Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Maple Dijon Glaze Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a dish that balances fresh, vibrant flavors with a touch of sweet and tangy magic, then you absolutely need to try this Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Maple Dijon Glaze. This recipe combines tender, juicy chicken cubes marinated in Mediterranean herbs with a stunning glaze made from a playful mix of maple syrup and mustard that elevates the classic souvlaki into something truly special. It’s easy to prepare, packed with bold flavors, and perfect whether you’re grilling for a casual weeknight dinner or impressing guests at your next get-together.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are delightfully simple but critical to creating the authentic taste and irresistible texture of this dish. Each element plays a unique role, from the zesty lemon juice brightening the chicken to the aromatic oregano bringing in classic Greek charm.

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Using chicken breasts cut into 1-inch cubes ensures quick, even cooking and juicy bites.
• Olive oil: Adds richness and helps in tenderizing the chicken while grilling.
• Lemon juice: Offers a fresh, tangy punch that brightens up every bite.
• Garlic, minced: Infuses the chicken with a warm, savory depth.
• Dried oregano: This classic Greek herb gives that unmistakable Mediterranean aroma and flavor.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance and balance all the ingredients.
• Dijon mustard: Forms the tangy base of the maple Dijon glaze, giving it a subtle sharpness.
• Pure maple syrup: Adds a natural sweetness that perfectly counteracts the mustard’s bite.
• Apple cider vinegar: Provides a mild acidity to round out the glaze beautifully.
• Wooden or metal skewers: Key for threading the chicken cubes for grilling—soak wooden skewers beforehand to avoid burning.

How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Maple Dijon Glaze

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin by combining olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. This marinade is the heart of your Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Maple Dijon Glaze, soaking the chicken pieces with bright, herby flavors while tenderizing the meat. Toss the 1-inch chicken cubes thoroughly in this mixture, ensuring every piece is well coated, then let it sit for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, extending the marination up to 2 hours will deepen the flavors even more.

Step 2: Prepare Your Grill

While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. A properly heated grill is crucial to getting that perfect char and locking in the juicy goodness. If using wooden skewers, make sure they’ve been soaking in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent any flare-ups while cooking.

Step 3: Thread the Chicken onto Skewers

Once marinated, carefully thread the chicken cubes onto your skewers. Leaving a small space between pieces will ensure they cook evenly and get that lovely grilled texture without steaming.

Step 4: Make the Maple Dijon Glaze

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, pure maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil. This maple Dijon glaze is the signature twist that sets this recipe apart. The balance of sweet and tangy will bring your Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Maple Dijon Glaze to another level of deliciousness, perfect for brushing during the final stages of grilling.

Step 5: Grill and Glaze the Chicken

Grill the chicken skewers for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning them occasionally so they cook evenly and develop a golden-brown exterior. During the last few minutes, generously brush the maple Dijon glaze onto the skewers, allowing it to caramelize slightly and create a glossy, mouthwatering finish.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked through and beautifully glazed, your Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Maple Dijon Glaze is ready to serve. The flavors will be a perfect harmony of the Mediterranean and subtle sweet notes, guaranteeing this dish will quickly become a favorite.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Maple Dijon Glaze

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or oregano can add a pop of green and fresh aroma right before serving. A wedge of lemon on the side is also fantastic for guests who want an extra burst of citrus to complement the savory-sweet glaze.

Side Dishes

This Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Maple Dijon Glaze shines when paired with warm pita bread, a cool Greek salad featuring cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta, or a side of herb-infused rice. These sides help balance the sweetness of the glaze and add textural variety to the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the chicken skewers over a bed of creamy tzatziki sauce for dipping or wrap them up in pita with fresh veggies for a handheld souvlaki wrap. You can also slice the chicken off the skewers and toss it in a grain bowl with quinoa, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of extra glaze for a fresh, wholesome meal.

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. Just make sure to cool the skewers completely before storing to preserve their texture.

Freezing

If you want to freeze the cooked chicken, remove it from the skewers and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Alternatively, use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and richness. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces and adjust grilling time as needed since thighs can take a bit longer to cook through.

Do I need to soak wooden skewers before grilling?

Yes, soaking wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes prevents them from burning or charring while grilling, making your cooking process smoother and safer.

Can I make the maple Dijon glaze ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare the glaze a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Give it a good whisk before brushing it on the chicken to recombine any separated ingredients.

Is this recipe suitable for outdoor grilling only?

Not at all! While outdoor grills add fantastic flavor, using an indoor grill pan or broiler works perfectly well for making the Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Maple Dijon Glaze anytime of year.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your Dijon mustard does not contain gluten. Always check labels to be safe if you’re serving someone with gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Maple Dijon Glaze enough. The combination of fresh herbs, bright lemon, and that luscious maple-Dijon glaze really brings something special to the table. Whether you’re a long-time souvlaki fan or just discovering it, this recipe is guaranteed to delight your taste buds and make your next meal one to remember. Give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!