Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Skewers with Homemade Tzatziki Sauce: Your Perfect Greek Dinner

Embrace the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with these irresistible Chicken Souvlaki Skewers, perfectly grilled and served alongside a cool, creamy homemade Tzatziki sauce. This classic Greek dish brings together tender, marinated chicken pieces, skewered and cooked to juicy perfection, making it an ideal choice for a delicious and healthy weeknight meal or a festive summer barbecue. The simple yet potent marinade infuses the chicken with aromatic herbs and tangy lemon, while the refreshing Tzatziki sauce offers a delightful contrast, creating a balanced and unforgettable culinary experience.

Grilling and summer are a match made in heaven, and there’s something uniquely satisfying about preparing food outdoors. Whether you’re crafting an Herb Grilled Pork Tenderloin bursting with fresh summer herbs or these fantastic Greek chicken skewers, the grill adds an incomparable smoky depth of flavor. I’m always drawn to the magic of Greek cuisine, and my love for Tzatziki sauce runs deep – its cool, garlicky, cucumber notes are simply addictive!

Chicken souvlaki with tzatziki sauce served with greek salad

As soon as the weather warms up, my instinct is to fire up the grill and whip up dinner. There’s an undeniable joy in serving food on a stick – it instantly makes any meal feel more fun and interactive! These Grilled Sausage Kebabs are another favorite in my household, always a surefire hit. But for a truly refreshing and flavorful option, these chicken souvlaki skewers consistently win rave reviews.

What is Souvlaki? Unpacking this Greek Delight

Souvlaki is a beloved Greek fast food, iconic for its simplicity and incredible flavor. The name “souvlaki” literally translates to “skewer,” referring to small, tender pieces of meat (typically pork, chicken, or lamb) that are marinated, skewered, and then grilled or broiled. It’s usually served hot, often enjoyed straight off the skewer or nestled in warm pita bread with various toppings. In this recipe, we focus on chicken souvlaki, featuring perfectly marinated chicken pieces paired with a quick and utterly refreshing homemade Tzatziki sauce.

While souvlaki can indeed be made with pork or lamb, chicken souvlaki holds a special place in my heart. Chicken breast or thigh meat readily absorbs the vibrant flavors of the Greek marinade, resulting in incredibly succulent and fragrant bites. It’s wonderfully light and fresh, making it an ideal meal for warmer weather, packed with protein and bursting with zesty, herbaceous notes.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Incredibly Flavorful: The lemon-oregano marinade gives the chicken an authentic, zesty Greek taste that’s hard to beat.
Simple & Quick: With just 30 minutes of marinating time and minimal cooking, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthy & Lean: Chicken souvlaki is a lean protein source, and when paired with refreshing Tzatziki, it makes for a balanced meal.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a standalone dish, in pita bread, with salads, or alongside your favorite Mediterranean sides.
Homemade Tzatziki: Learn to make this classic dipping sauce from scratch – it’s surprisingly easy and far superior to store-bought versions.

Gather Your Ingredients: What You’ll Need

Be sure to scroll to the bottom of the post for the FULL PRINTABLE recipe card, including exact measurements and detailed instructions.

For the Chicken Souvlaki Skewers:

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for their lean texture and ability to absorb marinade. You can also use chicken thighs for a slightly richer, juicier result. Cut them into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil forms the base of the marinade, tenderizing the chicken and carrying the flavors.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is crucial for that bright, tangy Greek flavor. It also helps to tenderize the chicken. Avoid bottled lemon juice if possible, as the flavor difference is significant.
Dried Oregano: The quintessential Greek herb, oregano adds an earthy, slightly peppery warmth to the chicken.
Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the other flavors.
Garlic: Freshly minced or grated garlic provides a pungent, aromatic foundation for the marinade.

For the Creamy Tzatziki Sauce:

Plain Greek Yogurt: Full-fat Greek yogurt is recommended for the creamiest, richest Tzatziki, but low-fat versions work too. Its tanginess is key.
Lemon Juice: A touch more fresh lemon juice brightens the sauce.
Cucumber: Peeled, seeded, and finely shredded cucumber provides the signature refreshing element. Draining excess liquid is vital for a thick sauce.
Salt: To season the Tzatziki and draw out moisture from the cucumber.
Fresh Dill: Fresh dill is the herb of choice for Tzatziki, adding a distinct, aromatic, and slightly sweet flavor.
Garlic: Another essential for Tzatziki, fresh garlic clove (grated or minced) gives the sauce its characteristic bite.

