Healthy Mediterranean chicken recipes are perfect when you want something fresh, high in protein, and packed with bright, bold flavor. These Grilled Greek Chicken Kabobs, also known as Chicken Souvlaki, are marinated in a vibrant blend of oregano, garlic, lemon, olive oil, and classic seasonings for incredibly juicy, flavorful bites.
The marinade is simple but powerful. Fresh oregano, garlic, and lemon infuse the chicken with that signature Greek taste, while olive oil keeps everything tender and moist. The result is chicken that’s light yet deeply satisfying.
Served alongside warm grilled pita, these kabobs make a complete and crowd-pleasing meal. They’re naturally gluten free, low carb, low fat, paleo friendly, and Whole30 compliant, making them a versatile option for many eating styles.
No grill? No problem. You can easily prepare the chicken souvlaki in the oven with equally delicious results. With just about 10 minutes of prep and a handful of pantry staples, this Greek-inspired main course is surprisingly easy to recreate at home.
Chicken Souvlaki
Healthy Mediterranean chicken recipes are perfect when you want something fresh, high in protein, and packed with bright, bold flavor. These Grilled Greek Chicken Kabobs, also known as Chicken Souvlaki, are marinated in a vibrant blend of oregano, garlic, lemon, olive oil, and classic seasonings for incredibly juicy, flavorful bites.
Ingredients
Chicken Souvlaki:
- 1.5 lbs Chicken (3–4 boneless breast or 12–14 chicken tenders)
- 3 tbsp Oregano (fresh leaves, or 1.5 tbsp dried, or mix half-half)
- 1 tbsp Garlic (about 4–5 garlic cloves, fresh minced)
- 3 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1/4 Cup Lemon (juice, about 1 large lemon's juice)
- 1/2 tsp Cumin Powder
- 2 tbsp Parsley (fresh leaves, chopped)
- 1/2 tsp Chili Flakes
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper (freshly cracked)
Grilled Pita, for Serving (optional):
- Oil Spray
- Pita Bread
Instructions
1. Prepare the Souvlaki Marinade
In a wide bowl with a lid or a sealable bag, combine all the marinade ingredients (everything except the chicken). Mix well and set aside.
2. Marinate the Chicken
Cut the chicken breast into 1–2 inch pieces and add them to the marinade. Toss until fully coated. Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate until ready to cook. Marinating for 20–30 minutes will tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor, though you can marinate it overnight if preferred.
Additional Notes:
You can also use chicken tenders or slice the chicken breast into strips (about 2 inches long and 1–2 inches wide). Arrange on a tray, cover with plastic wrap, and gently pound to create even thickness.
3. Skewer and Grill
Preheat the grill. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers (about 4–5 long tenders per skewer). Grill on the preheated grill, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and lightly charred on all sides.
Additional Notes:
If baking instead, refer to the “Oven Method” in the recipe notes.
4. Grill the Pita and Serve
If serving with grilled pita, lightly brush or spray the pita bread with oil and grill for 30 seconds to 1 minute per side, until grill marks appear. Serve alongside the chicken souvlaki and enjoy.
Notes
Grilling Tips
- Leave a little space near the handle of each skewer to make turning and removing them from the grill easier.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water beforehand to prevent burning. You can also wrap the exposed ends with aluminum foil for extra protection while grilling.
Chicken Souvlaki in the Oven
To cook in the oven, preheat the oven and place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Turn the broiler on and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and lightly browned.
Calories Per Serving
Each serving contains approximately 328 calories. This estimate does not include pita bread or rice served on the side. Keep in mind that much of the oil in the marinade drips off during grilling, so the actual calorie count may be slightly lower.
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