If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bright, zesty flavors and transports you straight to the sun-soaked shores of the Mediterranean, the Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe is your new go-to. This recipe perfectly balances juicy, tender chicken marinated in lemon and herbs with a cooling, creamy tzatziki that’s bursting with fresh dill and cucumber. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself to a vibrant weeknight dinner, these skewers are simple yet so full of personality that every bite feels like a celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Although this recipe relies on a handful of straightforward ingredients, each one plays a crucial role in bringing the Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe to life. From the sharp brightness of fresh lemon to the aromatic punch of oregano, these components combine to create an irresistible harmony of taste and texture.
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cubed into 1-inch pieces for perfect grilling and easy skewering.
- ¼ cup olive oil: Adds smooth richness and helps the marinade penetrate the chicken for juicy results.
- Juice and zest of 1 large lemon: Provides bright acidity and that signature citrus zing everyone loves.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the chicken with savory depth and warmth.
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar: Offers a touch of tang to balance the lemon’s sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano: A classic Greek herb that imparts earthy, aromatic notes.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors just right.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and complexity.
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt: The creamy base for the cooling tzatziki sauce.
- ½ cucumber, grated and squeezed dry: Provides crisp freshness and crunch in the tzatziki.
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped: Bright and herbaceous, indispensable for authentic tzatziki.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Gives the tzatziki that perfect tang.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Adds a hint of sharpness in the sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning the tzatziki just right.
- Wooden or metal skewers: The trusty vessel for grilling your chicken.
How to Make Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the marinade
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice and zest, garlic, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until beautifully combined. This marinade is where the magic begins—each ingredient layering brightness, herbal notes, and a touch of garlic warmth onto your chicken.
Step 2: Marinate the chicken
Add the cubed chicken breasts to the marinade, tossing until every piece is evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but if you have the time, 2 hours will deepen those flavors even more. This step ensures the chicken stays juicy and full of flavor once grilled.
Step 3: Make the tzatziki sauce
While the chicken marinates, mix together the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, chopped dill, lemon juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and well blended. Place the sauce in the fridge to chill, allowing those fresh ingredients to marry into a cool, creamy complement for your skewers.
Step 4: Preheat the grill
Get your grill or grill pan hot and ready on medium-high heat. A properly heated grill gives the chicken those irresistible char marks and seals in the marinade’s juices.
Step 5: Thread and grill the chicken skewers
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto your skewers, ensuring not to overcrowd them for even cooking. Place them on the grill and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning periodically. You want those pieces cooked through and boasting a lovely golden char without drying out.
Step 6: Serve with tzatziki
Once grilled, serve your beautiful skewers hot with a generous spoonful of the chilled tzatziki sauce. This combination of warm, zesty chicken with cool, creamy sauce is nothing short of spectacular.
How to Serve Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a few lemon wedges on the side can elevate the presentation and add brightness at the table. Thinly sliced red onion or a dusting of smoked paprika can also bring extra layers of flavor and color that make every bite exciting.
Side Dishes
These skewers shine alongside fluffy pita bread, a crisp Greek salad, or even some warm, herby couscous. Roasted vegetables or a simple lemon rice pilaf also make wonderful, complementary companions that round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the skewers on top of a bed of fresh greens drizzled with tzatziki. You can also go the wraps route—pile chicken, sauce, and crunchy veggies into soft pita pockets for a handheld feast everyone will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover grilled chicken skewers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep your tzatziki sauce separate until ready to serve to maintain its fresh flavor and creamy texture.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the skewers, remove them from the skewers first and store in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the grill or in a skillet.
Reheating
To bring that lovely grilled texture back, reheat leftover chicken skewers in a grill pan or under the broiler for a few minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve their juicy, slightly charred character.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and rich flavor. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking and follow the same marinade and grilling instructions.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for this recipe?
Definitely! You could swap chicken for thick slices of halloumi or marinated tofu, which also grill beautifully and pair perfectly with tzatziki sauce.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
While 30 minutes is the minimum for good flavor, marinating for up to 2 hours or even overnight in the fridge will deepen the taste and tenderness of the chicken.
Can I prepare the tzatziki sauce ahead of time?
Yes, tzatziki actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours as the flavors meld. Just keep it refrigerated and give it a good stir before serving.
What can I serve instead of pita bread?
If you want to skip the pita, a light salad or roasted veggies work beautifully. You could also use lettuce leaves to wrap the chicken and tzatziki for a low-carb option.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe — it’s a vibrant celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients and classic Mediterranean flavors that feel both comforting and exciting. Next time you want to impress your taste buds and your guests, give this dish a whirl. Trust me, it’s going to quickly become one of your favorite recipes to make and share.
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Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce are a flavorful and healthy Mediterranean-inspired dish. Tender chicken breast cubes are marinated in a zesty blend of lemon, garlic, and oregano, then grilled to perfection and served alongside a refreshing homemade tzatziki sauce made from Greek yogurt, cucumber, and fresh dill. Perfect for a light and satisfying main course that’s easy to prepare and full of vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- ¼ cup olive oil
- Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Tzatziki Sauce
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- ½ cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other
- Wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. This mixture creates a vibrant marinade that will infuse the chicken with rich Mediterranean flavors.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken breasts to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors, or up to 2 hours for a deeper taste.
- Make the Tzatziki Sauce: While the chicken marinates, combine the Greek yogurt, grated and drained cucumber, chopped dill, lemon juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. Stir well and chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve. This sauce adds a cool, creamy contrast to the grilled chicken.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat ensuring it’s hot enough to give the chicken beautiful grill marks and a smoky flavor.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto wooden or metal skewers evenly, making sure not to overcrowd for even cooking.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook for approximately 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure each side is evenly cooked and slightly charred. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and be cooked through.
- Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and serve hot with a generous dollop of chilled tzatziki sauce. Pair with pita bread and a fresh side salad for a complete Mediterranean meal.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for extra juiciness and richer flavor.
- For an even more intense flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
- Serve with warm pita bread and a side Greek salad to make this a full, satisfying meal.
