Name: Greek Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Salad Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h 32 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless skinless, cut into 1 ½” pieces; 3 cloves garlic, grated; 3 tbsp lemon juice; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 4 tbsp Greek yogurt (whole milk or sour cream); 2 tbsp oregano, dried or fresh finely chopped; ¾ tsp kosher salt; ½ cup Greek yogurt (whole milk or sour cream); 1 small cucumber, grated and juices squeezed out; ½ tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 2 tbsp lemon juice, or more to taste; 1 clove garlic, grated; 1 tbsp dill or parsley, finely chopped; ½ tsp salt; 2 heads romaine, chopped; 3 small cucumbers, sliced; 8 oz cherry tomatoes, diced; ½ small red onion, thinly sliced; ½ cup kalamata olives; 2 tbsp white wine vinegar; 4 tbsp olive oil; ½ tsp salt, or more to taste

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If you are craving a meal that bursts with vibrant Mediterranean flavors and feels like a warm hug on your plate, then this Greek Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender, juicy chicken souvlaki marinated in garlic, lemon, and oregano is grilled to perfection and paired with a crisp Greek salad, all brought together by a creamy, refreshing tzatziki sauce. This dish is fresh, satisfying, and versatile enough to enjoy any time of the year, whether for a quick weekday lunch or a lively weekend dinner with friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white rectangular dish with black rim is filled with pink raw chicken pieces, showing layers of soft texture and a few white fat spots spread across the top, placed on a white marbled surface. To the top left of the dish, there is a small white bowl with grated yellow ginger on it, next to a halved lemon showing its bright yellow inside, and some green fresh herbs with thin leaves resting vertically. Below the dish, on the white marbled surface, there are three small white bowls, one containing thick white yogurt, another with a pale yellow liquid that looks like oil, and the smallest bowl holding some white salt. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. From the savory marinade to the crisp vegetables and creamy tzatziki, these simple components come together beautifully to make a dish that’s as colorful as it is delicious.

Chicken Thighs: These provide juicy, flavorful meat that stays tender on the grill, perfect for souvlaki.
Garlic: Freshly grated garlic adds a pungent, aromatic depth to both the marinade and tzatziki sauce.
Lemon Juice: Gives a bright, zesty tang that lifts the flavors throughout the dish.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Brings fruitiness and richness to the marinade and salad dressing.
Greek Yogurt (or Sour Cream): Adds creaminess and a slight tang, crucial for the marinade and tzatziki.
Oregano: A classic Greek herb that infuses the chicken with authentic Mediterranean aroma.
Kosher Salt: Essential for seasoning, balancing the flavors perfectly.
Cucumber: Adds refreshing crunch to the salad, and when grated for tzatziki, delivers cool creaminess.
Dill or Parsley: Fresh herbs that brighten the tzatziki and garnish the salad with green freshness.
Romaine Lettuce: Provides a crisp, sturdy bed for the salad, holding up well under the juicy chicken pieces.
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and tangy, they burst with flavor in every bite.
Red Onion: Thinly sliced for subtle sharpness and color contrast.
Kalamata Olives: Briny and rich, these olives add a distinctive Mediterranean punch.
White Wine Vinegar: Adds acidity to balance the salad dressing perfectly.

How to Make Greek Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Marinade

Start by combining grated garlic, lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, Greek yogurt, oregano, and kosher salt in a large bowl. This mixture not only tenderizes the chicken thighs but also infuses them with vibrant layers of flavor that are quintessential to the Greek Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Salad Recipe. Toss the chicken pieces in the marinade, ensuring they’re well-coated, then cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight. This waiting time is key to achieving juicy, flavorful meat.

Step 2: Make the Tzatziki Sauce

While the chicken marinates, prepare the tzatziki sauce for a cooling and creamy contrast. In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber from which you’ve squeezed out all the excess liquid, olive oil, lemon juice, grated garlic, fresh dill or parsley, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything until smooth and refrigerate so the flavors meld. This sauce is the perfect complement to the grilled chicken’s smoky notes.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken Souvlaki

Preheat your grill or grill pan until it’s nice and hot. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking. Grill the chicken for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, turning once, until charred edges develop and the meat reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The grilling imparts that irresistible smoky flavor that is the hallmark of the Greek Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Salad Recipe.

