Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce

These Greek lemon chicken skewers with tzatziki sauce are bursting with Mediterranean flavor. Perfect for gatherings or a delightful weeknight dinner, these skewers are not only easy to prepare but also provide a refreshing and vibrant taste. The combination of marinated chicken grilled to perfection and the creamy tzatziki sauce makes this recipe a standout choice. Enjoy them as an appetizer or main dish that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up these skewers in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The marinade infuses the chicken with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, creating a deliciously bold taste.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Serve them at barbecues, family dinners, or as party appetizers; they’re always a hit!
• Refreshing Tzatziki Sauce: The cool cucumber and yogurt sauce perfectly complement the warm, grilled chicken.
• Healthier Option: Light yet satisfying, these skewers fit well into a balanced diet while still feeling indulgent.

Tools and Preparation

To make Greek lemon chicken skewers with tzatziki sauce, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skewers (wooden or metal)
• Mixing bowls
• Grill or grill pan
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Grater

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: Essential for grilling the chicken evenly and keeping the pieces together.
• Mixing Bowls: Help in thoroughly combining the marinade for maximum flavor infusion.
• Grill: Provides that perfect char and smoky flavor to the chicken that enhances its taste.

Ingredients

These Greek lemon chicken skewers are bursting with Mediterranean flavor. Tender, marinated chicken grilled to perfection and served with a creamy, refreshing tzatziki sauce makes this a perfect light meal or appetizer.

For the Chicken Skewers

• 1 1/4 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimmed
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons plain yogurt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, minced (or 1 1/2 teaspoons dried)
• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (plus more for grilling)
• 2 lemons, thinly sliced

For the Tzatziki Sauce

• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 cucumber, peeled and grated

How to Make Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce

Step 1: Soak the Skewers

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl:
1. Mix salt, yogurt, garlic, oregano, pepper, lemon juice, and olive oil.
2. Add chicken pieces and coat well.
3. Marinate in the fridge for 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Step 3: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

For the tzatziki:
1. Squeeze excess water from grated cucumber.
2. Mix cucumber with yogurt, garlic, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
3. Chill until ready to serve.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

Step 5: Assemble the Skewers

Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, alternating with thin slices of lemon.

Step 6: Grill the Skewers

Brush your grill with oil:
1. Place skewers on the grill.
2. Grill for 5–7 minutes per side until chicken is cooked through.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot with chilled tzatziki sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your flavorful Greek lemon chicken skewers!

How to Serve Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce

These Greek lemon chicken skewers are not just a delight on their own; they can be enhanced with various serving suggestions that complement their zesty flavor. Here are some creative ways to serve them.

With Fresh Salad

• Greek Salad – Toss together fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and feta cheese for a refreshing side.
• Tabbouleh – A vibrant parsley and bulgur salad adds a refreshing crunch and pairs beautifully with the skewers.

On Pita Bread

• Pita Wraps – Serve the skewers wrapped in warm pita bread with additional tzatziki for extra flavor.
• Open-Faced Pitas – Layer the skewers on top of toasted pitas with veggies and drizzle with tzatziki sauce.

Accompanied by Grains

• Quinoa Pilaf – A light, herbed quinoa dish makes a nutritious base for your skewers.
• Couscous – Fluffy couscous seasoned with lemon zest enhances the Mediterranean flair of this dish.

How to Perfect Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce

Creating the perfect Greek lemon chicken skewers requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your dish is a success.

• Marinate Longer – Allowing the chicken to marinate for up to an hour deepens the flavors.
• Use Fresh Herbs – Fresh oregano gives a more intense flavor compared to dried herbs.
• Preheat the Grill – Ensuring your grill is hot helps achieve nice char marks and keeps the chicken juicy.
• Check Internal Temperature – Cook chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
• Let It Rest – Allow skewers to rest for a few minutes before serving; this keeps them juicy.
• Serve Chilled Tzatziki – Make sure your tzatziki is well-chilled; it enhances the overall refreshment of the dish.

Best Side Dishes for Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce

Pairing side dishes with Greek lemon chicken skewers can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement their flavors.

1. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant add color and nutrients when grilled alongside.
2. Rice Pilaf – A fragrant rice pilaf, infused with herbs and spices, makes a hearty side that balances the meal.
3. Roasted Potatoes – Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with garlic and rosemary provide a comforting texture contrast.
4. Hummus Platter – A colorful array of hummus served with veggies or pita chips brings additional flavors to your table.
5. Stuffed Grape Leaves – These tangy bites filled with rice and herbs offer an authentic Mediterranean touch.
6. Olive Tapenade – A spread of finely chopped olives mixed with capers adds a salty kick and pairs wonderfully with chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Boldly skip marinating: Not marinating the chicken enough can lead to bland skewers. Aim for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor.
• Boldly ignore skewer preparation: Failing to soak wooden skewers may cause them to burn on the grill. Soak them in water for 30 minutes beforehand.
• Boldly overcrowd the skewers: Packing the chicken too tightly can hinder even cooking. Leave space between pieces for proper heat circulation.
• Boldly overlook grill temperature: Grilling at too low a temperature can result in dry chicken. Preheat your grill to medium-high for juicy results.
• Boldly skip cucumber prep: Not squeezing out excess water from the cucumber can make tzatziki watery. Always drain well before mixing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce in an airtight container.
• They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Freezing Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce

• Place cooled skewers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat skewers for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place skewers on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other meats for Greek lemon chicken skewers?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey, beef, or lamb. Adjust marinating times accordingly based on meat thickness.

How do I make a vegetarian version of tzatziki sauce?

To make a vegetarian tzatziki, simply replace yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative and follow the same preparation steps.

What side dishes pair well with Greek lemon chicken skewers?

Serve these skewers with a fresh Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or pita bread for a complete meal.

Can I prepare Greek lemon chicken skewers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken the night before and assemble the skewers just before grilling.

How do I store leftover tzatziki sauce?

Store leftover tzatziki sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Stir well before serving again.

Final Thoughts

These Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce are a delightful blend of flavors that will impress your guests or satisfy your cravings. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it by adding different vegetables or spices to suit your taste. Enjoy this refreshing dish at your next gathering!