Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Skewers with Authentic Tzatziki Sauce: Your Perfect Greek Weeknight Dinner
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Greece with these tender Chicken Souvlaki Skewers. Marinated to perfection and grilled until beautifully caramelized, they’re served with a creamy, refreshing homemade Tzatziki dipping sauce. An ideal recipe for a quick and delicious weeknight meal or a festive summer gathering.
There’s an undeniable magic that happens when the weather warms up and the grill fires to life. The aroma of sizzling food fills the air, promising delicious meals and memorable moments. While there are countless grilling possibilities, from an Herb Grilled Pork Tenderloin bursting with fresh summer herbs, to hearty Grilled Sausage Kebabs, nothing quite captures the essence of a light, flavorful summer dinner like Greek chicken souvlaki. I’m utterly captivated by Greek cuisine, and the cool, tangy creaminess of tzatziki sauce holds a special place in my heart. These chicken skewers are not just a meal; they’re an experience, transporting your taste buds straight to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean.
The simplicity of cooking on a stick combined with the incredible flavor profile makes souvlaki an absolute winner. It’s a fun, interactive way to enjoy your dinner, perfect for families or entertaining guests. This recipe focuses on creating the most tender, flavorful chicken, thanks to a simple yet powerful Greek marinade, perfectly complemented by a quick, cooling, and incredibly refreshing homemade tzatziki sauce. Forget dry, bland chicken – these skewers promise succulent, juicy bites every single time.
What is Souvlaki? A Culinary Journey
Souvlaki is more than just grilled meat on a skewer; it’s a cornerstone of Greek fast food, beloved across the globe. The name “souvlaki” itself comes from the medieval Greek word ‘souvla’, meaning ‘skewer’, highlighting its core characteristic. Traditionally, it consists of small, tender pieces of meat – often pork, lamb, or chicken – that are marinated, threaded onto a skewer, and then grilled. It’s typically served hot, enjoyed straight off the skewer, often wrapped in pita bread with fresh vegetables and, of course, a generous dollop of tzatziki.
While various meats can be used, chicken souvlaki stands out as a particularly popular and lighter option, especially for warmer weather. The chicken breast, when properly marinated, absorbs the bright, aromatic flavors beautifully, resulting in a dish that feels both satisfying and incredibly fresh. In this recipe, we pair the marinated and grilled chicken with our quick homemade tzatziki sauce, which adds a refreshing, creamy counterpoint to the smoky, savory chicken.
What You’ll Need: Key Ingredients for Greek Perfection
Crafting the perfect chicken souvlaki and its accompanying tzatziki sauce requires just a handful of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building that authentic Greek flavor profile we all love. From the tangy lemon in the marinade to the refreshing cucumber in the sauce, every ingredient contributes to the overall deliciousness. Be sure to scroll to the bottom of the post for the FULL PRINTABLE recipe card with exact measurements.
For the Chicken Souvlaki:
- 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 uniform 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
- Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil is essential, providing richness and helping to tenderize the chicken while keeping it moist on the grill.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is paramount. It tenderizes the chicken, brightens the flavors, and is a hallmark of Greek cooking. Avoid bottled lemon juice if possible, as the flavor difference is significant.
- Dried Oregano: This herb is quintessential to Greek cuisine, imparting an earthy, aromatic depth to the chicken.
- Salt & Garlic: Basic seasonings that enhance all the other flavors. Freshly minced garlic adds a pungent, savory kick that is non-negotiable for authentic taste.
For the Tzatziki Dipping Sauce:
- Plain Greek Yogurt: The base of our creamy tzatziki. Opt for full-fat plain Greek yogurt for the richest, most authentic texture and flavor.
- Lemon Juice: A touch of fresh lemon juice adds a bright, tangy lift to the sauce, balancing the richness of the yogurt and cucumber.
- Cucumber: The star of tzatziki! Peeled, seeded, and shredded cucumber provides a refreshing crunch and cooling element. Draining it thoroughly is crucial to prevent a watery sauce.
