You walk into your favorite Greek restaurant. The staff already knows your order, de souvlaki de poulet, of course. Juicy, grilled to perfection, and full of Mediterranean aroma. But the real excitement? It’s not just the skewers. It’s what’s next to them on the plate.
Will it be lemony roasted potatoes? Fluffy Greek rice? A crisp, refreshing salad? Warm pita with a side of creamy tzatziki?
If you’ve ever wondered what truly belongs on a chicken souvlaki plate or how to recreate that perfect combo at home, this blog breaks it down for you. From classic sides to essential sauces, here’s everything that pairs beautifully with this iconic Greek favorite.
The Essentials: Most Common Pairings
These sides and sauces are typically served with chicken souvlaki and are considered standard in every menu of traditional Greek restaurants.
1. Tzatziki Sauce
No Greek chicken souvlaki plate is complete without tzatziki. This creamy, tangy sauce is made from strained Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, fresh garlic, olive oil, and sometimes dill or lemon juice. It cools the palate and balances the charred, slightly smoky flavor of grilled chicken. It’s not just a dip, it’s essential for both flavor and authenticity.
2. Traditional Greek Salad or House Salad
The Greek salad is a fresh mix of chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese, often finished with oregano and a drizzle of olive oil. Some restaurants also serve a house version with added greens like romaine lettuce. The salad adds crunch, acidity, and a refreshing counterbalance to the heavier grilled meat and starches on the plate.
3. Greek Potatoes
These lemon-roasted potatoes are a Greek comfort food staple. They’re cooked in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, and garlic until golden on the outside and tender inside. They soak up flavor and serve as a warm, zesty side that complements the savory chicken perfectly. Their herby, tangy profile makes them one of the most popular pairings.
4. Greek Rice
Greek rice is typically fluffy, long-grain rice infused with lemon, olive oil, and subtle herbs like dill or parsley. Some versions may include onions or broth for added flavor. This rice is light but flavorful, and it acts as a great base to mix with chicken, sauces, and salad; all the elements on your plate come together over it.
5. Pita Bread
Soft, de pita chaude bread is always served with souvlaki, whether you’re ordering it as a plate or a wrap. It’s used to scoop up tzatziki, wrap around chicken, or enjoy with salad. Some versions are grilled for a bit of crunch on the edges, while others stay soft and fluffy. It’s not an extra; it’s a central part of the Greek dining experience.
Bonus Pairings That Elevate the Experience
These additions aren’t always on every plate, but if you’re looking to go beyond the basics, these sides take your chicken souvlaki meal to the next level.
1. Spanakopita
A flaky, golden pastry stuffed with spinach, feta cheese, onions, and herbs. Spanakopita is one of Greece’s most iconic baked dishes, and for good reason. The combination of crispy phyllo layers and creamy, savory filling makes it a perfect starter or a hearty add-on. It brings a buttery richness that balances well with grilled meats and fresh salads.
2. Tiropita
Similar to spanakopita, tiropita is made with layers of phyllo pastry, but instead of spinach, it’s filled entirely with cheese, usually a creamy, salty feta or a blend of Greek cheeses. It’s a must-try for cheese lovers and pairs beautifully with lemony sides and grilled chicken, offering a warm, melty contrast to the fresher elements on your plate.
3. Lemon Sauce
Light, tangy, and vibrant, lemon sauce is a flavor booster that can be drizzled over chicken, rice, or potatoes. It adds brightness without overpowering the dish, and it’s especially popular among those who like a citrus kick. It complements tzatziki but adds a completely different dimension, cleaner, zestier, and perfect for cutting through richer flavors.
What to Drink with Your Chicken Souvlaki
When it comes to beverages, pairing the right drink can make all the difference.
Sparkling Lemonade & Specialty Sodas
- Epsa Pink Lemonade (carbonated): Exceptionally popular at Souvlaki Authentique, this sweet-and-tart soda features a bright, fruity zing and refreshing bubbles, ideal for balancing grilled flavors and refreshing the palate.
- Epsa Lemon Soda: Tangy and effervescent with a clean citrus flavor, it delivers just the right twist alongside savory bites.
- Classic 7UP (with ice and lemon): A familiar, fizzy favorite that cuts through the richness of the meat with its crisp, citrus notes.
Create the Perfect Plate Combo
Building the ideal chicken souvlaki plate isn’t just about taste; it’s about balance. Whether you’re eating out or preparing your own spread at home, here’s how to make it feel truly Greek:
1. Start with the Protein
The hero of the plate is your grilled chicken souvlaki: tender, charred, and full of flavor. Make sure the portion is satisfying but not overwhelming.
2. Add the Staples
Complement your chicken with the five essentials:
- Pita Bread: Warm, fluffy, perfect for wrapping or dipping.
- Tzatziki Sauce: Cool, garlicky, creamy, adds contrast and depth.
- Greek Rice or Potatoes: Choose one or both for your carb base. Rice brings lemony softness, while potatoes offer a crispy, herb-seasoned edge.
- Fresh Salad: A classic Greek salad (or house version) brings crunch, acidity, and freshness to cleanse the palate.
3. Don’t Forget the Extras
To make your plate stand out, consider:
- Lemon Sauce for a tangy drizzle.
- Spanakopita or Tiropita for added richness and texture.
- A side of pickled vegetables or olives to enhance contrast.
4. Customize Like a Local
At restaurants like Souvlaki Authentique, customization is encouraged. Whether you want to go lighter (extra salad, no carbs), spicier (add hot sauce), or more indulgent (double meat, extra feta), there’s flexibility to make the dish truly yours.
Conclusion
Chicken souvlaki may be the star of the show, but what truly makes it memorable is everything that surrounds it—creamy tzatziki, roasted Greek potatoes, tangy salad, and warm, pillowy pita. Whether you’re craving a satisfying weeknight meal, planning a Greek-inspired dinner party, or simply want to order like a pro, the right pairings transform souvlaki into a complete, crave-worthy experience.
And if you want to skip the guesswork and enjoy the perfect plate? Visit Souvlaki Authentique at one of its many locations across Quebec. Their chicken souvlaki is grilled fresh, served with all the classic sides, and customizable to your exact taste.
