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Delicious Chicken Souvlaki skewers with homemade tzatziki sauce and fresh ingredients

Chicken Souvlaki

Juicy grilled or pan-cooked chicken marinated in bold Greek flavors, served with a refreshing homemade tzatziki sauce.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 42 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Greek
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil For marinating the chicken.
  • 1 large lemon (juice and zest) Adds brightness to the marinade.
  • 3-4 cloves garlic, minced Provides strong flavor.
  • 1.5 teaspoons dried oregano Essential for authentic Greek taste.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Enhances flavor.
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper Adds mild heat.
  • 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar (optional) For extra tang.
For the Tzatziki Sauce
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt Base of the tzatziki.
  • 1 medium cucumber, grated Adds freshness.
  • 1 clove garlic, minced Flavor enhancer.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice For flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Smoothens the sauce.
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt To taste.
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper To taste.
  • 1-2 tablespoons fresh dill or mint, chopped Optional, for added flavor.
For Serving
  • 4 pieces pita bread For wrapping the chicken.
  • 1 medium tomato, sliced Fresh topping.
  • 1 small onion, sliced Adds crunch.
  • 1 cup Greek salad (optional) For a side dish.
  • 2 cups roasted potatoes or fries (optional) Great side option.

Method
 

Marinating the Chicken
  1. In a bowl or zip bag, combine olive oil, lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and red wine vinegar (if using).
  2. Add chicken chunks and toss until coated.
  3. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 6 hours for best results.
Making the Tzatziki Sauce
  1. Grate cucumber and squeeze out excess moisture with a clean towel.
  2. In a bowl, stir together Greek yogurt and grated cucumber.
  3. Add minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and chopped dill or mint.
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  5. Let it chill for 15 to 30 minutes for the best flavor.
Cooking the Chicken
  1. Preheat the grill or skillet to medium-high heat.
  2. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving space between pieces.
  3. Cook skewers for 8 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
  4. Let the chicken rest for 3 to 5 minutes before serving.
Serving
  1. Serve chicken souvlaki with warm pita, tzatziki, sliced tomatoes, and onions.
  2. Add Greek salad or roasted potatoes on the side.

Notes

For juicier chicken, use thighs instead of breasts and do not crowd the skewers. Watch the cooking time closely.