Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce
Highlighted under: Global Flavors
Experience the vibrant flavors of Greece with this delicious Greek Chicken Souvlaki served with a refreshing Tzatziki sauce. Perfect for summer grilling or a quick weeknight dinner!
This Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe brings the taste of the Mediterranean to your kitchen. Marinated in a blend of herbs and spices, the chicken is grilled to perfection and paired with a creamy, tangy Tzatziki sauce that enhances every bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Tender and juicy chicken marinated in authentic Greek spices
- Cool and creamy Tzatziki that complements the dish perfectly
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it great for weeknight meals or summer barbecues
The Essence of Greek Cuisine
Greek cuisine is renowned for its bold and aromatic flavors, often using fresh herbs, spices, and high-quality ingredients. This Greek Chicken Souvlaki captures the essence of traditional Greek cooking, featuring succulent chicken marinated in a blend of olive oil, garlic, and oregano. The vibrant flavors are not only delicious but are also representative of the Mediterranean diet, which is celebrated for its health benefits.
Souvlaki, a popular street food in Greece, is typically made by grilling marinated meat on skewers. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also versatile, allowing you to serve it in various ways. Whether wrapped in pita bread or served alongside a fresh salad, Greek Chicken Souvlaki is sure to impress your family and friends.
The Perfect Pair: Tzatziki Sauce
No Greek meal is complete without the refreshing taste of Tzatziki sauce. Made from creamy Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, and a hint of garlic, this sauce is the perfect complement to the savory flavors of the grilled chicken. Tzatziki not only adds a cooling element to the dish but also provides a source of probiotics, making it a healthy addition to your meal.
To enhance the flavor of your Tzatziki, consider adding fresh dill or mint. These herbs add an aromatic touch that elevates the overall taste experience. Whether you choose to dip your chicken skewers into the sauce or drizzle it over your dish, Tzatziki is a delightful accompaniment that brings the flavors of Greece to your table.
Perfect for Every Occasion
This Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki sauce is incredibly versatile, making it an ideal choice for various occasions. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or preparing a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Its simplicity and ease of preparation mean you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your loved ones.
Additionally, this dish is great for meal prep. Marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge, so when you're ready to grill, everything is ready to go. Serve it alongside your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables or a Greek salad, for a complete and balanced meal.
Ingredients
For the Souvlaki
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
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, chopped (optional)
Mix the ingredients well and let them marinade for an hour for the best flavor.
Cooking Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat. Cover and let marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce
In a bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add chopped dill if desired. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Grill the Souvlaki
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers. Grill for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
Serve
Remove the chicken from the skewers and serve with the Tzatziki sauce on the side. Enjoy with pita bread or a fresh salad!
Serve warm and enjoy the flavors of Greece!
Tips for the Best Souvlaki
For the juiciest chicken, consider using chicken thighs instead of breasts. Thighs have more fat content, which can lead to a more tender and flavorful result. If you prefer chicken breasts, be careful not to overcook them; they can dry out quickly on the grill.
Soaking your skewers in water for about 30 minutes before grilling can prevent them from burning. This simple step ensures that your skewers hold up during cooking and make for an easier cleanup afterward.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Greek Chicken Souvlaki with warm pita bread and a side of Greek salad for a delicious and satisfying meal. You can also serve it with roasted potatoes or a quinoa salad for a healthy twist.
For a complete Greek-inspired feast, consider making other classic dishes like spanakopita or stuffed grape leaves. This will create a delightful dining experience that showcases the vibrant flavors of Greek cuisine.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store the cooked chicken and Tzatziki sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken can last for up to three days, while the Tzatziki should be consumed within a week due to the fresh ingredients.
To reheat the chicken, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the chicken tough. Serve the reheated chicken with fresh Tzatziki for a quick and delicious meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other meats for the souvlaki?
Yes, you can use pork, lamb, or shrimp as alternatives to chicken.
→ How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make the Tzatziki sauce in advance?
Absolutely! Tzatziki can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the souvlaki and tzatziki sauce are gluten-free as long as you serve it without pita bread.
Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce
Experience the vibrant flavors of Greece with this delicious Greek Chicken Souvlaki served with a refreshing Tzatziki sauce. Perfect for summer grilling or a quick weeknight dinner!
Created by: Imogen Price
Recipe Type: Global Flavors
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Souvlaki
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
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, chopped (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat. Cover and let marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
In a bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add chopped dill if desired. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers. Grill for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
Remove the chicken from the skewers and serve with the Tzatziki sauce on the side. Enjoy with pita bread or a fresh salad!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 36g