Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce

Name: Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into cubes; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Skewers (wooden or metal); 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 cucumber, grated and drained; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh dill for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Enjoy a taste of Greece with this flavorful Greek Chicken Souvlaki paired with a refreshing Tzatziki Sauce. Perfect for summer grilling or a quick weeknight dinner!

Created by

Sabrina Holt

Last updated on 2025-12-21T01:15:55.253Z

This Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your table. Tender marinated chicken skewers are grilled to perfection and served with a cool and creamy yogurt-based sauce. Perfect for sharing with family and friends!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy chicken with a burst of Mediterranean flavors
Creamy and refreshing Tzatziki sauce adds the perfect balance
Great for gatherings or a simple weeknight meal

      

A Taste of Greece

Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a beloved dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. The combination of marinated chicken, fresh herbs, and grilled perfection makes it a staple in Greek households. When paired with a cooling Tzatziki sauce, the flavors harmonize beautifully, creating a dish that is both satisfying and refreshing. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.

The origins of souvlaki date back to ancient Greece, where skewered meats were a popular street food. Today, it remains a favorite across the globe, enjoyed for its simplicity and vibrant flavors. By marinating the chicken with olive oil, lemon, and herbs, you infuse it with a delightful taste that captures the spirit of Greek culinary traditions.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Greek Chicken Souvlaki is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for various occasions. Whether you’re having a casual get-together, a festive family dinner, or a picnic in the park, these skewers will be a hit. They can be served as a main dish or used as part of a larger spread with salads, dips, and sides.

Additionally, the chicken can be easily customized to accommodate different dietary preferences. For instance, you can substitute chicken with tofu or vegetables for a vegetarian version. This adaptability ensures that everyone at your gathering can enjoy a delicious meal.

Cooking Tips for the Best Souvlaki

To achieve the juiciest and most flavorful chicken souvlaki, marinating the meat for at least 30 minutes is essential, but for optimal results, consider marinating overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in tender and delicious skewers. Be mindful not to overcrowd the skewers, as this can prevent even cooking and browning.

When grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat to ensure a lovely char on the chicken. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. Keep an eye on the chicken while it cooks, turning occasionally to achieve a golden brown on all sides.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Souvlaki

1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into cubes
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Skewers (wooden or metal)

For the Tzatziki Sauce

1 cup Greek yogurt
1 cucumber, grated and drained
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh dill for garnish

Mix all the ingredients well and let them marinate for optimal flavor!

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add chicken cubes and toss to coat. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

In a separate bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Set aside in the fridge to chill.

Skewer the Chicken

Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers. Preheat your grill over medium-high heat.

Grill the Skewers

Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through.

Serve

Remove the chicken from the grill and serve hot with the Tzatziki sauce and your choice of sides.

Enjoy your homemade Greek Chicken Souvlaki!

Serving Suggestions

Greek Chicken Souvlaki is best served hot off the grill, accompanied by the creamy Tzatziki sauce. Consider pairing it with warm pita bread for a delightful wrap, or serve it alongside a fresh Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese. This combination enhances the Mediterranean experience and adds a variety of textures and flavors to your meal.

For a complete feast, add some roasted vegetables or a side of lemon rice. The citrus notes in the rice complement the chicken beautifully, while the roasted vegetables add a healthy and colorful element to your plate.

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover chicken souvlaki, don't worry! The grilled chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it gently in a skillet or microwave to enjoy it again. You can also chop the chicken and use it in salads, wraps, or grain bowls for a quick and delicious meal.

The Tzatziki sauce can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Its flavors may even intensify as it sits, making it an excellent dip for vegetables or a spread for sandwiches.

Variations to Try

While the classic chicken souvlaki is a favorite, feel free to experiment with different proteins. Lamb and pork are traditional alternatives in Greek cuisine, both offering unique flavors that work wonderfully with the marinade. For a vegetarian option, try marinating and grilling hearty vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms for a colorful and tasty dish.

You can also try adding different spices to the marinade, such as cumin or paprika, for a twist on the traditional flavor profile. Each variation brings a new dimension to this classic dish, allowing you to enjoy it in different ways.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with pork, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ How long can I marinate the chicken?

You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.

→ What sides pair well with Souvlaki?

Greek salad, pita bread, or roasted vegetables make excellent sides.

→ Can I prepare the Tzatziki sauce in advance?

Absolutely! Tzatziki sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.