Garlicky Chicken or Pork Souvlaki

Infused with bold Mediterranean flavors, this Garlicky Chicken or Pork Souvlaki recipe is a vibrant twist on a Greek classic that’s perfect for grilling season. Juicy, bite-sized chunks of chicken breast or pork tenderloin are marinated in a zesty mixture of fresh garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, and cumin, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Threaded onto skewers alongside sweet red onion and optional bell peppers, these skewers are charred to smoky perfection in just 12 minutes. Ideal for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners, this quick and easy souvlaki pairs beautifully with warm pita, creamy tzatziki sauce, and a crisp Greek salad. Simple, wholesome, and unmistakably delicious, this dish brings the taste of the Mediterranean straight to your table.

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:12 mins

Total Time:32 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 grams Chicken breast or pork tenderloin
• 4 cloves Garlic cloves
• 60 ml Lemon juice
• 75 ml Olive oil
• 2 teaspoons Dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
• 1.5 teaspoons Salt
• 0.5 teaspoons Black pepper
• 1 Red onion
• 1 Bell pepper (optional)
• 6 Wooden or metal skewers

Directions

Step 1

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.

Step 2

Cut the chicken breast or pork tenderloin into bite-sized chunks, approximately 2.5 cm (1 inch) pieces. Set aside.

Step 3

Mince the garlic cloves and add them to a large mixing bowl.

Step 4

To the bowl, add lemon juice, olive oil, dried oregano, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Whisk to combine the marinade thoroughly.

Step 5

Add the cubed chicken or pork into the marinade, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 3-4 hours for maximum flavor.

Step 6

Peel and cut the red onion into similar-sized chunks as the meat. If using a bell pepper, seed and cut it into chunks as well.

Step 7

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.

Step 8

Thread the marinated meat onto the skewers, alternating with chunks of onion and bell pepper for added flavor and presentation.

Step 9

Grill the skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes to ensure even cooking, until the meat is cooked through and slightly charred on the edges. The internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F) for chicken or 63°C (145°F) for pork with a 3-minute rest.

Step 10

Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Step 11

Serve the souvlaki hot with warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	922.9 grams (922.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1606

Total Fat 90.30g	116%
Saturated Fat 16.10g	81%
Polyunsaturated Fat 6.70g
Cholesterol 425mg	142%
Sodium 3929mg	171%
Total Carbohydrate 31.90g	12%
Dietary Fiber 6.50g	23%
Total Sugars 12.60g
Protein 159.50g	319%

Vitamin D 65IU	325%
Calcium 172mg	13%
Iron 8mg	47%
Potassium 1909mg	41%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 51.5%

Protein: 40.4%

Carbs: 8.1%