Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that sings with bright Mediterranean flavors and looks absolutely irresistible when served, Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce is a top-tier choice. This recipe delivers juicy, grilled chicken infused with garlic, oregano, and a generous pop of fresh lemon, all paired with a cool, creamy homemade tzatziki sauce. Not only is it a real crowd-pleaser at any gathering, but it’s also simple enough for a casual weeknight dinner. Each bite whisks you away to a sun-drenched Greek taverna—promise!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce lies in its straightforward lineup of fresh, Mediterranean-inspired ingredients. There are no complicated components here; every item brings its own flair to the dish, whether it’s the aromatic herbs or that signature tang from real lemon juice. Here’s what you’ll need, with a tip for every ingredient:
- Chicken breast: Go for boneless, skinless pieces for both tenderness and ease of skewering.
- Olive oil: Excellent for marinating the chicken, adding richness and helping everything grill to crispy, golden perfection.
- Fresh lemon juice: Adds a fresh, zesty brightness that defines the signature flavor of this dish.
- Lemon zest: Don’t skip this! The zest amps up the citrus aroma and offers extra flavor punch.
- Garlic: Minced for maximum infusion, it gives the marinade and sauce real depth.
- Dried oregano: The herb that delivers true Greek character—rub it between your hands for more fragrance.
- Salt: Seasons every bite and enhances all those sunny flavors.
- Black pepper: A little heat and complexity rounds things out beautifully.
- Wooden or metal skewers: Soak wooden ones in water first to avoid burning, or opt for reusable metal to skip this step.
- Plain Greek yogurt: Thick, creamy, and naturally tangy—perfect for an authentic tzatziki.
- Cucumber, finely grated and drained: Removing excess water keeps your tzatziki fluffy, not runny.
- Lemon juice (for the sauce): A fresh squeeze brightens up the cool, creamy dip.
- Garlic (for the sauce): Just a touch brings zing to every dollop of tzatziki.
- Fresh dill, chopped: This herb is essential for tzatziki’s cooling, distinct herbal freshness.
- Salt and pepper (for the sauce): Adjust to your taste for a balanced, rounded flavor.
How to Make Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken cubes, tossing to coat thoroughly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes—or, better yet, up to 2 hours. This step lets every piece soak up those savory and citrusy flavors for maximum juiciness.
Step 2: Prepare the Skewers
If you’re using wooden skewers, take a quick moment to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. This little trick keeps them from burning on the grill. While they soak, you can get your other ingredients prepped—efficiency at its finest!
Step 3: Make the Tzatziki Sauce
Grab a mixing bowl and combine Greek yogurt, grated and well-drained cucumber, lemon juice, minced garlic, fresh chopped dill, and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Stir until everything’s beautifully blended. Chill the tzatziki in the fridge while you grill the chicken, so the flavors have time to mingle and blossom.
Step 4: Assemble and Grill the Skewers
Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto your skewers, spreading them out just enough for even cooking. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high. Place the skewers on the grate and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and lightly charred. The enticing aroma at this stage is pure magic!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange your golden Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce on a platter. Pair them up with your homemade tzatziki and, if you’re feeling fancy, garnish with extra lemon slices or herbs. Dig in while everything’s still warm for the ultimate fresh-off-the-grill experience.
How to Serve Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce
Garnishes
You can easily take your plate from “tasty” to “restaurant-worthy” with a few simple garnishes. Think sprigs of fresh dill, wedges of juicy lemon, or even a sprinkle of crumbled feta over the skewers. Each garnish not only pops visually but also adds an extra layer of flavor that complements this sun-kissed dish.
Side Dishes
Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce just begs to be served with warm pita bread and a vibrant Greek salad full of crisp cucumber, tomato, olives, and creamy feta. Roasted potatoes or fluffy rice pilaf are hearty options, too, making this a satisfying meal that appeals to every appetite at the table.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, try serving each skewer on a bed of baby greens with a little drizzle of tzatziki already on top. Or load them into pita pockets with a handful of veggies for a Greek-style sandwich. Another fun option: offer an assortment of dipping sauces alongside the tzatziki so guests can mix and match for their perfect bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself lucky enough to have extras, simply store the chicken and tzatziki separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The chicken will keep nicely for 3 to 4 days, and the sauce remains fresh for up to 3 days. This makes for easy future lunches or quick dinners that are just as delicious the next day.
Freezing
The marinated, uncooked chicken can be frozen in a zip-top freezer bag for up to two months—so you always have a head start for future meals. While tzatziki sauce is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the yogurt base ahead and add cucumber and dill after thawing to ensure a crisp, fresh texture.
Reheating
To reheat the skewers, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 minutes, or warm gently in a skillet. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the chicken. Always add fresh tzatziki right before serving to maintain that cool, creamy contrast.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are slightly fattier, which means even more juicy flavor. Just trim off excess fat and proceed as directed. Cooking times may be the same or a touch longer, so check for doneness before serving.
Do I really need to marinate for the full time?
The longer you can marinate, the better the flavor will be. If pressed for time, 30 minutes will do in a pinch, but a couple of hours makes a huge difference in tenderness and taste for Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce.
Can I cook the skewers in the oven instead of grilling?
Definitely! Place the assembled skewers on a baking sheet lined with foil and bake at 425°F for about 15-18 minutes, turning once halfway through. You can broil them for the last few minutes if you want a charred finish.
What’s the secret to extra creamy tzatziki sauce?
Squeeze every bit of moisture from your grated cucumber before adding to the yogurt. This keeps the sauce thick and lush, not watery. Full-fat Greek yogurt also gives the best results.
Are Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Both the chicken and sauce keep very well when stored properly, making this recipe a great choice for prepping ahead and assembling quick lunches or dinners during your busy week.
Final Thoughts
Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce bring so much to the table: vibrant flavors, a fun presentation, and an undeniable taste of the Mediterranean. Whether you’re impressing dinner guests or treating yourself to something special, give this recipe a try and let these zingy, herb-kissed skewers transport you—bite by bite—to your favorite Greek getaway.
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Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes (plus marinating)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce are a delightful and flavorful dish that brings the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean to your table. Tender marinated chicken grilled to perfection and served with a creamy, tangy tzatziki sauce, this recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken Skewers:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- wooden or metal skewers
Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup cucumber, finely grated and drained
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken cubes in the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce: Combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, garlic, dill, salt, and pepper. Chill until serving.
- Grill the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers. Grill for 10-12 minutes until fully cooked and slightly charred, turning occasionally.
- Serve: Serve the hot skewers with tzatziki sauce on the side.
Notes
- For extra flavor, grill lemon slices alongside the skewers and squeeze over the chicken before serving.
- Serve with warm pita bread and a fresh Greek salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skewers with sauce
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
