Authentic Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers Recipe – Easy & Flavorful

If you’re looking to bring the sunny, fresh flavors of the Mediterranean to your kitchen, this Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers Recipe is the perfect choice. Packed with bright citrus, fragrant herbs, and tender grilled chicken, this dish is a staple in Greek cuisine and beloved across the globe for its balance of zest, simplicity, and bold flavor. These skewers are great for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or as a show-stopping centerpiece for outdoor BBQs.

Originating from traditional Greek souvlaki, these lemony chicken skewers are typically marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and a touch of yogurt to tenderize the meat. Grilled to perfection, the result is juicy, flavorful chicken that pairs beautifully with pita bread, tzatziki, or a classic Greek salad.

Let’s dive into how to make this easy, authentic, and absolutely mouth-watering dish at home.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 290 kcal

• Protein: 32g

• Carbohydrates: 4g

• Fat: 16g

• Saturated Fat: 3g

• Cholesterol: 90mg

• Sodium: 420mg

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 1g

Prep Time, Active Time, and More

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Marinating Time: 30 minutes – 2 hours (or overnight for best results)

• Active Cooking Time: 15 minutes

• Resting Time: 5 minutes

• Total Time: ~1 hour (includes marination)

• Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean

• Course: Main Course, Dinner

• Servings: 4 skewers (serves 2–4 people)

• Calories per serving: ~290 kcal

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls

• Whisk

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Cutting board & sharp knife

• Skewers (metal or soaked bamboo)

• Grill pan, outdoor grill, or air fryer

• Tongs

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)

• 2 teaspoons lemon zest

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt (optional, for extra tenderness)

For the Chicken Skewers:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch cubes

• Fresh parsley or dill (for garnish)

• Lemon wedges (for serving)

• Pita bread and tzatziki (optional sides)

Instructions

 

1. Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, black pepper, and Greek yogurt (if using). The yogurt helps tenderize the chicken and gives it a creamy texture, but it’s optional.

2. Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl or ziplock bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 2 hours. For maximum flavor, marinate overnight.

3. Prepare the Skewers

If you’re using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece to allow even cooking.

4. Grill the Skewers

Preheat a grill, grill pan, or air fryer to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates or basket if needed.

• Grill method: Cook the skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning every few minutes until the chicken is cooked through and has nice charred edges.

• Air fryer method: Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Air fry for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway through.

Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

5. Rest and Serve

Remove the skewers from heat and let them rest for 5 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and lemon wedges. Accompany with pita, tzatziki sauce, or a fresh cucumber salad for a complete Greek meal.

Serving Suggestions

• With pita bread and tzatziki: Classic Greek combo for a handheld delight.

• Over rice or quinoa: Turns the skewers into a hearty, balanced meal.

• On top of a Greek salad: Add protein and flavor to your greens.

• As part of a mezze platter: Combine with hummus, olives, dolmas, and grilled vegetables.

Tips for Success

• Don’t skip the lemon zest: It intensifies the citrus aroma and brings depth to the marinade.

• Marinate long enough: The acids in lemon and yogurt help tenderize the meat. At least 30 minutes is good, but overnight is best.

• Use thighs for juicier meat: While breasts work fine, boneless chicken thighs give more flavor and stay moist on the grill.

• Uniform pieces: Cut chicken into evenly-sized cubes to ensure consistent cooking.

• Don’t overcrowd the grill or air fryer: Give your skewers space to char properly for that irresistible smoky edge.

Variations

• Herb swap: Use fresh rosemary or basil in place of oregano for a different herbal note.

• Spicy version: Add 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the marinade.

• Veggie skewers: Add chunks of bell peppers, red onions, and zucchini in between the chicken pieces.

• Lamb or tofu alternative: Use the same marinade for lamb cubes or pressed tofu for a Mediterranean vegetarian option.

Make-Ahead and Storage

• Make ahead: You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat gently in a microwave or skillet. You can also remove the chicken from the skewers and toss it into wraps or salads.

Conclusion

This Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers Recipe is a flavorful, vibrant, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a festive summer gathering. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of marinating time, you can create a Mediterranean masterpiece right at home. The zesty lemon and aromatic herbs infuse the chicken with unforgettable taste, making it a go-to recipe for those who love bold yet healthy meals.