Chicken Souvlaki

Souvlaki — the beloved Greek street food — is the perfect example of how simple, whole ingredients can create something unforgettable. Traditionally made with marinated meat grilled on skewers, souvlaki is easy to adapt for a health-conscious, anti-inflammatory lifestyle without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

This version uses your choice of lean turkey, chicken, or even tofu, making it perfect for a high-protein meal that suits both omnivores and plant-based eaters. The marinade is where the magic begins: extra virgin olive oil, lemon zest and juice, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, and Himalayan salt work together to infuse the protein with bright, zesty Mediterranean flavors.

We pair the protein with vibrant seasonal vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, yellow squash, mushrooms, and juicy tomatoes — each adding texture, nutrients, and color to the skewers. After marinating the protein for 12–24 hours, simply assemble your skewers and grill at 400°F for 10 minutes, or roast them at 400°F for about 30 minutes in the oven, until the edges are slightly charred and everything is cooked through.

Souvlaki is best served with traditional Greek sides: a crisp Greek salad, a scoop of brown rice for fiber-rich carbs, and creamy dairy-free tzatziki for that cool, tangy finish.

This is more than just a meal — it's a fresh, vibrant, protein-packed celebration of Mediterranean goodness, ready for your next nourishing lunch, backyard gathering, or family-style dinner.

RECIPE

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs turkey, chicken, or tofu, cut into 1-inch cubes

For the Marinade:

• ½ cup olive oil

• 1 tsp lemon zest

• 2 Tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 Tbsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp sweet paprika

• 1 tsp pink Himalayan salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

Vegetables (cut into similar-sized pieces):

• Asian eggplant or regular eggplant

• Yellow squash

• Zucchini

• Cherry or Campari tomatoes

• Orange bell peppers

• Mushrooms

Preparation

1. Cut your protein of choice (turkey, chicken, or tofu) into 1-inch cubes.

2. Prepare the marinade by whisking together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Marinate the protein in the mixture for 12–24 hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.

4. Prep your vegetables and soak wooden skewers in water if using them (to prevent burning).

5. Assemble the skewers, alternating marinated protein with vegetables for a colorful, balanced look.

6. Grill or bake the skewers at 400°F for about 30 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender, turning once halfway through for even cooking.

7. Serve hot with a Greek salad, brown rice, and a dollop of tzatziki (dairy-free if desired).

As usual, these are my thoughts and ideas, not medical advice. You are encouraged to create your own recipes or search for some suited to your needs. I am just sharing my recipes, hoping that I can inspire some of you to make healthier food choices.

Please remember that we all have different nutritional needs and that food affects us differently. If you are not sure which foods are best for you, reach out for a free phone consultation. 

In good health,

Ioana