Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce is a dish that will transport your taste buds straight to the sun-kissed shores of Greece. Imagine succulent chunks of marinated chicken, kissed by the citrusy brightness of lemon and the fragrant warmth of herbs, sizzling over an open flame. Chicken Avocado Burgers These skewers deliver a burst of flavor that even Zeus would approve of—perfectly charred on the outside and juicy within, they are best enjoyed during summer barbecues or cozy family gatherings.
Now, pair those delicious skewers with a creamy tzatziki sauce that cools and complements each bite. This dish isn’t just about eating; it’s about creating memories around the grill, sharing laughter with friends, and savoring every juicy morsel. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a lively backyard party, Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce will elevate any occasion to epic status—and you’ll be hailed as the culinary hero! For more inspiration, check out this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This amazing Greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Ingredients for Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts, cut into cubes for easy skewering.
-
Fresh Lemons: You’ll need both juice and zest for maximum lemony goodness—fresh lemons are key!
-
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness to the marinade.
-
Dried Oregano: This herb brings that classic Mediterranean flavor we all crave.
-
Garlic Cloves: Fresh minced garlic packs a punch and elevates the dish’s flavor profile.
For the Sauce:
-
Greek Yogurt: The star of tzatziki! Use full-fat yogurt for creaminess and tang.
-
Cucumber: Grate it to add freshness and crunch—just make sure to squeeze out excess moisture!
-
Dill: Fresh dill adds an aromatic touch that makes this sauce sing.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add your chicken cubes into this zesty marinade and let them soak up all those flavors for at least an hour—or overnight if you want to be extra fancy!
Step 2: Prepare Your Skewers
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes so they don’t catch fire on the grill. Metal skewers? You’re good to go! Thread the marinated chicken onto your skewers—about four or five pieces per skewer works nicely.
Step 3: Grill Time
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F or 200°C). Once hot, lay down those skewers like they’re stepping onto a red carpet! Grill each side for about 5-7 minutes until they’re cooked through and slightly charred—this is where flavor magic happens!
Step 4: Whip Up Tzatziki
While your skewers are grilling away, combine grated cucumber (squeezed dry), Greek yogurt, minced garlic, fresh dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Stir until everything is well mixed—a perfect dip awaits! For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Lobster Tail recipe.
Step 5: Serve It Up
Once your chicken is beautifully grilled and ready to shine, serve it alongside a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce. Add some warm pita bread or fresh veggies on the side if you’re feeling extra generous.
Step 6: Enjoy!
Transfer everything to plates and watch as everyone dives into this feast! With every bite of Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers paired with tzatziki sauce, you’re bound to hear happy sighs echoing across your dining space.
Now you’ve got all you need to create mouthwatering Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce! Grab your apron and get ready for sunny flavors that will turn any meal into an enchanting Mediterranean escape.
You Must Know
- This amazing Greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating your chicken to infuse those mouth-watering flavors. After that, skewer the chicken and grill until golden brown. While the chicken cooks, whip up that refreshing tzatziki sauce. Trust me, this sequence maximizes taste and efficiency.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ingredients! Try using honey instead of sugar for sweetness or add bell peppers and red onions to your skewers for extra crunch. You can even spice things up with some chili flakes if you’re feeling adventurous!
Storing & Reheating
To store, place leftover Greek lemon chicken skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, pop them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring they stay juicy and flavorful.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To prevent dry chicken, always marinate for at least two hours—overnight is even better!
- Use flat metal skewers to keep everything securely in place while grilling.
- Lastly, let the skewers rest before serving; this allows juices to redistribute for maximum flavor.
Sometimes, I find myself reminiscing about that unforgettable backyard barbecue where everyone raved about my Greek lemon chicken skewers—who knew I could become a grill master overnight?
FAQs:
What are Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce?
Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce are a delicious and flavorful dish that combines marinated chicken, grilled to perfection, served with a creamy yogurt-based sauce. The chicken is typically marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs, which infuses it with vibrant Mediterranean flavors. Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken The accompanying tzatziki sauce, made from yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill, adds a refreshing touch and complements the skewers beautifully. This dish is perfect for summer barbecues or as a healthy dinner option.
How do I make the best tzatziki sauce?
To make the best tzatziki sauce for your Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers, start with high-quality Greek yogurt as your base. Grate fresh cucumber and squeeze out excess moisture to avoid a watery sauce. Combine the cucumber with yogurt, minced garlic, chopped fresh dill or mint, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Can I use other meats for skewers?
Absolutely! While Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers are delicious with chicken breast or thighs, you can easily substitute other meats like pork or lamb for variation. Marinate the meat in the same lemon-herb mixture for consistent flavor. Alternatively, you can even use firm tofu or vegetables for a vegetarian option. Just ensure that cooking times vary based on the type of protein used to achieve optimal doneness.
How should I serve Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers?
Serve Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers hot off the grill alongside tzatziki sauce for dipping. You can complement this dish with traditional sides like pita bread, Greek salad, or roasted vegetables to create a complete meal. For an authentic touch, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill. These skewers also make excellent appetizers for gatherings and parties when served on platters with colorful garnishes.
Conclusion for Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce:
Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce offer a delightful blend of flavors that transport you straight to the Mediterranean. With simple ingredients and easy preparation methods, this dish becomes a favorite at any gathering or family dinner. The zesty marinade enhances the chicken’s taste while the cool tzatziki provides a perfect balance. Mexican Chicken and Rice Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking indoors, these skewers promise a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Enjoy this delicious recipe any time you crave something fresh and flavorful!
Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x
Description
Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce are a delightful fusion of zesty flavors and tender grilled chicken, perfectly complemented by a creamy yogurt sauce. Ideal for summer barbecues or family gatherings, these skewers are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a memorable dish that transports your taste buds to the Mediterranean.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs), cut into cubes
- Zest and juice of 2 fresh lemons
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup full-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 medium cucumber, grated and excess moisture squeezed out
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Add chicken cubes and marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers (4-5 pieces per skewer).
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400°F). Grill skewers for about 5-7 minutes on each side until cooked through.
- In a bowl, mix grated cucumber, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, chopped dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined. Chill until ready to serve.
- Enjoy skewers hot off the grill with tzatziki sauce on the side.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Entree
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer with tzatziki sauce (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