- Salt & Fresh Dill: Salt brings out the flavors, and fresh dill adds that distinctive, aromatic herby note that makes tzatziki so irresistible.
- Garlic: A single clove of grated or minced fresh garlic gives the tzatziki its characteristic pungent kick.
How to Make Chicken Souvlaki: A Simple Guide
Creating these flavorful Greek chicken skewers is surprisingly straightforward. The key lies in a good marinade and proper grilling technique. Follow these steps for tender, juicy souvlaki every time, paired with a vibrant, homemade tzatziki that will impress everyone at your table.
- Prepare the Marinade for Maximum Flavor: In a mixing bowl or a large, sturdy zip-top plastic bag, combine the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and minced garlic. This aromatic blend is what gives the chicken its signature Greek flavor. Add your cubed chicken pieces to this marinade. Ensure the chicken is thoroughly coated by squishing everything together. The acid from the lemon juice not only infuses flavor but also helps to tenderize the chicken, while the oil keeps it moist. Place it in the fridge for a minimum of 30 minutes, but no longer than 2 hours to avoid the lemon juice from breaking down the chicken too much.
- Whip Up the Refreshing Tzatziki Sauce: Start by preparing your cucumber. Peel it, slice it lengthwise, and use a spoon to scoop out the seeds – this prevents the sauce from becoming watery. Then, shred the cucumber using a box grater or food processor. Place the shredded cucumber in a clean dish towel or a few layers of paper towels and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step is crucial for a thick, creamy tzatziki. Transfer the drained cucumber to a bowl and mix it with the plain Greek yogurt, a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, fresh dill, and a pinch of salt. Stir until everything is well combined. Cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve dinner. The tzatziki can be made several hours or even a day ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Grill the Chicken to Perfection: Once your chicken has marinated and your tzatziki is chilling, it’s time to grill. Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning. Carefully thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, making sure not to overcrowd them so they cook evenly. Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Grill for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is beautifully browned and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165ºF (74ºC) for safe consumption.
- Serve Immediately and Savor: Once the chicken skewers are perfectly grilled, remove them from the heat. Arrange them on a platter and serve them hot, alongside your homemade tzatziki sauce for dipping. This dish is fantastic on its own or paired with a variety of Greek-inspired sides. Enjoy the succulent chicken and the cool, tangy sauce!
Recipe Tips & Tricks for Perfect Souvlaki Every Time
Achieving restaurant-quality chicken souvlaki at home is easier than you think with a few simple tips and tricks:
- Soak Your Skewers: This is a crucial step if you’re using wooden skewers. Submerge them completely in water for at least 30 minutes (or even longer) before threading your chicken. This prevents them from charring or catching fire on the hot grill, ensuring your chicken cooks evenly without interruptions. You can easily let them soak in a 13×9 inch baking pan while your chicken is marinating.
- No Grill? No Problem!: Don’t despair if you don’t have an outdoor grill or if the weather isn’t cooperating. You can still enjoy delicious chicken souvlaki.
- Broiler Method: Arrange the skewers on a baking sheet and cook them under a preheated broiler in your oven for about 5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and nicely browned. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
- Stovetop Skillet: Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over high heat with a touch of olive oil. Cook the skewers for 3-4 minutes per side, rotating until all sides are golden brown and the chicken is cooked through.
- Always Use Fresh Lemon Juice: This can’t be stressed enough! The bright, vibrant flavor of fresh-squeezed lemon juice is unparalleled and truly makes a difference in both the chicken marinade and the tzatziki sauce. Bottled lemon juice often has a duller, sometimes metallic taste that won’t give you the authentic Greek flavor you’re after. Take the extra minute to squeeze a fresh lemon – your taste buds will thank you.
- Mind the Marination Time: While marinades are great for flavor and tenderization, there’s a limit, especially when citrus is involved. Because of the acidity from the lemon juice, this isn’t a marinade you want your chicken sitting in all day. Marinating for 30 minutes to 2 hours is ideal. If left too long (e.g., overnight), the acid can start to “cook” the chicken, breaking down its proteins too much and resulting in a mushy or strangely textured chicken.
