Name: Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce
Prep time: PT-483811H19M13S
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 57 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cubed; 3 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp lemon zest; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; Wooden or metal skewers; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1/2 cucumber, grated and moisture squeezed out; 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped; 1 tbsp fresh mint, chopped; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 tsp salt

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce offer the perfect combination of bold Mediterranean flavors, tender and juicy grilled chicken, and a refreshing yogurt-based sauce. The citrusy marinade infused with garlic and herbs ensures every bite is bursting with flavor. This dish is ideal for weeknight dinners, backyard barbecues, or meal prep, as it pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or warm pita bread.

Ingredients

Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
Olive oil
Lemon juice
Lemon zest
Garlic cloves
Dried oregano
Dried thyme
Salt
Black pepper
Wooden or metal skewers
Greek yogurt
Cucumber
Fresh dill
Fresh mint
Garlic
Lemon juice
Olive oil
Salt

Directions

Preparing the Chicken Skewers

Cut the chicken into bite-sized cubes and place them in a large mixing bowl.
In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
Pour the marinade over the chicken and toss until all pieces are well coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop. For best results, marinate for 2-4 hours.
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece for even cooking.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
Grill the skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char on the edges.
Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Preparing the Tzatziki Sauce

Grate the cucumber and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel.
In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, chopped fresh dill, chopped fresh mint, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt.
Stir well to combine and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve chilled alongside the chicken skewers.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a bit of heat.
Different Proteins: Swap the chicken for lamb, beef, or shrimp while keeping the same marinade.
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free yogurt for the tzatziki sauce.
Herb Variations: Substitute basil or parsley for dill and mint in the tzatziki for a different twist.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes to 4 hours
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 57 minutes (minimum)
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat on a grill or in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, or microwave in short bursts until warmed through.
Tzatziki Sauce: Keep in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir before serving.

FAQs

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but 2-4 hours is best. You can also marinate overnight for deeper flavor.

Can I bake the skewers instead of grilling?

Yes! Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful than breasts.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to cook.

What can I serve with these skewers?

These skewers pair well with Greek salad, hummus, warm pita, or roasted vegetables.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Yes, freeze the chicken in the marinade for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before grilling.

How do I prevent wooden skewers from burning?

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs for the tzatziki sauce?

You can use dried herbs, but fresh ones provide the best flavor.

Can I use store-bought tzatziki?

Yes, but homemade tzatziki has a fresher taste and allows you to control the ingredients.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you check that all ingredients used are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce bring Mediterranean flavors to your kitchen with their zesty, garlicky marinade and creamy, herbaceous dip. This dish is easy to make, versatile, and perfect for any occasion. Whether grilled for a barbecue or baked in the oven, these skewers will impress with their delicious taste and tender texture. Try this recipe today and enjoy a taste of Greece at home!

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