Chicken Souvlaki with Feta and Herb Yogurt and Horiatiki

Chicken Souvlaki with Feta and Herb Yogurt and Horiatiki is a modern Greek-inspired dish that layers classic Mediterranean flavors. Souvlaki, meaning “small skewer” in Greek, traditionally consists of grilled meat—often pork or chicken—marinated in olive oil, lemon, garlic, and oregano. In this rendition, the chicken souvlaki is paired with a feta and herb yogurt, a creamy, tangy sauce that echoes tzatziki but substitutes feta for cucumber. The horiatiki (Greek village salad) provides a fresh, acidic counterpoint with ripe tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, and a slab of feta, dressed simply with olive oil and oregano. A great version is defined by properly charred, juicy chicken; a yogurt sauce that balances salty feta with bright herbs like dill and mint; and a salad that avoids sogginess by tossing ingredients just before serving. Regional variations abound: in northern Greece, souvlaki might be served with a mustard-based sauce, while in Athens it is often wrapped in warm pita with tomatoes and onions. This specific combination has been noted at Mesa in Nottingham, where it appears on the menu as a complete plate (cited by Only Scrans). The dish exemplifies how traditional elements—grilled meat, tangy dairy, and crisp vegetables—can be elevated through careful seasoning and fresh components, making it a staple of contemporary Greek tavernas worldwide.