Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce

Name: Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes); 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1/2 cucumber, grated and excess water squeezed out; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh dill for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Experience the vibrant flavors of Greece with this delicious Greek Chicken Souvlaki paired with a refreshing Tzatziki sauce. Perfect for grilling season or a weeknight dinner!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-21T09:39:44.183Z

This Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe brings the taste of the Mediterranean to your kitchen. The marinated chicken is grilled to perfection and served with a creamy Tzatziki sauce that enhances every bite.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy chicken marinated in fragrant spices
Creamy Tzatziki that adds a refreshing zing
Perfect for outdoor grilling or weeknight dinners

      

Discover the Essence of Greek Cuisine

Greek cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and healthy Mediterranean staples. At the heart of this culinary tradition lies the famous souvlaki, a dish that showcases tender, marinated meat grilled to perfection. This Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe not only brings the taste of Greece to your kitchen but also provides a healthy option for your family meals. The use of aromatic herbs and spices elevates the chicken, making every bite a delightful experience.

Pairing the souvlaki with a creamy Tzatziki sauce enhances the overall flavor profile. Tzatziki, made from Greek yogurt and fresh cucumbers, is a staple in Greek cuisine that adds a refreshing zing to grilled meats. This cooling sauce balances the spices in the souvlaki, making it a perfect complement. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or preparing a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress.

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the best aspects of Greek Chicken Souvlaki is its versatility. Ideal for summer grilling, this dish shines when cooked outdoors, allowing the smoky flavors to develop beautifully. However, you can also prepare it in a grill pan or even bake it in the oven during colder months. The quick marination time means you can whip it up even on busy weeknights, making it a fantastic option for families looking to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Furthermore, the skewered presentation of souvlaki makes it a fun and interactive dish for gatherings. Guests can assemble their own plates, choosing how much tzatziki to add and what sides to enjoy. Serve it with a Greek salad, pita bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will love. This dish is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings people together.

Health Benefits of Souvlaki and Tzatziki

In addition to being delicious, Greek Chicken Souvlaki is packed with health benefits. Chicken breast is a lean source of protein that supports muscle growth and helps keep you feeling full. The marinade, featuring olive oil and lemon juice, is rich in antioxidants and healthy fats, promoting heart health and enhancing the flavors of the chicken. By grilling rather than frying, you reduce added fats, making this dish a nutritious choice for any diet.

The Tzatziki sauce not only adds flavor but also offers additional health benefits. Made primarily with Greek yogurt, it provides probiotics that support digestive health. The grated cucumber adds hydration and fiber, while garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties. Together, these ingredients create a dish that is not only satisfying but also contributes to your overall well-being.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this tasty dish:

For the Chicken Souvlaki

1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes)

For the Tzatziki Sauce

1 cup Greek yogurt
1/2 cucumber, grated and excess water squeezed out
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh dill for garnish (optional)

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Greek Chicken Souvlaki:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat. Cover and marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

In a separate bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir well and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Skewer and Grill the Chicken

Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers. Preheat your grill over medium-high heat and grill the skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.

Serve

Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the chicken souvlaki with the tzatziki sauce and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce!

Tips for the Perfect Souvlaki

To achieve the best flavor and tenderness, marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes, but if you have time, letting it sit for a few hours or even overnight in the fridge will enhance the taste significantly. Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high before adding the skewers; this helps to create those beautiful grill marks while keeping the chicken juicy inside.

If you're using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning on the grill and ensures your chicken stays securely in place while cooking. Alternatively, metal skewers are a great option for a reusable and eco-friendly choice.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Greek Chicken Souvlaki, the options are endless. You can serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside warm pita bread for a hearty meal. For a lighter option, pair it with a fresh Greek salad that includes tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese, drizzled with a simple olive oil dressing.

Don't forget to garnish your souvlaki with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an added touch of flavor and color. This not only enhances the presentation but also complements the overall taste of the dish. Enjoy the meal with a glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing lemonade for a perfect dining experience.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing them properly will help maintain their flavor and texture. Place the leftover chicken souvlaki in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The tzatziki sauce can also be stored separately, making it easy to enjoy the dish again without losing freshness.

When reheating, consider using a skillet over medium heat to warm the chicken gently, which helps prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, you can enjoy the souvlaki cold in a wrap or salad for a quick lunch. This versatility makes Greek Chicken Souvlaki a great option for meal prep or quick dinners throughout the week.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and will add more juiciness to the dish.

→ How long can I marinate the chicken?

You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours for enhanced flavor.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with pita bread, Greek salad, or rice.

→ Can I make the Tzatziki sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Tzatziki sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.