Chicken Souvlaki skewers on a white plate with homemade tzatziki sauce

How to Make Delicious Chicken Souvlaki and Tzatziki

Creating these flavorful Greek chicken skewers and the accompanying Tzatziki sauce is a straightforward process, divided into just a few simple steps. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can bring this impressive meal to your table.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Marinade. In a medium mixing bowl or a large resealable plastic bag, combine the lemon juice, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and minced garlic. Whisk or shake until well combined. Add your cubed chicken breast (or thighs) to the marinade. Ensure all pieces are thoroughly coated by squishing the bag or stirring the bowl. Place the chicken in the fridge to marinate for at least 30 minutes. While 30 minutes is sufficient for flavor, you can marinate for up to 2 hours for deeper infusion; however, do not exceed this timeframe due to the acidity of the lemon juice, which can start to break down the chicken’s texture.
Step 2: Make the Refreshing Tzatziki Sauce. Begin by preparing your cucumber: peel it, then halve it lengthwise and scoop out the seeds using a spoon. Grate the cucumber into a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible – this step is crucial for a thick, non-watery Tzatziki. Transfer the drained cucumber to a bowl. Mix in the plain Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, grated garlic, chopped fresh dill, and salt. Stir everything together until well combined and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Cover the Tzatziki and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve dinner. The beauty of Tzatziki is that it can be made ahead of time; it will keep well in the fridge for a couple of days, and the flavors will deepen as it chills.
Step 3: Grill the Marinated Chicken. Once the chicken has finished marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 20-30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, ensuring they are evenly spaced for consistent cooking. Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Grill for about 6-8 minutes per side, rotating occasionally, until the chicken is beautifully browned, slightly charred, and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy! Carefully remove the cooked chicken souvlaki skewers from the grill. Serve them immediately, either directly off the skewers or by sliding the chicken into warm pita bread, alongside a generous dollop of your homemade Tzatziki dipping sauce. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley if desired, and enjoy this delightful Greek feast!

Greek chicken skewers with tzatziki sauce and greek salad

Expert Recipe Tips & Tricks for the Best Souvlaki

Achieving perfectly grilled, tender chicken souvlaki is easier with a few insider tips:

Don’t Forget to Soak Wooden Skewers! If you’re using bamboo or wooden skewers, it’s absolutely crucial to soak them in water for at least 20-30 minutes before threading the chicken. This prevents them from catching fire and burning on the hot grill. You can easily let them soak in a 13×9 inch baking pan while your chicken marinates in the fridge.
No Grill? No Problem! Don’t worry if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill. You can still make fantastic chicken souvlaki indoors.
- Oven Broiler Method: Arrange the skewered chicken on a baking sheet lined with foil (for easy cleanup) and broil for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and nicely charred. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
- Stovetop Skillet Method: Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat with a little olive oil. Cook the skewers for 4-6 minutes per side, turning until browned and cooked through.
Always Use Fresh Lemon Juice. Take that extra minute to squeeze juice from a fresh lemon. The vibrant, authentic flavor it provides is far superior to any bottled alternative and will truly elevate the taste of your chicken.
Mind the Marinating Time. While marinating is key for flavor, be cautious not to marinate the chicken for too long. Because of the significant amount of lemon juice in the marinade, leaving the chicken for more than 2-3 hours can cause the meat to break down, resulting in a slightly mushy or unpleasant texture. Stick to the recommended 30 minutes to 2 hours for optimal results.
Cut Chicken Evenly: For consistent cooking, ensure all chicken pieces are cut into roughly the same 1-inch size. This prevents some pieces from drying out while others are still cooking.
Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Give your skewers enough space on the grill for even cooking and proper browning. Overcrowding can lower the grill temperature and steam the chicken instead of searing it.

