Chicken Souvlaki Grazing Board Recipe
If you love Mediterranean flavors and vibrant, shareable meals, the Chicken Souvlaki Grazing Board is going to become your new favorite way to entertain or enjoy lunch. This dish brings together perfectly marinated, juicy chicken skewers with fresh, colorful accompaniments like cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber slices, tangy feta, and creamy tzatziki. It’s all about layering texture, flavor, and a little dash of fun to create a grazing board that invites everyone to dive in and savor the bright, herby, lemony goodness that makes Greek cuisine so irresistible. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself, this Chicken Souvlaki Grazing Board is a feast for the eyes and the palate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, fresh ingredients are the heart of this Chicken Souvlaki Grazing Board. Each one adds its own magic: from the succulent chicken infused with zesty lemon and oregano, to the cool crunch of cucumbers and the salty pop of Kalamata olives. Together, they create a delightful balance that’s easy to assemble and irresistible to eat.
- Chicken breasts or thighs, 1 lb: Choose your favorite cut; thighs are juicier, breasts are leaner.
- Olive oil, 2 tablespoons: Adds richness and helps the marinade penetrate the chicken.
- Dried oregano, 1 teaspoon: This classic herb gives that unmistakable Greek flavor.
- Garlic powder, 1 teaspoon: For a subtle, savory depth that complements the fresh ingredients.
- Juice of 1 lemon: Brightens the dish with zesty acidity and tenderizes the chicken.
- Salt & pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
- Wooden skewers: Soak in water if using to prevent burning during cooking.
- Cherry tomatoes: Sweet, juicy bursts that add vibrant color and freshness.
- Cucumber slices: Crisp and cooling, perfect for balance.
- Kalamata olives: Rich, briny, and slightly fruity for complexity.
- Pita bread or pita chips: Ideal for scooping up bites and adding a soft or crunchy texture.
- Tzatziki or Greek yogurt dip: Creamy and refreshing, a must-have for dipping or spreading.
- Feta cheese, cubed: Tangy and crumbly, it brings a salty creaminess.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a pop of bright green and herbal freshness.
How to Make Chicken Souvlaki Grazing Board
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by tossing your bite-sized chicken pieces in olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This marinade does all the heavy lifting, infusing the chicken with those iconic Mediterranean flavors. Let it soak up all those herbs and citrus for at least 15 minutes if you can, but even a quick toss before cooking works wonders.
Step 2: Skewer and Cook
Thread the marinated chicken onto soaked wooden skewers, spacing the pieces slightly apart to ensure even cooking. Whether you’re grilling for that smoky char or using a skillet for convenience, cook the chicken for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally. You want the meat cooked through but still juicy, with beautiful grill marks or a golden crust.
Step 3: Arrange the Grazing Board
Once your chicken skewers are ready, it’s all about assembly! On a large wooden or slate board, artistically arrange the skewers alongside piles of cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, Kalamata olives, cubes of feta cheese, wedges or chips of pita, and a generous dollop of tzatziki. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a lovely, fresh finish that brings everything together visually and taste-wise.
How to Serve Chicken Souvlaki Grazing Board
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a simple yet vibrant garnish that adds color and a little herbal brightness to your grazing board. You can also consider a sprinkle of sumac or a drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil for an extra touch of Greek authenticity.
Side Dishes
This Chicken Souvlaki Grazing Board is hearty enough on its own but pairs beautifully with light side dishes like a Greek salad, lemon roasted potatoes, or a crisp, chilled glass of white wine. The freshness of these sides complements the warm, flavorful chicken, making every bite even more satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this board on a rustic wooden platter or a large ceramic dish to enhance its Mediterranean vibe. For a fun twist, use mini pita pockets or small plates for guests to build their own wraps. Adding a few colorful bowls for the olives, dips, and tomatoes keeps things neat while encouraging everyone to explore different flavor combos.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers from your Chicken Souvlaki Grazing Board, store the chicken skewers separate from the vegetables and dips in airtight containers. This keeps everything fresh and prevents sogginess, making your next meal just as enjoyable.
Freezing
Cooked chicken skewers freeze well if you want to prepare ahead. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.
Reheating
To reheat your chicken skewers, use a skillet over medium heat to gently warm them without drying out the meat. A quick blast in the microwave works too but watch carefully to maintain juiciness. Avoid reheating the fresh veggies and dips; serve those cold and fresh for the best flavor.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for the Chicken Souvlaki Grazing Board?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts are leaner and cook a bit faster, but with the marinade, they still turn out tender and flavorful. Just watch the cooking time closely to avoid drying out.
Is it necessary to soak the wooden skewers beforehand?
Soaking the skewers in water for at least 30 minutes helps prevent them from burning on the grill or skillet. It’s a simple step that protects both your skewers and your stovetop or grill.
What can I substitute for Kalamata olives if I don’t have any?
If Kalamata olives aren’t available, you can use any briny, flavorful olive like black Spanish or Castelvetrano for a milder taste. Just choose olives that pack a little punch to keep that Mediterranean vibe.
Is tzatziki necessary, or can I use another dip?
Tzatziki is traditional and adds cooling creaminess that pairs perfectly with the chicken and veggies. However, Greek yogurt with a squeeze of lemon and some fresh herbs can work well if you want a simpler or dairy-free option.
Can this Chicken Souvlaki Grazing Board be made vegetarian?
While the star is definitely the chicken, you could swap it out for grilled halloumi cheese, marinated tofu, or even roasted vegetables like zucchini and eggplant to create a vegetarian-friendly grazing board with similar flavors.
Final Thoughts
Sharing a Chicken Souvlaki Grazing Board is like bringing a piece of the Mediterranean to your table—full of warmth, color, and incredible flavors that make every bite feel special. It’s easy to prepare, fun to eat, and perfect for enjoying with family and friends. I promise, once you try this, it will become your go-to crowd-pleaser for every season. Give it a try and watch it disappear!
