Greek Souvlaki Pita Recipe – Authentic Street Food at Home
Quick Answer
Souvlaki is grilled skewered meat (traditionally pork or chicken) marinated in olive oil, lemon, and oregano, served in a warm pita with tzatziki, tomatoes, and onions. This recipe takes 30 minutes active time plus 1-2 hours marinating.
By Sarah Mitchell • June 14, 2026
Herb-marinated grilled chicken skewers served in warm pita with tzatziki, tomatoes, and red onion.
About This Recipe
"Greek Souvlaki Pita Recipe – Authentic Street Food at Home" is a Dinner recipe that brings chicken breast, cubed, pita breads, Greek yogurt, cucumber, grated and tomatoes, diced together into a flavorful, well-balanced dish. Rated Easy and ready in about 52 minutes, this recipe fits easily into a busy schedule. It serves 4 and works equally well for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. The Greek inspiration behind this dish balances classic techniques with clean, vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
- 500 g chicken breast, cubed
- 4 pita breads
- 200 g Greek yogurt
- 1 cucumber, grated
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp dried oregano
Instructions
- 1
Marinate chicken in olive oil, oregano, lemon juice, and garlic for 30 min.
- 2
Thread onto skewers and grill 10-12 minutes, turning once.
- 3
Make tzatziki: mix yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, and dill.
- 4
Warm pitas, fill with chicken, tomato, onion, and generous tzatziki.
Expert Tips
For the best result, use the freshest, highest-quality ingredients you can find. Chicken breast, cubed is the heart of this dish, so choose it with care. Read the recipe through before you start and prep all ingredients in advance (mise en place) so the cooking process is smooth. Stovetop work especially well for this preparation. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and acid at the end to make the flavors pop.
What To Serve With This
"Greek Souvlaki Pita Recipe – Authentic Street Food at Home" is a versatile Dinner dish that pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, crusty bread or dinner rolls and classic Greek sides. Choose at least one fresh and one hearty side to create a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Greek Souvlaki Pita Recipe – Authentic Street Food at Home keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating to preserve texture. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the dish thickens in the fridge. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between souvlaki and gyros?
Souvlaki is cubed meat grilled on skewers, while gyros is meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie and shaved off in thin slices. Both are served in pita bread with similar toppings, but the cooking method and texture are different. Souvlaki has distinct charred, juicy pieces.
What is the best meat for souvlaki?
In Greece, pork shoulder is the most traditional choice. Chicken thighs are the second most popular. Both benefit from the olive oil, lemon, and oregano marinade. Use boneless cuts cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking on skewers.
What do you serve with souvlaki?
Traditional sides include tzatziki (yogurt-cucumber sauce), sliced tomatoes, red onions, and warm pita bread. Greek salad, roasted potatoes (lemon-oregano), and rice pilaf are also popular accompaniments.
Can I freeze souvlaki?
Yes — marinate the raw cubed meat, then freeze in the marinade for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then grill as normal. The marinade acts as a flavor boost and tenderizer during freezing.
Is there a vegetarian souvlaki option?
Yes — halloumi cheese or firm tofu cubes work beautifully on skewers with the same olive oil, lemon, and oregano marinade. Mushrooms and zucchini are also excellent grilled and served in pita with tzatziki.
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