Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce - A Flavorful Greek Classic

If you’re a fan of Mediterranean flavors, chicken souvlaki with tzatziki sauce is a must-try recipe. This Greek classic combines the savory and herbaceous flavors of marinated chicken with the creamy, tangy freshness of tzatziki sauce. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or craving a taste of Greece, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

This chicken souvlaki with tzatziki sauce is both delicious and simple to make, offering bold flavors without requiring complicated steps. The marinade infuses the chicken with the traditional Greek flavors of garlic, lemon, and herbs, resulting in juicy, tender bites that pair perfectly with the cool and creamy tzatziki. Ideal for any occasion, this dish brings a taste of Greece to your table, offering a flavorful, healthy meal.

Recipe Overview

Name of the Recipe

Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce

Brief Description

This classic Greek dish features marinated and grilled chicken skewers served with a creamy tzatziki sauce. Enjoy these flavorful bites in pita bread, as part of a salad, or on their own!

Ingredients

For the Chicken Souvlaki:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Wooden or metal skewers

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained of excess water
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Substitutions

Try these substitutions to suit your dietary needs:

• Chicken: Use pork or lamb instead of chicken for an alternative protein option.
• Greek Yogurt: Substitute with dairy-free yogurt for a dairy-free tzatziki sauce.
• Fresh Dill: Use dried dill if fresh is unavailable, but reduce the quantity slightly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to make delicious chicken souvlaki with tzatziki sauce:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
3. Make the Tzatziki Sauce: While the chicken is marinating, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, dill, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well, cover, and refrigerate until ready to serve.
4. Assemble the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers.
5. Grill the Chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char.
6. Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and serve with a side of tzatziki sauce, pita bread, and lemon wedges for garnish.

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes (plus marinating time)

Serving Suggestions

This chicken souvlaki with tzatziki sauce serves about four people. Here are some serving ideas to elevate the experience:

• In Pita Bread: Serve the chicken souvlaki in warm pita bread with fresh vegetables and tzatziki sauce for a hearty sandwich.
• As a Platter: Pair with Greek salad, rice, and pita bread for a complete Mediterranean meal.
• On a Salad: Top a bed of greens with chicken souvlaki, tzatziki, olives, and feta cheese for a fresh and flavorful salad.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of chicken souvlaki with tzatziki sauce contains approximately:

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fat: 18g

Storage and Reheating Tips

For best results, enjoy chicken souvlaki fresh off the grill. However, here’s how to store and reheat leftovers:

• Refrigeration: Store cooked chicken and tzatziki sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat chicken on the grill or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it may dry out the chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Yes, you can cook the chicken skewers in a skillet or broil them in the oven, turning them to ensure even cooking.

How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill?

Make sure the grill is preheated and well-oiled before placing the skewers on it. This helps prevent sticking and creates those nice grill marks.

Is tzatziki sauce necessary, or can I use another sauce?

While tzatziki sauce pairs beautifully with chicken souvlaki, you can try other sauces like hummus or tahini dressing if you prefer.

Conclusion

This chicken souvlaki with tzatziki sauce is a delicious way to bring the taste of Greece to your kitchen. The flavorful marinade and refreshing tzatziki sauce make it an unforgettable meal, perfect for family dinners, picnics, or gatherings. Give this recipe a try, and let the taste of Mediterranean flavors transport you to the beautiful shores of Greece.

If you tried this recipe, we’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your feedback in the comments below, and don’t forget to follow our blog for more exciting recipes.