Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Maple Citrus Glaze Recipe

If you’ve been craving a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and brings a sunny Mediterranean vibe straight to your table, then this Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Maple Citrus Glaze is exactly what you need. Imagine tender, juicy chicken cubes marinated in a delightful blend of fresh lemon and orange juices, kissed by fragrant garlic and oregano, then grilled to perfection with a sweet, sticky maple syrup glaze that livens every bite. It’s a recipe that effortlessly balances savory, sweet, and tangy notes, turning simple chicken into a show-stopping meal that feels both wholesome and indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner or impressing friends at a weekend gathering, Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Maple Citrus Glaze never fails to bring smiles all around.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because it uses a handful of simple, fresh ingredients that work together like a dream. Each element plays a crucial role in building the bright, balanced flavors and beautiful textures that make Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Maple Citrus Glaze so memorable.

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 ½ lbs): Cubed for quick, even grilling and tender bites.
• Olive oil (3 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps the marinade coat every morsel perfectly.
• Fresh lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Brings zesty brightness that cuts through the richness.
• Orange juice (2 tablespoons): Offers a subtle citrus sweetness to complement the maple glaze.
• Pure maple syrup (1 tablespoon): Adds that sticky, caramelized finish with natural sweetness.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses savory depth and a touch of pungency.
• Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): The signature herb that makes it irresistibly Greek.
• Paprika (1 teaspoon): Provides a smoky, earthy undertone.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to elevate all the flavors.
• Wooden or metal skewers: For easy grilling and presentation.
• Optional garnish: fresh parsley and lemon wedges: To bring fresh, herbal brightness and extra zing at serving.

How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Maple Citrus Glaze

Step 1: Whisk the Marinade

Start by combining olive oil, lemon juice, orange juice, maple syrup, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Whisking them together creates a harmony of flavors that will deeply penetrate the chicken, infusing it with incredible brightness and sweetness.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add your cubed chicken breasts to the marinade, stirring well to make sure every piece is beautifully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. If you have extra time, let it rest up to two hours for a richer, more vibrant taste.

Step 3: Prepare Your Grill

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This temperature is key to getting that golden-brown, slightly charred exterior while keeping the chicken juicy inside. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water beforehand to prevent burning.

Step 4: Thread and Grill

Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto your skewers. Grill the souvlaki for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking and that beautiful caramelization. During the last minute, brush any remaining marinade over the chicken to create a glossy, irresistible glaze.

Step 5: Serve It Up

Once grilled to perfection, serve immediately while hot. The aroma alone is enough to make everyone’s mouth water!

How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Maple Citrus Glaze

Garnishes

Fresh parsley sprinkled over the top adds a burst of herbal color and freshness that brightens the dish. Lemon wedges on the side invite anyone to add an extra citrus kick, enhancing the glaze’s zesty notes even more.

Side Dishes

Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Maple Citrus Glaze pairs beautifully with classic Mediterranean sides like fluffy pita bread, creamy tzatziki sauce, or a crunchy Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta. For something heartier, consider roasted potatoes or a bed of fluffy couscous to soak up every bit of that delicious glaze.

Creative Ways to Present

You can elevate the experience by serving the skewers over a vibrant platter of grilled vegetables or nestled in warm pita pockets with fresh veggies and a dollop of tangy yogurt sauce. It also works wonderfully as a protein-packed topping for grain bowls or salad plates for a fresh, modern twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover grilled chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the chicken separate from garnishes and sides helps preserve its texture and flavor.

Freezing

If you want to make it ahead of time, you can freeze cooked souvlaki skewers wrapped tightly in foil or freezer-safe bags. They will keep perfectly for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if possible to maintain that lovely grilled texture. Brush with a little extra glaze or olive oil to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and a slightly richer flavor. Just adjust your grilling time accordingly since thighs can take a bit longer to cook through.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

The minimum is 30 minutes to let the flavors start soaking in, but for the best taste, marinate for up to 2 hours. Avoid going much longer than that to prevent the citrus from breaking down the chicken’s texture too much.

Do I need to soak wooden skewers?

Yes, soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling prevents them from burning or catching fire on the grill, making your cooking experience safer and more enjoyable.

What can I substitute for maple syrup if I don’t have any?

If you don’t have maple syrup, honey is a great substitute that will add a similar natural sweetness and help create that beautiful glaze during grilling.

Is this recipe suitable for outdoor grilling and indoor stovetop grilling?

Definitely! Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Maple Citrus Glaze cooks beautifully on a traditional outdoor grill or using a grill pan on your stovetop, making it versatile for any kitchen setup.

Final Thoughts

This Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Maple Citrus Glaze is one of those recipes that never gets old. It’s cheerful, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying—perfect for bringing a little sunshine into your kitchen any day of the week. I hope you enjoy the playful balance of sweet maple and citrus with those classic Greek herbs as much as I do. Trust me, once you try it, this is going to become a favorite you’ll want to make again and again!