As I stood in my kitchen, the vibrant scents of olive oil, lemon, and dried oregano began to swirl around me, transporting my mind straight to a sun-drenched Greek taverna. That’s the magic of making Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce at home. This dish doesn’t just deliver a taste of the Mediterranean; it offers a quick and satisfying solution for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining friends. With juicy, grilled chicken skewers perfectly paired with a creamy, tangy tzatziki, everyone will be reaching for seconds. Plus, it’s gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. Are you ready to spice up your dinner routine with this delightful recipe?
Why is Greek Chicken Souvlaki a Must-Try?
Flavor Explosion: Each bite delivers a burst of Mediterranean flavors thanks to marinated chicken and bright tzatziki.
Quick Cooking: Grill up juicy chicken skewers in just 12 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
Customizable Options: Easily swap chicken for pork, shrimp, or tofu to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
Health-Conscious: With gluten-free ingredients and high protein, it’s a guilt-free indulgence that satisfies.
Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for gatherings, this dish will have everyone talking—and asking for seconds!
Dive into this delicious adventure that will transport your kitchen to Greece, and don’t forget to check out our tips for making tzatziki sauce for the most authentic flavor experience!
Greek Chicken Souvlaki Ingredients
• Gather these ingredients for a delicious experience!
For the Chicken Marinade
- Chicken Breast – Use boneless skinless for juicier skewers.
- Olive Oil – Adds moisture and richness; avocado oil can be used for a different flavor.
- Lemon Juice – Provides acidity and brightness; fresh juice is preferable but bottled works in a pinch.
- Minced Garlic – Enhances flavor; substitute with garlic powder if you’re short on time.
- Dried Oregano – Offers a traditional Greek herb flavor; thyme can be used as an alternative.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to personal taste.
For the Tzatziki Sauce
- Greek Yogurt – Acts as the base for tzatziki, adding creaminess; opt for low-fat for a lighter version.
- Cucumber – Provides coolness and texture; zucchini can be a substitute if cucumbers are unavailable.
- Fresh Dill – Adds herbaceous notes; can be replaced with mint for a refreshing twist.
For Serving
- Pita Bread – Perfect for serving; choose gluten-free pita if needed.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce
Step 1: Marinate Chicken
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper, mixing well. Then, add cubed chicken breast to the marinade, ensuring it is fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though 2 hours is ideal for enhancing the flavors in your Greek Chicken Souvlaki.
Step 2: Prepare Tzatziki Sauce
While the chicken marinates, prepare your refreshing tzatziki sauce. In another bowl, mix Greek yogurt, finely grated cucumber (squeezed to remove excess moisture), fresh dill, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir it all together until well blended. Cover and chill the tzatziki sauce in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld while your chicken is marinating.
Step 3: Preheat Grill
Get your grill ready by preheating it to medium-high heat, about 400°F (200°C). If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. A properly heated grill will help you achieve that beautiful char on your Greek Chicken Souvlaki, sealing in the juices for delicious, tender meat.
Step 4: Thread Chicken on Skewers
Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the fridge. Carefully thread the chicken pieces onto skewers, ensuring to leave some space between each piece for even cooking. This spacing allows the heat to circulate, giving you perfectly grilled chicken that is juicy and full of flavor.
Step 5: Grill Chicken
Place the skewers on the preheated grill, cooking for 10-12 minutes. Turn the skewers occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is golden brown with a slight char. This step is crucial for getting your Greek Chicken Souvlaki just right.
Step 6: Serve
Once grilled to perfection, remove the chicken skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve your Greek Chicken Souvlaki immediately with a side of chilled tzatziki sauce for dipping. Pair with warm pita bread and your favorite fresh vegetables for a delightful Mediterranean feast everyone will love.
Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce Variations
Feel free to make this Greek Chicken Souvlaki your own masterpiece with a few simple tweaks!
- Pork Swap: Substitute chicken with pork tenderloin for a slightly sweeter flavor that pairs wonderfully with tzatziki.
- Shrimp Delight: For a lighter option, use shrimp—just reduce marination to 15 minutes for a quick and zesty dish.
- Tofu Alternative: For a plant-based twist, replace chicken with firm tofu, marinating and grilling to achieve a delicious char.
- Veggie Skewers: Add bell peppers and onions to the skewers for extra veggies—this brings an added sweetness and color to your platter!
- Mediterranean Spice: Enhance your marinade with a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor that complements the vibrant Mediterranean herbs beautifully.
- Herb Variations: Switch fresh dill in your tzatziki with mint for a refreshing twist that brightens up each bite.
