Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce

Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce are a fresh, flavorful, and healthy dish perfect for grilling season or a year-round Mediterranean-inspired meal. Marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and olive oil, the chicken is grilled to juicy perfection and served with a cool, creamy tzatziki made from Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill. This dish is simple yet vibrant, offering a burst of sunshine in every bite.

Whether you’re entertaining guests or looking for a protein-packed meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, these skewers are a standout option. The marinade infuses the chicken with a bold, citrusy punch that pairs beautifully with the herbed yogurt sauce. Tzatziki acts as both a dip and a cooling counterpoint to the charred edges of the grilled meat. Served on skewers, it’s great for parties, BBQs, or even quick weeknight dinners. The best part? It’s easy to prep ahead, and both the chicken and tzatziki store well for leftovers. Fresh, clean, and satisfying, this dish will quickly earn a spot in your regular rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Bursting with Mediterranean Flavor – Fresh lemon, garlic, and herbs create a bright and authentic Greek taste.
2. Healthy and High-Protein – Lean chicken and Greek yogurt make this a nutritious and balanced dish.
3. Great for Grilling or Baking – Versatile enough to prepare on the grill or in the oven year-round.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly – Both the marinade and tzatziki can be prepped in advance for easy meals later.
5. Crowd-Pleasing and Fun to Eat – Perfect for entertaining, serving at gatherings, or family dinners.

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
• Olive oil
• Fresh lemon juice
• Garlic
• Dried oregano
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Wooden or metal skewers
• Greek yogurt
• Cucumber
• Fresh dill
• Red wine vinegar or lemon juice (for tzatziki)

Variations

• Add Vegetables to Skewers: Thread bell peppers, red onions, or zucchini alongside the chicken.
• Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or a bit of harissa to the marinade for a kick.
• Herb Swap: Use fresh oregano or parsley in the marinade or sauce for extra vibrancy.
• Vegan Option: Substitute chicken with marinated tofu or mushrooms and use a dairy-free yogurt for tzatziki.
• Wrap It Up: Serve the skewers and tzatziki in warm pita with lettuce, tomatoes, and olives for a Greek-style wrap.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Cut chicken into bite-sized chunks. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight).

Step 2: Make the Tzatziki Sauce

Grate the cucumber, then squeeze out excess moisture with a towel. Mix with Greek yogurt, minced garlic, chopped dill, and a splash of vinegar or lemon juice. Season with salt and chill until ready to serve.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.

Step 4: Cook the Skewers

Grill on medium-high heat for about 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice char marks. Alternatively, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15–20 minutes.

Step 5: Serve

Serve skewers hot with a side of tzatziki, garnished with extra dill and lemon wedges.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
• Don’t skip marinating—it’s key to tender, flavorful chicken.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Let the tzatziki chill for at least 30 minutes for flavors to meld.
• Grate cucumber finely and drain thoroughly to avoid watery sauce.

How to Serve

Serve these skewers with tzatziki as a dip, alongside rice pilaf, roasted potatoes, or a Greek salad. They also work beautifully in a pita wrap with fresh veggies and feta cheese. For a low-carb meal, pair with grilled vegetables or cauliflower rice.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep cooked chicken and tzatziki in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Chicken can be frozen before or after cooking. Freeze raw marinated chicken in a freezer bag, or freeze cooked chicken skewers. Tzatziki is best fresh and not recommended for freezing.

Reheating

Reheat chicken in a skillet or oven until warm. Avoid microwaving to keep the texture tender. Tzatziki should be served cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Thighs are juicier and work very well for grilling.

2. How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 30 minutes, but 2–4 hours or overnight is best for full flavor.

3. Can I make the tzatziki sauce ahead of time?

Yes, it tastes even better after chilling for a few hours.

4. What type of yogurt should I use?

Full-fat Greek yogurt gives the creamiest texture and best flavor.

5. Can I grill the skewers indoors?

Yes, use a grill pan or broil them in the oven.

6. Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s low in carbs and high in protein.

7. Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is preferred for the brightest flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch.

8. What herbs pair well with this dish?

Dill, oregano, parsley, and mint all complement the Greek flavors.

9. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, use a plant-based yogurt for the tzatziki.

10. Do I need to peel the cucumber for tzatziki?

Peeling is optional, but it helps create a smoother texture.

Conclusion

Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce are a light, flavorful, and satisfying meal that brings a taste of the Mediterranean right to your table. With minimal ingredients and straightforward prep, this dish delivers bold, herby flavor and juicy grilled chicken every time. Paired with the refreshing tzatziki sauce, it’s a perfect recipe for gatherings, meal prep, or a quick and healthy dinner. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a go-to favorite for so many.

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