Step 4: Prepare the Greek Salad

While the chicken cooks, assemble your salad. In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, sliced cucumbers, diced cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onions, and Kalamata olives. Whisk together white wine vinegar, olive oil, and salt to make a simple yet bright dressing. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine so every ingredient shines with Mediterranean freshness.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad with Chicken

To serve, lay a generous bed of the Greek salad on each plate. Remove the chicken skewers from the grill and transfer the cooked souvlaki pieces over the salad. Add a spoonful of the chilled tzatziki sauce on top or on the side, and get ready to dive into a perfect balance of smoky, tangy, creamy, and crisp sensations — the essence of the Greek Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Salad Recipe.

How to Serve Greek Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Salad Recipe

The image shows two white bowls with red rims on a white marbled surface. Each bowl has a layered salad starting with green lettuce at the bottom. On top of the lettuce are grilled chicken skewers with a slightly browned look. One bowl shows a mix of dark purple olives on the left side, diced green cucumber pieces beside them, a scoop of white creamy sauce in the center, and thin slices of red onion on the right side. Colorful halved cherry tomatoes in red, orange, and yellow are placed near the bottom right with a black spoon resting inside the front bowl. To the left of the bowls, there is a glass jar filled with a yellow liquid, likely dressing, and some green leafy stems nearby. A striped cloth napkin appears on the right side of the front bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A few extra touches can elevate your presentation and flavor. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or dill over the salad for a burst of herbal freshness. A wedge of lemon on the side invites a final squeeze of brightness. For some extra indulgence, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top to add a salty, creamy dimension that pairs beautifully with the grilled chicken.

Side Dishes

Pair this salad with warm pita bread or grilled flatbreads to soak up any leftover tzatziki or dressing—the perfect way to enjoy every last bite. If you want to keep things lighter, a side of roasted vegetables like eggplants or bell peppers complements the Mediterranean vibe beautifully. For something heartier, consider serving alongside lemon roasted potatoes.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining, try serving this Greek Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Salad Recipe as a deconstructed platter. Arrange all components separately with dipping tzatziki and grilled chicken skewers for a fun DIY experience. Alternatively, wrap the grilled chicken and salad ingredients in warm pita wraps for handheld Greek souvlaki sandwiches that are great for picnics or casual lunches.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover grilled chicken and salad components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The chicken will stay delicious for up to three days, while the salad is best eaten within one to two days before the vegetables start to lose their crunch.

Freezing

Grilled chicken souvlaki can be frozen for longer storage. Place the cooled chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a sealed freezer bag or container. They keep well for up to two months. Avoid freezing the salad or tzatziki, as the texture and flavor won’t hold up well after thawing.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken gently on the grill or a stovetop pan to regain some of its charred crispness. Avoid microwaving to prevent drying out the meat. Serve with freshly tossed salad and cold tzatziki for the best experience, just like when freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can swap chicken thighs for chicken breast for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that chicken breast can dry out more quickly on the grill, so watch the cooking time closely to keep it tender and juicy.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinating for at least one hour is ideal to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply. However, marinating overnight will create even more tender and flavorful chicken for your Greek Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Salad Recipe.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for tzatziki?

Absolutely! You can make a delicious dairy-free tzatziki by substituting coconut yogurt or another plant-based yogurt for the Greek yogurt. Just be sure to use unsweetened varieties to maintain the savory flavor profile.

Can I cook the chicken souvlaki indoors?

Yes, if you don’t have access to a grill, a grill pan or a broiler in your oven can mimic the charred effect. Just preheat well and turn the chicken pieces to ensure even cooking and caramelization.

What type of olives works best for this salad?

Kalamata olives are traditional and bring a distinct, slightly fruity saltiness that complements the salad perfectly. If unavailable, you can substitute with other briny black olives, but Kalamata remains the gold standard for authenticity.

Final Thoughts

This Greek Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Salad Recipe is an absolute celebration of Mediterranean cuisine on your plate. It’s fresh, easy, and packed with flavors that make every bite a memorable experience. Whether you’re new to Greek cooking or a seasoned fan, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try soon — your taste buds will thank you!