- Hearty Grain: Serve your souvlaki with quinoa or brown rice instead of pita for a satisfying, gluten-free option.
- Explore Heat: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade or tzatziki for those who enjoy a little extra kick!
These flavorful adaptations will help you customize your Greek Chicken Souvlaki to suit your taste perfectly! Plus, don’t forget to check out our guide on how to make tzatziki sauce for the ultimate touch.
Expert Tips for Greek Chicken Souvlaki
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Marination Time Matters: Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but aim for 2 hours to really boost those flavors in your Greek Chicken Souvlaki.
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Prevent Skewers from Burning: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to avoid burning during cooking.
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Spacing is Key: Ensure there’s space between the chicken pieces on the skewers. This allows for even cooking and helps achieve that perfect char without drying out.
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Watch the Grill Carefully: Keep an eye on the skewers while grilling. Too much time on the heat can lead to dried-out chicken. Aim for that golden exterior while keeping the interior juicy.
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Use a Meat Thermometer: For best results, use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked Greek Chicken Souvlaki.
What to Serve with Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce
Enhance your Mediterranean experience with these delicious pairing ideas that complement the flavorful chicken souvlaki.
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Warm Pita Bread: Soft and fluffy, pita is perfect for wrapping around chicken and scooping up tzatziki, adding a delightful texture.
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Greek Salad: Bursting with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives, it brings a refreshing crunch that balances the rich flavors of the souvlaki.
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Roasted Vegetables: A mix of colorful veggies caramelized to perfection adds earthy depth, harmony in flavor, and beautiful presentations.
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Lemon Rice: Fluffy rice infused with lemon zest complements the dish, providing a bright and zesty contrast to the savory chicken.
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Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus spears offer a healthy crunch that pairs perfectly with the smoky grilled chicken.
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Tzatziki Dipping Sauce: Can’t get enough of the tzatziki? Serve extra on the side for more of that creamy, refreshing goodness to dip.
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Red Wine: A glass of dry red wine enhances the meal’s exotic flavors, making your dining experience feel even more luxurious.
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Baklava: End on a sweet note with delicate baklava; its honeyed layers provide a rich dessert to round out this Mediterranean feast.
Storage Tips for Greek Chicken Souvlaki
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Fridge: Store leftover Greek Chicken Souvlaki in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze marinated chicken skewers before grilling. Wrap each skewer tightly in plastic wrap and foil, storing for up to 3 months for best quality.
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Reheating: Reheat the chicken on a grill or stovetop over medium heat for a few minutes per side, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to keep it juicy.
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Tzatziki Sauce: Keep leftover tzatziki in the fridge for up to 5 days; stir well before serving if separated.
Make Ahead Options
These Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring maximum flavor absorption. Just combine the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl, add cubed chicken, cover, and refrigerate. The tzatziki sauce can be prepared up to 3 days ahead—mix the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, dill, lemon juice, and salt, then chill it to let the flavors meld. When you’re ready to serve, thread the marinated chicken on skewers and grill for 10-12 minutes until golden and juicy. This way, you’ll have a delicious Mediterranean meal with minimal effort on busy nights!
Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to choose ripe cucumbers for tzatziki?
I recommend looking for firm cucumbers that are dark green in color with no soft spots or blemishes. The skin should be smooth, and it’s best to use them while they’re fresh for that crisp texture in your tzatziki sauce.
How should I store leftover Greek Chicken Souvlaki?
Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the chicken juicy, reheat on a grill or stovetop over medium heat until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I freeze Greek Chicken Souvlaki?
Absolutely! For freezing, wrap each marinated skewer tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before grilling, ensuring they’re fully cooked to 165°F (75°C).
What if my chicken is drying out on the grill?
If you find your chicken is drying out, it’s essential to keep an eye on it and avoid overcooking. A meat thermometer can help ensure it doesn’t exceed 165°F (75°C). Also, adding a bit of extra marinade or basting with olive oil while grilling can keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
Is tzatziki sauce safe for my pet?
Tzatziki sauce contains ingredients like garlic and salt that can be harmful to pets. It’s best to keep the sauce away from your furry friends and feed them only pet-safe foods.
Are there gluten-free pita options available?
Yes! Many stores offer gluten-free pita bread options. Make sure to check the label to confirm they are certified gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions!
Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce for Flavor Lovers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Add cubed chicken breast to the marinade and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 2 hours.
- While the chicken marinates, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, fresh dill, lemon juice, and salt in another bowl. Stir until well blended and chill in the refrigerator.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes.
- Thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving space between each piece.
- Grill the skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Remove skewers from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving with tzatziki sauce and pita bread.
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