If you’re looking for a dish that absolutely bursts with Mediterranean sunshine, look no further than Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce. This recipe combines juicy, marinated chicken with pops of lemon and fragrant oregano, then grills it to perfection. A creamy, garlicky tzatziki sauce cools things down and adds iconic Greek flair. Whether you’re cooking for a backyard gathering or craving something simple and fresh on a weeknight, Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce delivers unmatched flavor every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce is how the simplest, freshest ingredients play together in such harmony. Each component brings something unique—whether it’s tang, savory depth, or herby brightness.
- Chicken breasts or thighs: Opt for boneless, skinless pieces—breasts for lean tenderness, or thighs for extra juiciness and flavor.
- Olive oil: Delivers richness to the marinade and helps keep the chicken moist on the grill.
- Lemon (juice and zest): Adds sunny acidity and aroma, infusing the chicken and sauce with signature Greek zestiness.
- Garlic: Freshly minced for a punchy depth that lingers in the best way.
- Red wine vinegar: Brings a gentle tang that enhances the marinade and helps tenderize the chicken.
- Fresh oregano (or dried): This unmistakable herb provides classic Mediterranean flavor—fresh for vibrancy, dried for a more concentrated taste.
- Salt and black pepper: Simple but crucial—seasonings that tie all the flavors together.
- Wooden skewers: Perfect for grilling and presentation—just soak them in water first so they don’t burn.
- Plain Greek yogurt: The creamy, tangy base of your tzatziki sauce, packed with protein.
- Grated cucumber: Provides cool crunch and freshness—just be sure to squeeze out the extra water for the right texture.
- Lemon juice: Brightens the sauce and complements the marinade.
- Fresh dill: Brings a pop of green and herbaceous flavor—completely transforms tzatziki.
- Salt and pepper for tzatziki: Essential for balancing all those fresh flavors.
How to Make Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by whisking together olive oil, fresh lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Add the chicken cubes and toss so every piece is luxuriously coated in this punchy marinade. Cover and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—up to 4 hours if you can wait! The longer it marinates, the more flavorful and tender your Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce will be.
Step 2: Make the Tzatziki Sauce
While the chicken soaks up all those Mediterranean flavors, whip up your homemade tzatziki. Mix Greek yogurt, grated (and well-drained) cucumber, lemon juice, minced garlic, a handful of chopped fresh dill, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir until creamy and luscious, then chill it so the flavors meld. This sauce is the cooling counterpoint that makes the dish truly sing.
Step 3: Prepare the Skewers
If you’re using wooden skewers, give them a good soak in water for at least 20–30 minutes so they don’t char on the grill. Thread the marinated chicken evenly onto the skewers—leave just a little space between the pieces for maximum juicy goodness and those irresistible grill marks.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lay the skewers down and cook for 10–12 minutes, turning every few minutes, until the chicken is golden, juicy, and cooked through. Watch for those mouthwatering charred bits—those are pure flavor!
Step 5: Serve with Tzatziki
Plate up the skewers, keeping the vibrant tzatziki on the side. Let everyone dip and drizzle to their heart’s content. Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce is best enjoyed fresh and warm, when the chicken is tender and the sauce is extra cool and creamy.
How to Serve Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce
Garnishes
For a final finishing touch, a sprinkle of fresh dill or chopped parsley across your plate makes the colors pop and the flavors sing. Lemon wedges add a bit of extra brightness for anyone who loves a zesty kick. Drizzle a touch of extra olive oil over the tzatziki to make it look restaurant-worthy!
Side Dishes
Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce is perfectly complemented with warm pita bread, fluffy rice, or a vibrant Greek salad packed with cucumbers, tomatoes, feta, and olives. Roasted potatoes or grilled vegetables are fabulous for a more robust feast.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to have a little fun, try presenting the skewers family-style on a large platter with piles of tzatziki and accompaniments nearby. Or, build Mediterranean wraps with pita, chicken, sauce, and all your favorite veggies—perfect for casual dinners and parties alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce can be stored in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the chicken and tzatziki apart to maintain the best texture and flavor when you’re ready for round two.
Freezing
While the marinated, uncooked chicken freezes well for up to 2 months, it’s best to avoid freezing the tzatziki sauce as yogurt-based sauces can change texture. Freeze extra chicken in portions and whip up fresh sauce when you’re ready to enjoy.
Reheating
Reheat leftover chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat or in a 350°F (175°C) oven until just warmed through. Avoid microwaving for too long to prevent the chicken from drying out. Serve with chilled tzatziki for that irresistible hot-and-cold experience.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs tend to be even juicier and are more forgiving on the grill. Either cut will create authentic, delicious Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce.
What can I substitute for red wine vinegar?
If you don’t have red wine vinegar on hand, white wine vinegar or even a splash of apple cider vinegar is a great swap. Stick with the same amount, and your marinade will still be tangy and bright.
How do I keep my chicken from sticking to the grill?
Make sure your grill or grill pan is well-preheated and lightly oil the grates before adding the skewers. The olive oil in the marinade also helps prevent sticking—just avoid moving the chicken too soon so you get those perfect grill marks.
Is there a dairy-free option for the tzatziki?
Yes! Just use a thick, unsweetened plant-based yogurt instead of Greek yogurt. The result is an excellent dairy-free version of Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce, with all the classic flavors intact.
Can I make these without a grill?
Certainly! These skewers cook up beautifully using a grill pan or even under an oven broiler. The important thing is high heat to get that gorgeous sear and flavor—it’ll taste fantastic either way.
Final Thoughts
I hope you get a chance to gather your favorite people and treat them to Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce. This dish truly captures the sunshine and excitement of Greek cooking, and every bite is a little escape to a Mediterranean island! Give it a try and make your next meal something to savor.
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Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 32 minutes (active)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers are marinated in a flavorful blend of lemon, garlic, and herbs, then grilled to perfection. Serve them with a creamy tzatziki sauce for a delicious Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- wooden skewers soaked in water (if using)
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup grated cucumber (squeeze out excess liquid)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice and zest, garlic, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce: Mix together the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, garlic, dill, salt, and pepper. Chill until ready to serve.
- Grill the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. Grill for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked.
- Serve: Serve the chicken skewers warm with tzatziki sauce on the side.
Notes
- These skewers pair well with pita bread, rice, or a Greek salad.
- For a dairy-free option, use plant-based yogurt for the tzatziki sauce.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skewers with sauce
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 490 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 36 g
- Cholesterol: 105 mg
