the upper right side. The plate is placed on a wooden surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Whip Up the Flavorful Marinade

Start by tossing garlic, dried oregano, rosemary, sweet paprika, Kosher salt, black pepper, Greek olive oil, dry white wine, and fresh lemon juice into a small food processor. Pulse the mixture until it becomes a smooth, fragrant blend. Don’t add the bay leaves just yet—they’ll be mixed in with the chicken later. This marinade is bursting with classic Mediterranean notes that really set the tone for your souvlaki.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken for Deep Flavor

Place your cut chicken pieces in a large bowl and nestle in the bay leaves. Pour the marinade over the chicken, then toss everything until each piece is evenly coated. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for at least 2 hours—or overnight if you want to prep in advance. This gives the chicken time to soak up all those incredible herbs and spices.

Step 3: Prep Your Skewers and Sides While You Wait

Soak 10 to 12 wooden skewers in water for 30 to 45 minutes to keep them from burning while grilling. Use this time wisely to prepare your fresh fixings: slice tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and set out Kalamata olives. I always make the Tzatziki sauce now too so it’s nice and chilled. Optional sides like a crisp Greek salad or roasted garlic hummus can round out your meal beautifully.

Step 4: Thread the Chicken Onto Skewers

When you’re ready to cook, thread the marinated chicken pieces evenly onto the soaked skewers. Be sure not to crowd them, so the heat can circulate well and cook each piece evenly.

Step 5: Grill to Juicy Perfection

Preheat your grill or griddle to medium-high and brush the grates lightly with oil to prevent sticking. Place the chicken skewers on the grill and cook, turning frequently, for about 5 minutes total. Use a meat thermometer to check—when the internal temperature hits 160°F, take them off. They’ll continue cooking to a safe 165°F as they rest. Don’t forget to brush the chicken lightly with the leftover marinade while grilling, but always discard any marinade that’s touched raw chicken.

Step 6: Rest Chicken and Warm Your Pitas

Transfer your grilled chicken skewers to a platter and let them rest for about 3 minutes. This helps lock in the juices. Meanwhile, throw the pita on the grill for just a minute or two until they’re warm and have a few lovely char marks—perfect for wrapping your souvlaki.

Step 7: Assemble and Serve Your Souvalki Pitas

Remove the chicken pieces from the skewers and spread a generous layer of cooling Tzatziki sauce onto each pita. Load them up with grilled chicken, then top with fresh tomato, cucumber, onions, and Kalamata olives. Add any optional sides you love, like Greek salad or hummus, and serve immediately. The combination of smoky grilled chicken and creamy, tangy Tzatziki is absolutely irresistible!

Top Tip

Mastering the Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Recipe is all about the details. These tips will help you bring out the most vibrant flavors and perfect texture every time.

Marinate Longer for Depth: I’ve found that marinating the chicken overnight, rather than just two hours, really intensifies those classic Greek flavors and keeps the chicken juicy and tender.
Soak Skewers Well: Soaking wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes prevents them from burning on the grill—a simple step that saved me from many a smoky mishap!
Control Your Grill Heat: Medium-high heat is key. Too hot and the chicken chars outside before cooking through; too low and the chicken dries out. Turning frequently helps achieve that balanced, even browning.
Don’t Skip the Rest: Letting the grilled chicken rest for about 3 minutes lets the juices redistribute, making each bite succulent and flavorful. It’s a small pause with a big payoff.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Recipe

Five wooden skewers are placed inside a white oval plate, each holding pieces of raw light pink chicken marinated with visible herbs and small bits of garlic, giving the chicken a slightly wet and shiny texture. The chicken pieces are irregular in shape and tightly packed on the skewers, glistening with a light layer of oil that spreads a golden tone around them on the plate. The plate is set on a smooth white marbled surface, its simple clean look emphasizing the color and texture of the marinated chicken. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

Freshness is everything here! I love topping the souvlaki pitas with sliced tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, thinly sliced onions, and briny Kalamata olives. Adding a sprinkle of extra dried oregano or a squeeze of lemon juice right before eating really brightens all the flavors.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs wonderfully with traditional Greek favorites—think a refreshing Greek salad with feta and olives, creamy roasted garlic hummus, a colorful mezze platter, or a light watermelon and cucumber salad to cut through the richness. These sides create a festive and balanced Mediterranean feast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once grilled, remove the chicken pieces from the skewers and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay perfectly good for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner.

Freezing

If you'd like to freeze, place cooked, cooled chicken pieces (off the skewers) in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftover souvlaki gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. This keeps the chicken tender and flavorful without drying it out. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can toughen the meat.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast for this Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor. Just be sure to adjust grilling time as thighs often need slightly longer to cook through.

How long can I marinate the chicken?

The chicken can marinate anywhere from 30 minutes at room temperature up to overnight in the fridge. Longer marinating enhances flavor and tenderness, but 30 minutes is fine in a pinch.

Is it necessary to soak wooden skewers?

Yes, soaking wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes prevents them from burning or catching fire on the grill, ensuring a safer and cleaner cooking experience.

Can I make the Tzatziki sauce in advance?

Definitely! Tzatziki sauce can be prepared a day ahead. In fact, letting it sit in the fridge allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Recipe is one of those dishes that brings both comfort and celebration to the table. From the fragrant marinade to the fresh toppings and creamy sauce, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy Mediterranean flavors at home. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or a lively gathering, these skewers never fail to impress. I hope you find this recipe as satisfying and joyful to make as I do—Opa!