I’ve always loved Greek flavors, and making Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe, at home quickly became a favorite of mine. The juicy, lemony chicken paired with creamy, tangy tzatziki feels both fresh and indulgent.
I love that this recipe is simple yet packed with authentic Mediterranean taste. After making it a few times, I realized it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
You can also enjoy similar hearty meals like Mexican Meatloaf Recipe for a flavorful twist. Let me walk you through exactly how I make this delicious dish.
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make this classic Greek meal:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – tender and lean, perfect for skewers
- 1 cup Greek yogurt – use full-fat for creamier tzatziki
- 1/4 cup olive oil – adds richness and helps chicken stay moist
- 1/4 cup lemon juice – fresh is best for bright, zesty flavor
- 4 cloves garlic – finely minced to infuse flavor
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano – essential for authentic Greek taste
- 1 teaspoon salt – balances all the flavors
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – freshly ground is best
- 1/2 cup cucumber – finely grated and drained to avoid watery sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill – chopped, for a fragrant, herby tzatziki
Note: several servings
Variations
- Swap chicken for lamb or shrimp for different proteins
- Use dairy-free yogurt for a lactose-free tzatziki
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes to chicken marinade for extra flavor
- Replace dill with mint for a refreshing twist.
- You can also try other baked dishes like Tomato Basil Baked Chicken and Rice Recipe for a comforting option
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 12–15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Equipment You Need
- Skewers – to grill the chicken evenly
- Grill or grill pan – for that perfect char
- Mixing bowls – for marinating chicken and making tzatziki
- Grater – for cucumber to ensure smooth tzatziki
- Tongs – for safely turning skewers
How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce?
Prepare the Chicken Marinade
Mix lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Coat the chicken breasts well, cover, and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb all flavors.
Make the Tzatziki Sauce
Grate the cucumber, squeeze out excess water, then combine it with Greek yogurt, dill, garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Chill in the fridge while the chicken cooks to let flavors meld.
Skewer and Grill the Chicken
Cut marinated chicken into bite-size pieces and thread onto skewers. Grill over medium heat for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is golden and cooked through.
Serve and Enjoy
Plate the chicken skewers with a generous dollop of tzatziki. Garnish with extra dill or a wedge of lemon for a bright, restaurant-style presentation.
Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better
- I always squeeze the cucumber well; it prevents watery tzatziki.
- I like letting the chicken marinate overnight—it makes it even juicier.
- Brushing olive oil on skewers prevents sticking and adds flavor.
- I toast the skewers lightly before grilling for a smoky aroma.
How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce?
Serve skewers on a platter with warm pita bread, sliced tomatoes, and red onions. I like adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of extra tzatziki on top. A side Greek salad or roasted vegetables makes it visually stunning and complete.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick snapshot of what you get per serving:
- Calories: ~320 kcal – a satisfying, light meal
- Protein: 35g – keeps you full and energized
- Carbohydrates: 8g – mostly from yogurt and cucumber
- Fat: 15g – healthy fats from olive oil and yogurt
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing: Keep cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Tzatziki should be stored separately to maintain its texture.
Freezing: You can freeze marinated chicken before grilling for up to 2 months. Tzatziki does not freeze well, so prepare fresh when serving.
Reheating: Warm chicken gently on the grill or stovetop. I avoid microwaving tzatziki to preserve its creamy texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
Making this dish is an absolute treat. Here’s why:
- Easy prep and quick cooking – perfect for weeknight dinners
- Full of fresh Mediterranean flavors – tangy, herby, and zesty
- Flexible protein options – chicken, lamb, or shrimp all work
- Great for gatherings – pairs well with pita, salads, or rice bowls
- Healthy and satisfying – high protein, low carb, and full of nutrients.
Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Mix lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Coat the chicken breasts well, cover, and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb all flavors.
- Grate the cucumber, squeeze out excess water, then combine it with Greek yogurt, dill, garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Chill in the fridge while the chicken cooks to let flavors meld.
- Cut marinated chicken into bite-size pieces and thread onto skewers. Grill over medium heat for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is golden and cooked through.
- Plate the chicken skewers with a generous dollop of tzatziki. Garnish with extra dill or a wedge of lemon for a bright, restaurant-style presentation.
Notes
- I always squeeze the cucumber well; it prevents watery tzatziki.
- I like letting the chicken marinate overnight—it makes it even juicier.
- Brushing olive oil on skewers prevents sticking and adds flavor.
- I toast the skewers lightly before grilling for a smoky aroma.