Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce

Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce bring the bold, bright flavors of Mediterranean cuisine straight to your plate. Marinated in a zesty blend of lemon, garlic, and fresh oregano, these tender chicken skewers are grilled to perfection, creating a delightful mix of smoky, savory, and tangy flavors. Paired with a creamy, refreshing tzatziki sauce, this dish is the epitome of light yet satisfying summer grilling.

Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, preparing a weeknight dinner, or craving a healthy meal full of vibrant flavors, Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers offer the perfect balance of lean protein and fresh ingredients. The tzatziki sauce, made from yogurt, cucumber, and lemon, adds a cooling contrast to the warm, citrusy chicken. This dish is not only flavorful but also easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Serve it with a side of grilled vegetables, a simple salad, or some warm pita bread for a truly Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Zesty and Flavorful – The marinade combines lemon, garlic, and oregano to infuse the chicken with bright, tangy flavors.
2. Healthy and Light – Made with lean chicken and a refreshing yogurt-based sauce, it’s a healthier alternative to heavy, greasy grilled meats.
3. Easy to Prepare – The recipe requires simple ingredients and minimal prep time, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
4. Customizable – Adjust the marinade to suit your preferences by adding more garlic, herbs, or even a touch of honey for sweetness.
5. Perfect for Summer Grilling – Light and fresh, this dish is ideal for grilling outdoors on warm days or cooking on your stovetop.

Ingredients

• 1 1/4 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimmed of excess fat
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons plain yogurt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 teaspoons)
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh oregano (or 1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano)
• 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil plus more for the grill
• 2 lemons, thinly sliced

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 teaspoons)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 cucumber, peeled

Variations

• Add Spice: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
• Grilled Veggies: Add a side of grilled vegetables, like bell peppers, zucchini, and onions, for a complete Mediterranean feast.
• Chicken Thighs: Substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful skewer.
• Herb Variations: Swap oregano for thyme, rosemary, or a mix of fresh Mediterranean herbs.
• Dairy-Free Tzatziki: Use coconut or almond yogurt instead of regular yogurt for a dairy-free version of the tzatziki sauce.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine salt, yogurt, minced garlic, oregano, black pepper, lemon juice, and olive oil. Mix well until smooth. Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes and add them to the marinade. Stir to coat the chicken thoroughly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours, to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 2: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

While the chicken is marinating, prepare the tzatziki sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine plain yogurt, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Grate the peeled cucumber using a box grater, then press the cucumber to remove excess moisture. Add the grated cucumber to the yogurt mixture and stir well to combine. Chill the tzatziki sauce in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Step 3: Prepare the Skewers

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, alternating with slices of lemon for added flavor and a beautiful presentation.

Step 4: Grill the Skewers

Brush the grill with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the chicken skewers on the grill and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Serve

Once the chicken is grilled, remove it from the skewers and arrange it on a serving platter. Serve with the tzatziki sauce on the side, and enjoy with a side of grilled vegetables, pita bread, or a Greek salad.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Marinating Time: For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but longer marinating times (up to 4 hours) will allow the flavors to infuse even more.
• Grilling Tip: If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the skewers on a grill pan or under the broiler in the oven.
• Chicken Size: Ensure that your chicken pieces are uniform in size to cook evenly.
• Make Extra Sauce: The tzatziki sauce is so delicious that you may want to make extra. It also works great as a dip for veggies or a topping for sandwiches.
• Substitute Yogurt: If you prefer a thinner tzatziki sauce, you can add a little olive oil or lemon juice to adjust the consistency.

How to Serve

These Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers are best served hot off the grill with a generous side of tzatziki sauce. Pair them with a fresh Greek salad made with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and feta, or serve them alongside warm pita bread for a complete meal. You can also serve them with grilled veggies like bell peppers and zucchini, or over a bed of rice for a more filling option. The tzatziki sauce adds a cooling contrast to the warm, zesty chicken, making every bite a delightful experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken skewers and tzatziki sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken will stay fresh for up to 3 days, and the tzatziki sauce can be kept for up to 5 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken skewers for up to 2 months. Allow the skewers to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, reheat the skewers in the oven or on the grill.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken skewers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, or on the grill for a few minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great for skewers as they are juicier and more flavorful.

2. Can I make this dish without a grill?

Yes! You can use a grill pan or broil the skewers in the oven if you don’t have access to a grill.

3. How can I make the tzatziki sauce spicier?

You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a bit of hot sauce to the tzatziki sauce for a spicy kick.

4. Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken the night before and cook it the next day.

5. Can I use a store-bought tzatziki sauce?

While homemade tzatziki is always best, store-bought versions can work in a pinch. Look for one with simple, fresh ingredients.

6. How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but up to 4 hours will yield even more flavor.

7. Can I add vegetables to the skewers?

Absolutely! You can add bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes to the skewers for a colorful and flavorful addition.

8. What other herbs can I use for the marinade?

If you don’t have oregano, you can substitute thyme, rosemary, or parsley for a different flavor profile.

9. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can use dairy-free yogurt for the tzatziki sauce and substitute the yogurt in the chicken marinade with a non-dairy option.

10. How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can also cut into the thickest part to ensure it’s no longer pink.

Conclusion

Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce are a flavorful and healthy way to enjoy the bright, fresh flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. The combination of marinated chicken and creamy, tangy tzatziki makes this dish both satisfying and refreshing. Perfect for grilling season or any time you’re craving something light and delicious, these skewers are sure to be a hit at your next gathering or family meal.

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