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 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Wooden skewers, soaked in water; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 cucumber, grated and drained; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt to taste; Fresh dill, chopped (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Experience the flavors of Greece with this delicious chicken souvlaki and creamy tzatziki sauce. Perfect for grilling season!

Created by

Ainsley Harper

Last updated on 2025-12-21T01:26:01.136Z

This Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean straight to your kitchen. Marinated in a blend of herbs and spices, the chicken is grilled to perfection and served with a refreshing tzatziki sauce that enhances every bite.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy, marinated chicken bursting with flavor
Creamy tzatziki sauce that complements the dish perfectly
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion

      

The Perfect Summer Dish

As the weather warms up and the sun shines brighter, nothing beats the joy of grilling outdoors. Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a quintessential summer dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean right to your backyard. The marinated chicken is grilled to perfection, providing a juicy and satisfying bite that is complemented beautifully by the cool, creamy tzatziki sauce. This dish is not only delicious but also a great way to enjoy fresh ingredients during the grilling season.

Souvlaki, a popular street food in Greece, is typically made with skewered and grilled meat. While traditionally made with pork or lamb, chicken is a leaner and equally flavorful choice. By marinating the chicken in a blend of olive oil, garlic, and aromatic herbs, you ensure that each skewer is packed with flavor. Pair it with fresh vegetables or a light salad, and you have a meal that is both healthy and mouthwatering.

Easy Meal Prep for Any Occasion

One of the best things about Greek Chicken Souvlaki is its versatility. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a weeknight dinner, or looking for a fun dish for a picnic, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. The marinade can be prepared in advance, and the chicken can be marinated overnight for even more flavor. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort on busy days.

Additionally, serving chicken souvlaki is a great way to bring people together. Set up a build-your-own souvlaki station with warm pita bread, fresh vegetables, and tzatziki sauce, encouraging everyone to create their perfect wrap. This interactive dining experience not only makes mealtime fun but also allows each guest to customize their meal to their liking, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.

Tzatziki Sauce: A Flavorful Companion

No Greek Chicken Souvlaki is complete without a side of tzatziki sauce. This creamy yogurt-based sauce is not only refreshing but also incredibly easy to make. Combining Greek yogurt with grated cucumber, garlic, and a splash of lemon juice creates a tangy dip that perfectly balances the savory flavors of the grilled chicken. The addition of fresh dill adds an aromatic touch, enhancing the overall taste experience. This sauce can also be used as a dip for vegetables or a spread for sandwiches, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.

For the best tzatziki, use high-quality Greek yogurt and make sure to drain the cucumber well to avoid excess water. This will ensure that your sauce is thick and creamy, perfect for slathering on your souvlaki or enjoying with pita chips. The freshness of the ingredients shines through, making it a delightful accompaniment that elevates your meal.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Souvlaki

1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
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 lemon juice
Salt to taste
Fresh dill, chopped (optional)

Mix ingredients thoroughly and let marinate for at least 30 minutes for best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken cubes and mix well. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Make the Tzatziki Sauce

In a separate bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt. Stir in chopped dill if using. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Skewer the Chicken

Thread the marinated chicken onto soaked wooden skewers.

Grill the Souvlaki

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.

Serve

Serve the chicken souvlaki hot with tzatziki sauce on the side and your favorite pita bread or salad.

Enjoy your homemade Greek meal!

Tips for Perfectly Grilled Souvlaki

To achieve perfectly grilled chicken souvlaki, it’s essential to preheat your grill to the right temperature. Medium-high heat ensures that the chicken cooks evenly while developing those beautiful grill marks that enhance the visual appeal of your dish. Avoid overcrowding the grill; this can cause the chicken to steam rather than grill, resulting in less flavorful skewers.

Make sure to turn the skewers occasionally during cooking. This not only helps achieve even cooking on all sides but also prevents the chicken from sticking to the grill grates. For added flavor, consider basting the chicken with a little marinade during grilling, but be cautious not to use the marinade that has touched raw chicken to avoid cross-contamination.

Serving Suggestions

Greek Chicken Souvlaki is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a refreshing Greek salad filled with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese. Drizzle some extra olive oil and a squeeze of lemon over the salad for added flavor. Alternatively, serve it with roasted vegetables or a side of rice pilaf for a heartier meal.

For a complete Greek-inspired feast, don’t forget to include warm pita bread for wrapping the chicken and tzatziki. You can also serve a selection of dips such as hummus or baba ganoush for a delightful appetizer spread. This allows your guests to enjoy a taste of Greece right at home, making your gathering a memorable culinary experience.

Storing Leftovers

Leftover chicken souvlaki can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious meals throughout the week without the hassle of cooking from scratch every day.

The tzatziki sauce can also be stored in the refrigerator for about a week, making it a perfect accompaniment for other meals. Use it as a dip for fresh vegetables or as a spread for sandwiches to extend its use beyond the initial meal. Keeping these leftovers on hand can inspire creativity in the kitchen, ensuring that your meals remain flavorful and exciting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other meats for souvlaki?

Yes, you can use pork, lamb, or even vegetables for a vegetarian option.

→ How long can I marinate the chicken?

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

→ Is tzatziki sauce healthy?

Yes, tzatziki is low in calories and high in protein, making it a healthy condiment.

→ What can I serve with souvlaki?

Souvlaki pairs well with pita bread, Greek salad, or roasted vegetables.