Name: Oven Chicken Souvlaki
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 ½ lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1.5-inch pieces; 3 tbsp olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp dried oregano; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper; 1/2 tsp paprika or chili flakes

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Oven Chicken Souvlaki brings all the bold, sun-kissed flavors of Greece right into my kitchen, no grill required. With juicy marinated chicken roasted to perfection, this recipe lets me enjoy traditional souvlaki without stepping outside. It’s a fast and flavorful weeknight meal that fills the kitchen with irresistible Mediterranean aromas.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this chicken souvlaki is both easy and incredibly flavorful. The marinade—olive oil, lemon, garlic, and oregano—infuses the meat with deep, zesty notes. And by roasting in the oven, I still get that slight char and perfect tenderness, all with less mess. It’s one of those recipes that feels special, even though it doesn’t take much effort.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 ½ pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
3 tbsp olive oil
juice of 1 lemon
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp dried oregano
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1/2 tsp paprika or chili flakes

Directions

I start by cutting the chicken into even 1.5-inch pieces for quick and even cooking.
In a large bowl or zip-top bag, I mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika (or chili flakes), salt, and pepper.
I add the chicken pieces and toss them well in the marinade. I then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, though overnight gives the best flavor.
When I’m ready to cook, I preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C), using the grill function if available.
I thread the marinated chicken onto metal or soaked wooden skewers. If I’m not using skewers, I lay the chicken pieces on a wire rack over a baking sheet or directly on parchment.
I arrange the skewers on a rack over a lined baking tray for even airflow.
I roast the chicken for 12–15 minutes, just until the edges begin to blacken slightly.
After baking, I let the skewers rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 5 skewers.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Variations

When I want a different spin, I sometimes add a little cumin or smoked paprika to the marinade. For a spicy version, I use chili flakes generously or add a bit of hot sauce. I’ve also tried this with lamb or pork for variety, and they work wonderfully too. If I’m avoiding skewers, I bake the marinated pieces directly on a tray for a more casual presentation.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover chicken souvlaki keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or warm it gently in a skillet. I avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the chicken. It also tastes great cold, tossed into a salad or wrapped in pita.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, I often use either, depending on what I have. Thighs are juicier, but breasts work well too—just be sure not to overcook them.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

I always try for at least 2 hours, but overnight in the fridge makes the flavor really shine through.

Can I cook this without skewers?

Definitely. I just lay the chicken pieces on a parchment-lined tray or place them on a wire rack to mimic the grill effect.

What should I serve with chicken souvlaki?

I usually serve it with warm pita, tzatziki, tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion. Greek salad or lemony roasted potatoes are also excellent sides.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes. I often marinate the chicken and freeze it raw. When I’m ready to use it, I thaw it in the fridge and cook as usual.

Conclusion

This Oven Chicken Souvlaki gives me everything I love about Greek street food with the ease of home cooking. It’s fresh, savory, and endlessly adaptable—perfect for family dinners or casual entertaining. Whether served with pita, salad, or rice, it’s a flavorful way to bring the Mediterranean to the table.