Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce
Highlighted under: Global Flavors
Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Greece with this delicious Greek Chicken Souvlaki paired with a creamy Tzatziki sauce. Perfect for grilling season!
This Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a classic dish that brings the Mediterranean right to your table. Marinated in a fragrant blend of herbs and spices, the chicken is grilled to perfection and served with a refreshing Tzatziki sauce.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Tender, juicy chicken bursting with flavor
- Creamy, tangy Tzatziki sauce that complements the meat perfectly
- Quick and easy to make, great for weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues
A Taste of Greece
Greek cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, and this Chicken Souvlaki embodies those qualities perfectly. Traditionally served on skewers, this dish offers a delightful combination of tender chicken marinated in olive oil, lemon, and aromatic herbs. The grilling process adds a smoky depth that enhances each bite, making it a favorite for both casual diners and gourmet enthusiasts.
The accompanying Tzatziki sauce, made from creamy Greek yogurt and refreshing cucumber, provides a cooling contrast to the warm, spiced chicken. This sauce is not just a condiment; it elevates the entire dish, balancing the robust flavors with its tangy and creamy profile. Together, they create a meal that transports you straight to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue, preparing a family weeknight dinner, or looking to impress guests at a dinner party, Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a versatile choice. Its simplicity in preparation means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your loved ones. Plus, it’s easy to double or triple the recipe for larger gatherings.
This dish is also highly customizable. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the skewers, such as bell peppers or onions, for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition. Pair it with a fresh Greek salad or warm pita bread for a complete meal that satisfies both cravings and dietary needs.
Grilling Tips for Success
To achieve perfectly grilled Chicken Souvlaki, preheating your grill is crucial. Ensure it reaches a medium-high heat before placing the skewers on the grates. This allows for a nice sear and helps lock in the juices, resulting in tender, flavorful chicken. Additionally, turning the skewers occasionally ensures even cooking and prevents burning.
If you're using wooden skewers, soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling is essential. This prevents them from burning on the grill, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the worry of charred sticks. With these tips in mind, your Chicken Souvlaki will turn out perfectly every time!
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to create your Greek Chicken Souvlaki and Tzatziki sauce:
For the Chicken Souvlaki
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
For the Tzatziki Sauce
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cucumber, grated and drained
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill for garnish (optional)
Make sure to let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your Greek Chicken Souvlaki and Tzatziki sauce:
Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce
In another bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate until serving.
Skewer the Chicken
Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked wooden skewers.
Grill the Chicken
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked through and slightly charred.
Serve
Serve the grilled chicken souvlaki with Tzatziki sauce on the side. Enjoy!
Pair with pita bread and a Greek salad for a complete meal!
Storage and Reheating
Leftover Chicken Souvlaki can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place the skewers on a grill or in a preheated oven until warmed through. This method helps maintain the chicken's moisture and flavor, ensuring that your leftovers taste just as delightful as when freshly prepared.
If you want to save time during meal prep, consider marinating the chicken a day in advance. This not only enhances the flavors but also allows for a quick grilling session later. Just be sure to store the marinated chicken in the fridge until you're ready to cook.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Chicken Souvlaki alongside a fresh Greek salad, featuring tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese, dressed with a simple olive oil and lemon vinaigrette. This adds a refreshing crunch that complements the savory chicken beautifully.
For an authentic experience, consider including warm pita bread and a side of roasted vegetables or rice. These elements create a well-rounded meal that is both satisfying and full of Mediterranean flair, making it perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other meats for souvlaki?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with pork, beef, or lamb.
→ How long can I store the Tzatziki sauce?
Tzatziki sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the Tzatziki sauce ahead of time, just grill the chicken when ready to serve.
→ What can I serve with Greek Chicken Souvlaki?
Serve with pita bread, Greek salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce
Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Greece with this delicious Greek Chicken Souvlaki paired with a creamy Tzatziki sauce. Perfect for grilling season!
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Global Flavors
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken Souvlaki
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
For the Tzatziki Sauce
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cucumber, grated and drained
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
In another bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate until serving.
Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked wooden skewers.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked through and slightly charred.
Serve the grilled chicken souvlaki with Tzatziki sauce on the side. Enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 8g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 34g