Follow this recipe to make flavorful Greek Chicken Souvlaki marinated with lemon and oregano, served in warm pita bread with fresh Tzatziki sauce.
Author:Ahazzam
Prep Time:20 min
Cook Time:15 min
Total Time:2 hours 35 min
Yield:4 servings
Category:Dinner
Method:Grilling
Cuisine:Greek
Diet:Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
4 large pita breads
1 cup chopped tomatoes
1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For Tzatziki: 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1/2 cup grated cucumber (squeezed dry), 1 clove minced garlic, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar, pinch of salt
Instructions
Combine lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat completely. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or up to 8 hours.
Prepare the Tzatziki: In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, squeezed dry grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, vinegar, and salt. Stir well. Cover and chill until ready to serve.
If using skewers, thread the marinated chicken onto wooden or metal skewers. If not using skewers, proceed to the next step with the loose chicken pieces.
Cook the chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (or heat a large skillet over medium-high heat). Lightly oil the grates or pan.
Grill or pan-fry the chicken for 4 to 6 minutes per side, until cooked through and nicely charred. If using skewers, turn them as they cook. If using loose pieces, cook until browned on all sides. Remove from heat.
Warm the pita bread: Heat the pita breads directly on the grill for 30 seconds per side, or warm them briefly in a dry skillet until soft and pliable.
Assemble the pitas: Lay a warm pita flat. Spoon a generous amount of Tzatziki sauce down the center. Top with cooked chicken pieces. Add chopped tomatoes, sliced red onion, and chopped parsley.
Fold the pita around the filling and serve immediately.
Notes
If you do not have a grill, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.
Squeeze the grated cucumber very firmly to remove excess water for the best Tzatziki texture.
Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier results.