Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce
Highlighted under: Global Flavors
Experience the vibrant flavors of Greece with this easy-to-make Greek Chicken Souvlaki served with a refreshing Tzatziki sauce.
Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a delightful dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Marinated in a blend of spices, this succulent chicken is skewered and grilled to perfection, making it a perfect option for any gathering. Pair it with homemade Tzatziki sauce for a refreshing kick!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Juicy chicken bursting with Mediterranean flavors
- Creamy and tangy Tzatziki sauce complements the skewers perfectly
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
The Essence of Greek Cuisine
Greek cuisine is celebrated for its bold flavors and fresh ingredients. At the heart of many dishes are olive oil, lemon, and garlic, which not only enhance taste but also promote health. By preparing Greek Chicken Souvlaki at home, you’re not just making a meal; you’re embracing a culinary tradition that emphasizes simplicity and quality.
Souvlaki, a popular street food in Greece, consists of skewered and grilled meat, and it’s often served with various dips and salads. This dish is deeply rooted in the Mediterranean diet, which is recognized for its numerous health benefits, including heart health and longevity.
Perfect Pairing: Tzatziki Sauce
The creamy and tangy Tzatziki sauce is a quintessential companion to Greek Chicken Souvlaki. Made primarily from Greek yogurt, it not only adds a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken but also boosts the dish’s nutritional value. Yogurt is rich in probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health.
The addition of grated cucumber not only enhances the texture but also contributes hydration, making it a perfect summer dip. Whether you’re enjoying this dish at a gathering or a quiet dinner at home, Tzatziki elevates the entire experience, making every bite a delight.
Cooking Tips for the Best Souvlaki
To achieve the juiciest chicken souvlaki, marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes is crucial. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, making it tender and flavorful. For an extra kick, consider adding spices such as paprika or cumin to the marinade for a unique twist.
When grilling, ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat. This step is vital for getting those beautiful char marks while sealing in the juices. If you’re using wooden skewers, soaking them for at least 30 minutes prior prevents them from burning on the grill.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Chicken Souvlaki
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water
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 to taste
- Fresh dill (optional), chopped
Make sure to soak the skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
Instructions
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce
In another bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt. Mix well and add fresh dill if desired. Refrigerate until serving.
Assemble the Souvlaki
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Thread marinated chicken onto the soaked skewers.
Grill the Chicken
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
Serve
Remove the skewers from the grill and serve hot with Tzatziki sauce on the side.
Enjoy your delicious Greek Chicken Souvlaki with a side of fresh salad or pita bread!
Serving Suggestions
Greek Chicken Souvlaki is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. For a traditional meal, serve it with warm pita bread, fresh salads, and an array of sides like roasted vegetables or Greek rice. This not only creates a balanced meal but enhances the overall flavor experience.
For a lighter option, consider serving the chicken over a bed of mixed greens, topped with diced tomatoes, red onions, and olives. Drizzle with olive oil and a splash of lemon juice for a refreshing salad that complements the grilled chicken perfectly.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store the chicken souvlaki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The Tzatziki sauce can also be kept for about the same time, making it easy to enjoy this dish throughout the week.
To reheat, simply use a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or pop it in the microwave for a quick meal. For the best texture, avoid reheating the Tzatziki sauce; instead, serve it fresh alongside the warmed chicken.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other meats for souvlaki?
Yes, you can use pork, beef, or lamb as alternatives to chicken.
→ How long can I marinate the chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.
→ Is Tzatziki sauce healthy?
Yes, Tzatziki sauce is low in calories and packed with protein from yogurt.
→ Can I make the Tzatziki sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! Tzatziki sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce
Experience the vibrant flavors of Greece with this easy-to-make Greek Chicken Souvlaki served with a refreshing Tzatziki sauce.
Created by: Isabella Clark
Recipe Type: Global Flavors
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken Souvlaki
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water
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 to taste
- Fresh dill (optional), chopped
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
In another bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt. Mix well and add fresh dill if desired. Refrigerate until serving.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Thread marinated chicken onto the soaked skewers.
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
Remove the skewers from the grill and serve hot with Tzatziki sauce on the side.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 30g