- Uniform Chicken Pieces: Cut your chicken into roughly 1-inch cubes. This ensures that all pieces cook at the same rate, preventing some from being overcooked while others are still raw.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Place skewers on the grill with enough space between them for air to circulate. Overcrowding will lower the grill temperature and steam the chicken instead of searing it, leading to less appealing results.
What Goes With Chicken Souvlaki? Perfect Pairings
Chicken Souvlaki is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a wide array of side dishes. The fresh, tangy flavors of the chicken and tzatziki complement both light and hearty accompaniments. Here are some fantastic suggestions to complete your Greek-inspired meal:
- Pita Bread or Naan: Warm, fluffy Homemade Pitas or Naan bread are absolute essentials. They’re perfect for wrapping around the chicken and dipping into any extra tzatziki sauce.
- Greek Salad: A classic pairing! A vibrant Greek salad with crisp lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, olives, and feta cheese drizzled with a simple vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint.
- Greek Pasta Salad: For a heartier side, a pasta salad with Mediterranean flavors like bell peppers, olives, feta, and a lemon-herb dressing is a great choice.
- Grilled Zucchini: Continue the grilling theme with some perfectly charred zucchini slices, seasoned simply with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Tomato Mozzarella Salad: A fresh and simple Caprese-style salad with ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and balsamic glaze would be a delightful addition.
- Rice Pilaf: A light and fluffy rice pilaf, perhaps with some herbs or a squeeze of lemon, can serve as a comforting base for the skewers.
Storing and Reheating Leftover Chicken Souvlaki
If you’re lucky enough to have any leftovers, they can be enjoyed for a few days after cooking. Proper storage is key to maintaining freshness and flavor. Store leftover chicken souvlaki in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The tzatziki sauce, stored separately in its own covered container, will last a bit longer, up to a week in the refrigerator.
To reheat the chicken, you have a couple of options: for a quick warm-up, you can microwave the chicken pieces until heated through. For best results, especially if you prefer a slightly crispy exterior, reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat with a tiny bit of olive oil until it’s warmed through. Be careful not to overcook, as this can dry out the chicken. Serve reheated chicken with fresh tzatziki for optimal enjoyment.
More Easy Chicken Dinner Recipes to Enjoy
If you loved the simplicity and flavor of these chicken souvlaki skewers, you’re in for a treat! Chicken is a versatile protein that can be transformed into countless delicious and easy weeknight meals. Explore some of our other favorite chicken dinner 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
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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 minced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1 inch cubes
Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1/2 cup cucumber, peeled, seeded, shredded, and 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
Instructions
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To prepare the marinade, combine lemon juice, oregano, olive oil, salt, and minced garlic in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Add the cubed chicken breast, seal the bag (or cover the dish), and gently massage to ensure the chicken is fully coated. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate and the chicken to tenderize. Do not marinate for more than 2 hours.3 Tablespoons lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, 2 teaspoons olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 4 garlic cloves, 1 pound boneless
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While the chicken marinates, prepare the homemade tzatziki sauce. Peel and seed the cucumber, then shred it finely. Place the shredded cucumber in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out all excess liquid. In a medium bowl, combine the drained shredded cucumber with plain Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, salt, minced garlic, and fresh dill. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Cover and refrigerate until you are ready to serve.1/2 cup cucumber, 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1 Tablespoon lemon juice, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1 garlic clove, 1/4 teaspoon fresh dill
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Preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, ensure they have been soaked in water for at least 30 minutes. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
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Place the chicken skewers on the preheated grill. Grill for approximately 6-8 minutes per side, rotating frequently, until the chicken is beautifully browned, slightly charred in spots, and thoroughly cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165ºF (74ºC).
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Carefully remove the cooked chicken skewers from the grill. Serve them immediately with the chilled homemade tzatziki sauce for dipping. Enjoy your delicious Greek feast!
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
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