📝 About This Recipe
Transport your senses to the bustling streets of Athens with this quintessential Greek fast-food classic. Tender chunks of chicken are marinated in a bright, herbaceous blend of lemon and oregano, then seared to smoky perfection and tucked into warm, pillowy pita bread. Topped with cool, garlicky tzatziki and crisp vegetables, it’s a harmonious balance of hot and cold, charred and fresh.
🥗 Ingredients
The Chicken & Marinade
- 1.5 lbs Chicken Thighs (boneless, skinless, cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1/4 cups Extra Virgin Olive Oil (high quality Greek oil preferred)
- 1 large Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed)
- 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon Dried Oregano (Greek variety if possible)
- 1 teaspoon Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)
The Homemade Tzatziki
- 1 cup Greek Yogurt (full fat for best texture)
- 1/2 piece English Cucumber (grated and squeezed dry)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Dill (finely chopped)
- 1 clove Garlic (grated into a paste)
Assembly & Garnish
- 4 pieces Pita Bread (thick, Greek-style pocketless)
- 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (halved)
- 1/2 small Red Onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 cup French Fries (cooked, for authentic street style)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (chopped for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
In a large glass bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
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2
Add the cubed chicken thighs to the bowl, tossing thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though 2 hours is ideal for maximum flavor penetration.
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3
While the chicken marinates, prepare the tzatziki. Grate the cucumber and use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to squeeze out as much liquid as possible; this prevents a watery sauce.
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4
In a medium bowl, combine the squeezed cucumber, Greek yogurt, grated garlic, and fresh dill. Stir well, season with a pinch of salt, and set aside in the fridge.
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5
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken pieces tightly onto the skewers.
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6
Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates.
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7
Place the chicken skewers on the grill. Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is charred on the edges and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
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8
During the last 2 minutes of grilling, place the pita breads directly on the grill for 30 seconds per side until warm and pliable.
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9
Remove the chicken from the skewers and let it rest on a plate for 3 minutes to keep the juices inside.
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10
To assemble, spread a generous dollop of tzatziki down the center of each warm pita.
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11
Layer on the grilled chicken, followed by tomatoes, red onions, and a handful of hot French fries for that authentic 'Souvlaki Wrap' experience.
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12
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and an extra pinch of oregano. Fold the pita tightly and wrap the bottom in parchment paper or foil to serve.
💡 Chef's Tips
Use chicken thighs instead of breasts; they stay much juicier under high grill heat. Don't skip squeezing the cucumber—it's the secret to a thick, creamy tzatziki that won't make your pita soggy. For an extra flavor punch, sprinkle a little paprika on the chicken right before it comes off the grill. If you don't have a grill, a cast-iron skillet works beautifully to get that essential dark sear. Marinate the chicken for no longer than 4 hours, as the lemon juice can eventually start to 'cook' and toughen the meat texture.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side of lemon-oregano roasted potatoes. Pair with a crisp, cold Assyrtiko white wine or a light lager. Offer a side of Kalamata olives and feta cheese for extra saltiness. A simple Greek salad (Horiatiki) makes for a refreshing accompaniment. Provide extra lemon wedges for those who love an acidic brightness.