Description
This Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki recipe features tender marinated chicken cubes grilled to perfection on skewers, paired with a refreshing cucumber and yogurt-based tzatziki sauce. It’s a flavorful and healthy Mediterranean dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Souvlaki:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes, if using)
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, grated and excess water squeezed out
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the bite-sized chicken cubes and toss thoroughly to coat. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes up to 4 hours to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat to ensure a perfect sear and cooking temperature for the chicken skewers.
- Thread the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and thread the pieces evenly onto the soaked wooden skewers, ensuring they are secure for grilling.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until the chicken is fully cooked through and has a golden-brown exterior. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skewers and set aside.
- Make the Tzatziki Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (with excess water squeezed out), olive oil, chopped fresh dill, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Plate the grilled chicken souvlaki alongside a generous serving of tzatziki sauce and garnish with fresh parsley for an added touch of color and flavor.
Notes
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Marinating the chicken longer (up to 4 hours) enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Use a grill pan if outdoor grilling is not available.
- Ensure cucumber is well-squeezed to prevent watery tzatziki sauce.
- Serve with warm pita bread or a fresh Greek salad for a complete meal.