What Goes With Chicken Souvlaki? Perfect Pairings

This versatile grilled chicken dish pairs beautifully with a wide array of side dishes, making it easy to create a complete and satisfying meal. Light and fluffy Homemade Pitas or Naan bread are fantastic for wrapping the chicken and, of course, for dipping into any extra Tzatziki sauce!

Consider these complementary sides:

Greek Salad: A classic pairing with crisp lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.
Greek Pasta Salad: A heartier option, combining pasta with fresh Mediterranean vegetables and a tangy dressing.
Grilled Zucchini: Simple grilled vegetables offer a light and healthy accompaniment.
Tomato Mozzarella Salad: A fresh caprese-style salad with ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil.
Lemon Herb Rice: A fragrant rice pilaf infused with lemon and herbs.
Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes, perhaps with a touch of oregano, make a satisfying side.

Storing and Reheating Leftover Chicken Souvlaki

Should you have any delicious leftovers, store the cooked chicken souvlaki in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The homemade Tzatziki sauce can be stored separately in a covered container in the fridge for up to a week. To reheat the chicken, you can quickly warm it in the microwave or, for best results, gently heat it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, being careful not to overcook and dry it out. This ensures your next meal is just as enjoyable as the first!

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Souvlaki

Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

You can cut the chicken into cubes and prepare the marinade a day in advance, storing the marinade ingredients separately. However, only combine the chicken with the lemon-based marinade 30 minutes to 2 hours before grilling to prevent the acid from affecting the chicken’s texture.

Can I freeze chicken souvlaki?

While you can freeze cooked chicken souvlaki for up to 2-3 months, the texture might change slightly upon reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh. The Tzatziki sauce does not freeze well due to the cucumber and yogurt components.

What type of skewers are best?

Metal skewers are reusable and don’t require soaking. If using wooden or bamboo skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before use to prevent burning.

How can I make my Tzatziki thicker?

The key to thick Tzatziki is thoroughly draining the shredded cucumber. Squeeze out as much excess liquid as possible using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Using full-fat Greek yogurt also contributes to a thicker consistency.

More Easy & Delicious Chicken Dinner Recipes

If you’re looking for more fantastic chicken meal ideas, explore these other delightful recipes:

Chicken Chilaquiles
Barbecue Chicken Nachos
Curry Chicken Salad
Chick-fil-A Grilled Nuggets (Copycat)
Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas

Chicken Souvlaki Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce

By
Erin Sellin

Tender pieces of Greek chicken are marinated in lemon and oregano, then grilled to perfection. Served with a cool, creamy homemade Tzatziki dipping sauce, this makes for a fantastic and flavorful weeknight dinner.

Prep:

10 minutes

Cook:

15 minutes

Total:

25 minutes

Servings:
4

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Ingredients

Chicken Skewers

3 Tablespoons lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
2 teaspoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 garlic cloves, grated or minced
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes

Tzatziki Sauce:

1/2 cup cucumber, peeled, seeded, shredded, and well-drained
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 Tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 garlic clove, grated or minced
1/4 teaspoon fresh dill, finely chopped

Instructions

In a resealable plastic bag or mixing bowl, combine 3 Tablespoons lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, 2 teaspoons olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 4 grated garlic cloves. Add the 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and toss/squish to ensure the chicken is well coated. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
While the chicken marinates, prepare the Tzatziki sauce. Peel, seed, and shred 1/2 cup cucumber. Place the shredded cucumber in a clean dish towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much excess liquid as possible. In a separate bowl, stir together the drained cucumber with 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1 Tablespoon lemon juice, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1 grated garlic clove, and 1/4 teaspoon fresh dill. Mix well. Cover and set aside in the fridge until ready to serve.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, ensure they have been soaked in water. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
Grill the chicken skewers for 6-8 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown, slightly charred, and fully cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Remove from the grill and serve immediately with the prepared Tzatziki sauce. Enjoy!

Notes

This recipe is slightly adapted from Cooking Light.

Nutrition

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Author:
Erin Sellin

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cook Time:

15 minutes

Total Time:

25 minutes

Course:
Dinner Recipes

Cuisine:
Mediterranean, Greek

Servings:
4

Calories:
233

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