Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Maple Dijon Glaze Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with vibrant Mediterranean flavors paired with a touch of sweet and tangy magic, you’ve just found it. Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Maple Dijon Glaze transforms simple chicken into a mouthwatering experience where juicy, tender bites meet a glossy, flavorful glaze that’s fun to make and impossible to resist. This recipe balances traditional Greek herbs and citrus with the surprising warmth of maple syrup and the tang of Dijon mustard, making every skewer a celebration of taste and texture.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with the perfect Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Maple Dijon Glaze means gathering a handful of straightforward ingredients that pack serious punch. Each component is chosen not just for flavor, but to build layers of texture and vibrant color that make this dish visually as well as deliciously stunning.

• Chicken breasts (1 ½ lbs, cut into 1-inch cubes): The star protein that soaks up every bit of marinade, yielding juicy, tender bites.
• Olive oil (3 tablespoons + 1 tablespoon for glaze): Adds smooth richness and helps with grilling, locking in moisture.
• Lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Brings bright acidity that balances the savory herbs and glaze perfectly.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Introduces a warm, aromatic base that’s classic in Greek cooking.
• Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): The quintessential herb for that unmistakable Mediterranean flavor.
• Salt and black pepper: Essentials to enhance all other tastes and season the chicken well.
• Wooden or metal skewers: Necessary for grilling and presentation, choose based on preference and ease.
• Dijon mustard (2 tablespoons): Provides a tangy, creamy element to the maple glaze.
• Pure maple syrup (1 ½ tablespoons): Adds unexpected sweetness that caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
• Apple cider vinegar (1 teaspoon): Elevates the glaze with a subtle fruity sharpness.

How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Maple Dijon Glaze

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin by mixing olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl to create a marinade that’s brimming with Mediterranean zest. Toss the chicken cubes well in this mixture, ensuring every piece is coated in the flavorful blend. Let the chicken rest for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you have time. This marinating step is key—it softens the chicken and infuses each bite with bright, herby goodness that’s the hallmark of Greek cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Grill and Skewers

While your chicken marinates, soak wooden skewers in water for about 20 minutes to prevent burning, or opt for metal skewers if you prefer hassle-free grilling. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Once hot, thread the marinated chicken pieces onto your skewers, packing them just close enough to cook evenly but not so tight that they steam instead of grill.

Step 3: Make the Maple Dijon Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil until smooth and glossy. This glaze is where the magic happens, bringing a dance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes that elevate the chicken from delicious to unforgettable.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Place your skewers on the grill and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally to develop a gorgeous char and ensure even cooking. In the last few minutes, generously brush the maple Dijon glaze onto the chicken. This final step caramelizes the glaze and adds a shiny, irresistible finish that’s sticky and packed with flavor.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Maple Dijon Glaze

Garnishes

Adding fresh garnishes enhances the colors and textures, making your dish pop on the plate. Think freshly chopped parsley or oregano for a vibrant green contrast, and perhaps some thin lemon wedges to squeeze over the top for an extra hit of brightness that complements the maple Dijon glaze beautifully.

Side Dishes

Classic accompaniments like fluffy rice, warm pita bread, or a crisp Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and feta cheese are perfect. These sides bring diverse textures—from crunchy to creamy—and help balance the richness of the grilled chicken and its luscious glaze.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the skewers on a large wooden board alongside bowls of tzatziki, olives, and roasted veggies. Alternatively, chop the grilled chicken and turn your souvlaki into a vibrant pita sandwich drizzled with extra glaze and stuffed with fresh veggies, creating a handheld delight that’s perfect for casual gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Maple Dijon Glaze keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It remains flavorful and moist, making it an excellent option for quick next-day meals or lunchboxes.

Freezing

If you want to stock up, the cooked skewers freeze beautifully. Wrap each skewer tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can stay fresh for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the skewers under the broiler or in a hot oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through and the glaze regains its sticky charm. Avoid the microwave if you can, as grilling or oven heating preserves the chicken’s texture much better.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor—just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through depending on their size.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free mustard and verify your maple syrup doesn’t contain additives. Always check the labels to be sure.

Can I prepare the marinade and glaze ahead of time?

Definitely! The marinade and glaze can be made a day ahead and stored separately in the refrigerator. This makes assembling and grilling a breeze when you’re ready.

What if I don’t have a grill or grill pan?

No worries—you can cook the skewers under a hot broiler or on a stovetop grill pan. Just keep a close eye to avoid burning and turn frequently for even cooking.

How sweet is the maple Dijon glaze?

The glaze strikes a balanced sweet-and-tangy note. The maple syrup adds a mild sweetness that caramelizes nicely while the Dijon and apple cider vinegar bring in a gentle sharpness, making it irresistible but not overpowering.

Final Thoughts

Sharing this Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Maple Dijon Glaze recipe feels like passing along a little piece of sunshine and flavor. Whether you’re hosting friends, family, or simply treating yourself, this dish delivers an uplifting mix of bright herbs, juicy chicken, and that unforgettable glaze. Give it a try—you’ll soon find it’s the kind of recipe that becomes a beloved go-to in your kitchen!