Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Balsamic Garlic Glaze Recipe
Whenever I crave something truly bursting with flavor and simple to prepare, my go-to is Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Balsamic Garlic Glaze. This dish brings together tender, juicy chicken cubes marinated in a vibrant blend of herbs, lemon, and garlic, then kissed with a rich, sticky balsamic glaze that elevates every bite. It’s the perfect balance of tangy, savory, and sweet, perfect for a weekday dinner or weekend gathering where you want to impress without stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of straightforward, fresh ingredients is all you need to create this delicious Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Balsamic Garlic Glaze. Each element plays a special role in building layers of flavor and texture that make this dish stand out.
- Chicken breasts (1 ½ pounds): Cubed into bite-sized pieces for even grilling and quick cooking.
- Olive oil (3 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps the marinade cling to the chicken perfectly.
- Balsamic vinegar (2 tablespoons for marinade + 2 tablespoons for glaze): Brings that deep, tangy sweetness essential to the glaze and marinade.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the chicken and glaze with that irresistible aromatic punch.
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Offers a classic Greek herbal note that brightens the flavor.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Provides a fresh, zesty contrast to the balsamic’s sweetness.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all the flavors beautifully.
- Honey (1 tablespoon): Sweetens and thickens the balsamic glaze for a luscious finish.
- Wooden or metal skewers: For threading the chicken, making grilling easy and fun.
- Fresh parsley: Adds a bright, fresh garnish to complete the dish visually and flavor-wise.
How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Balsamic Garlic Glaze
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade and Marinate the Chicken
Start by whisking together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. This marinade is where the magic begins, infusing the chicken cubes with vibrant Mediterranean flavors. Toss the chicken in the marinade, ensuring every piece is coated, then cover and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. Giving it time to soak in this herbaceous, tangy mixture helps keep the chicken juicy and flavorful during grilling.
Step 2: Preheat and Thread the Chicken
While the chicken marinates, get your grill or grill pan heating up over medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto your skewers, leaving a little space between pieces to allow for even cooking and that coveted smoky char. This step turns simple chicken into a handheld delight that grills evenly and looks fantastic on the plate.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken to Perfection
Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally. The chicken should develop nice grill marks and a slightly charred exterior while remaining juicy inside. This moment is where the flavors deepen, and the texture becomes wonderfully tender, ensuring each bite is pure satisfaction.
Step 4: Prepare the Balsamic Garlic Glaze
While the chicken grills, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, and minced garlic in a small saucepan. Simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until the glaze thickens slightly and becomes glossy. This sticky, sweet glaze will add that irresistible finishing touch, balancing the savory marinade and charred chicken beautifully.
Step 5: Glaze and Finish Grilling
In the final minute of grilling, brush the balsamic garlic glaze generously over each skewer. This step adds a caramelized sheen and an extra burst of flavor that takes this souvlaki from delicious to unforgettable. Once glazed, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest briefly before serving.
How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Balsamic Garlic Glaze
Garnishes
Fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a lovely touch of green that brightens the plate and provides a mild, herbaceous flavor contrast to the rich glaze. Sometimes I also like a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving to add a zesty lift that complements the balsamic beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice, warm pita bread, or a crisp Greek salad loaded with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta. The sides bring balance and freshness that make each bite an exciting flavor journey, perfect for a satisfying, wholesome meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the skewers deconstructed on a platter alongside tzatziki sauce and all the classic souvlaki fixings, letting guests build their own wraps. Alternatively, serve the chicken skewers over a bed of quinoa or roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutrient-packed plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Balsamic Garlic Glaze keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to store the chicken separately from any fresh garnishes to keep everything tasting fresh.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze the cooked chicken skewers in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to preserve the texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the skewers in a skillet over medium heat or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Avoid microwave reheating to keep the chicken juicy and prevent the glaze from becoming too sticky or dried out.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work great in Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Balsamic Garlic Glaze since they’re more forgiving and stay juicy even if slightly overcooked. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces for even grilling.
Do I need to soak wooden skewers before grilling?
Yes, soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling helps prevent them from burning or catching fire on the grill. It’s a simple step that makes grilling safer and easier.
Can I make the marinade and glaze ahead of time?
Definitely! The marinade can be mixed and stored for up to 24 hours in the fridge, making it perfect for prepping in advance. The glaze is best made fresh for the richest flavor but can be made a day ahead and gently reheated.
What if I don’t have a grill or grill pan?
You can cook the skewers under a broiler or in a regular skillet on the stovetop. Just watch closely to get a bit of char and ensure the chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Balsamic Garlic Glaze is fantastic for meal prep! It stays delicious after reheating and pairs well with a variety of salads, grains, or roasted veggies to keep your meals exciting throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly rewarding about making Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Balsamic Garlic Glaze at home—it’s easy, packed with flavor, and always draws compliments. Whether you’re an experienced griller or just getting started, this recipe invites you to enjoy a little taste of the Mediterranean in your own kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll quickly become a favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.
