Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Experience the vibrant flavors of Greece with this delicious Greek Chicken Souvlaki paired with a refreshing tzatziki sauce. Perfect for summer grilling or a quick weeknight dinner!

Bethany Clarke

Created by

Bethany Clarke

Last updated on 2025-12-21T08:11:07.360Z

Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a beloved dish that brings the taste of the Mediterranean to your table. The succulent marinated chicken skewers are bursting with flavor, and when paired with creamy tzatziki sauce, it creates an unforgettable meal.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Juicy chicken marinated in a blend of aromatic herbs and spices
  • Creamy tzatziki sauce adds a perfect cooling contrast
  • Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for any occasion

The Essence of Greek Cuisine

Greek cuisine is celebrated for its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, making it a favorite among food lovers worldwide. At the heart of this culinary tradition are dishes like souvlaki, which showcase the art of grilling. With simple yet flavorful marinades, grilled meats become succulent and aromatic. This Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe pays homage to these roots, offering a delightful way to enjoy traditional Greek flavors at home.

The use of olive oil, lemon juice, and aromatic herbs like oregano not only enhances the taste of the chicken but also reflects the Mediterranean lifestyle that emphasizes healthy eating. When paired with a creamy tzatziki sauce, the dish achieves a perfect balance between richness and freshness, making it a must-try for anyone looking to explore the joys of Greek cooking.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a weeknight dinner, or looking for a dish to impress your guests, Greek Chicken Souvlaki fits the bill. Its versatility allows it to be served as an appetizer, main course, or even in a wrap with fresh veggies. This adaptability makes it a go-to recipe for family gatherings, parties, or casual weeknight meals.

Additionally, the quick preparation and grilling time make it an ideal choice for busy individuals or families. With just a few simple steps, you can have a flavorful meal ready in under 30 minutes. This ease of preparation is what makes this dish not only delicious but also practical for everyday cooking.

Health Benefits of Souvlaki and Tzatziki

The combination of grilled chicken and tzatziki sauce not only tantalizes the taste buds but also offers numerous health benefits. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle building and repair, while the olive oil used in the marinade provides healthy fats that promote heart health. Additionally, the inclusion of fresh herbs boosts the nutritional profile, adding antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

On the other hand, tzatziki sauce, made with Greek yogurt and cucumber, is rich in probiotics which support digestive health. The yogurt is also a good source of calcium and protein, making this sauce not only delicious but also a nutritious accompaniment to your meal. This Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki is a wholesome choice for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful dish without compromising on health.

Ingredients

For the Souvlaki

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Wooden skewers (soaked in water)

For the Tzatziki Sauce

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 cucumber, grated and drained
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • Salt to taste

Combine the ingredients and prepare for the grilling!

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Make the Tzatziki Sauce

In a separate bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, dill, and salt. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Skewer the Chicken

Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked skewers. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

Grill the Souvlaki

Grill the chicken skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and slightly charred.

Serve

Remove the skewers from the grill and serve with the tzatziki sauce on the side. Enjoy your delicious Greek Chicken Souvlaki!

Delight in this authentic Greek dish!

Tips for the Perfect Souvlaki

To achieve the most flavorful Greek Chicken Souvlaki, marinating the chicken for at least 15 minutes is essential, but for even better results, consider marinating it for a few hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply, resulting in juicier and more flavorful skewers. Additionally, using fresh herbs will enhance the overall taste, so opt for fresh oregano when available.

When grilling, ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat to get that perfect char without drying out the chicken. Turning the skewers occasionally will help cook the chicken evenly and allow those delicious grill marks to develop.

Serving Suggestions

Greek Chicken Souvlaki is incredibly versatile, and there are many delicious ways to serve it. Consider pairing the skewers with a side of warm pita bread for a traditional touch. You can also serve it alongside a Greek salad made with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese for a complete meal bursting with flavor.

For a lighter option, serve the chicken over a bed of greens with a drizzle of extra olive oil and a squeeze of lemon. This not only enhances the dish but also adds a refreshing touch, making it perfect for warm summer days.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, storing them properly is key to maintaining their flavor and texture. Allow the chicken skewers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, consider using the oven or a grill pan to preserve the juiciness of the chicken, as microwaving may result in a rubbery texture.

The tzatziki sauce can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving, as the ingredients may separate over time. This makes it easy to enjoy the deliciousness of Greek Chicken Souvlaki even on busy days!

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other meats for souvlaki?

Yes, you can use pork, beef, or lamb as alternatives to chicken.

→ Can the tzatziki sauce be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! It can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

→ What can I serve with Greek chicken souvlaki?

Serve with rice, salads, or in a wrap with fresh vegetables.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, the chicken and tzatziki sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for a quick meal throughout the week.

Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce

Experience the vibrant flavors of Greece with this delicious Greek Chicken Souvlaki paired with a refreshing tzatziki sauce. Perfect for summer grilling or a quick weeknight dinner!

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration15 minutes
Overall Time35 minutes

Created by: Bethany Clarke

Recipe Type: Global Flavors

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Souvlaki

  1. 1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes
  2. 3 tablespoons olive oil
  3. 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  4. 3 cloves garlic, minced
  5. 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  6. Salt and pepper to taste
  7. Wooden skewers (soaked in water)

For the Tzatziki Sauce

  1. 1 cup Greek yogurt
  2. 1 cucumber, grated and drained
  3. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  4. 1 tablespoon olive oil
  5. 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  6. Salt to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Step 02

In a separate bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, dill, and salt. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 03

Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked skewers. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

Step 04

Grill the chicken skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and slightly charred.

Step 05

Remove the skewers from the grill and serve with the tzatziki sauce on the side. Enjoy your delicious Greek Chicken Souvlaki!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 300 kcal
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Protein: 30g