Chicken Souvlaki Tzatziki: The Ultimate Guide to Making Authentic Greek Souvlaki

Chicken Souvlaki Tzatziki: Prepare to embark on a culinary journey to the sun-kissed shores of Greece! Imagine tender, marinated chicken, grilled to perfection and nestled in a warm pita, all drizzled with a cool and creamy tzatziki sauce. Is your mouth watering yet? This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience.

Souvlaki, derived from the Greek word “souvla” meaning skewer, has a history as rich and flavorful as the dish itself. Evidence suggests that similar skewered meats were enjoyed in ancient Greece, making this a truly timeless culinary tradition. While variations exist throughout the country, the combination of succulent meat, fresh vegetables, and that iconic yogurt-based sauce remains a beloved staple.

What makes Chicken Souvlaki Tzatziki so irresistible? It’s the perfect harmony of textures and flavors. The slightly charred, savory chicken contrasts beautifully with the refreshing coolness of the tzatziki. The creamy sauce, often infused with garlic, cucumber, and dill, adds a tangy zest that elevates the entire dish. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! Enjoy it as a quick and easy weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or even a delightful addition to your next picnic. Get ready to discover why this classic Greek dish has captured hearts (and stomachs) around the world!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken Souvlaki:
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Wooden or metal skewers

• For the Tzatziki Sauce:
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat)
• 1/2 cup cucumber, peeled, seeded, and grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• For Serving (Optional):
• Pita bread, warmed
• Chopped tomatoes
• Sliced red onion
• Kalamata olives
• Feta cheese, crumbled
• Lemon wedges

Preparing the Chicken Marinade:

1. First, let’s get that chicken marinating! In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Make sure everything is well combined. This marinade is what gives the souvlaki its amazing flavor, so don’t skimp on the spices!
2. Add the cubed chicken to the bowl with the marinade. Toss the chicken thoroughly to ensure that each piece is evenly coated. You want every single cube to be infused with that delicious flavor.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken to a resealable plastic bag. Place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably for 2-4 hours. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful and tender the chicken will be. I’ve even marinated it overnight before, and it was fantastic!

Making the Tzatziki Sauce:

1. While the chicken is marinating, let’s whip up the tzatziki sauce. This cool and creamy sauce is the perfect complement to the grilled chicken. Start by grating the cucumber. Place the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much excess liquid as possible. This step is crucial to prevent the tzatziki from becoming watery.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, squeezed cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, chopped fresh dill, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
3. Taste the tzatziki and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a little more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your preference.
4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the tzatziki sauce for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. The longer it sits, the better it tastes!

Assembling and Grilling the Souvlaki:

1. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This will prevent them from burning on the grill. If you’re using metal skewers, you can skip this step.
2. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent the chicken from sticking.
3. Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece. Don’t overcrowd the skewers, as this will prevent the chicken from cooking evenly.
4. Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 8-12 minutes, turning them occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a slight char on all sides. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
5. Remove the chicken souvlaki from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.

Serving the Chicken Souvlaki:

1. Now for the best part – serving! You can serve the chicken souvlaki in a variety of ways.
2. Classic Pita Pockets: Warm the pita bread and stuff it with the chicken souvlaki, a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce, chopped tomatoes, sliced red onion, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a final touch of brightness.
3. Souvlaki Platter: Arrange the chicken souvlaki on a platter alongside bowls of tzatziki sauce, chopped tomatoes, sliced red onion, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and lemon wedges. Serve with warm pita bread on the side. This is a great option for a party or gathering.
4. Greek Salad Topping: Slice the chicken souvlaki and serve it on top of a Greek salad for a protein-packed and flavorful meal.
5. No matter how you choose to serve it, the combination of the flavorful chicken, cool tzatziki sauce, and fresh toppings is sure to be a hit! Enjoy!

Conclusion:

This Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki recipe isn’t just another meal; it’s a passport to the sun-drenched shores of Greece, right from your kitchen! The tender, marinated chicken, bursting with lemon and oregano, paired with the cool, creamy, and refreshing tzatziki sauce, creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s a dish that’s both incredibly satisfying and surprisingly easy to make, making it a weeknight winner or a crowd-pleasing centerpiece for your next gathering.

Why is this a must-try? Because it’s a flavor explosion! The combination of the savory, grilled chicken and the tangy, herbaceous tzatziki is simply irresistible. It’s also a healthier alternative to many takeout options, allowing you to control the ingredients and portion sizes. Plus, the vibrant flavors are guaranteed to brighten up any day. I’ve made this recipe countless times, and it’s always a hit. The simplicity of the preparation belies the complex and delicious taste.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! This recipe is incredibly versatile. Serve the Chicken Souvlaki in warm pita bread with your favorite toppings like sliced tomatoes, red onions, and crisp lettuce for a classic souvlaki experience. Or, create a vibrant Greek salad bowl by layering the chicken and tzatziki over a bed of mixed greens, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese. For a lighter option, thread the marinated chicken onto skewers with colorful vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a delicious and healthy grilled meal.

Looking for variations? Try using different cuts of chicken, such as chicken thighs for a richer flavor. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices in the marinade. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a touch of heat, while a sprinkle of smoked paprika lends a smoky depth. For the tzatziki, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of white wine vinegar for extra tang. If you’re feeling adventurous, try grilling the pita bread for a slightly charred and smoky flavor.

The possibilities are endless! This Chicken Souvlaki Tzatziki recipe is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the magic for yourself. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a dish that you’ll want to make again and again.

I’m so confident that you’ll love this recipe that I can’t wait to hear about your experience! Once you’ve tried it, please share your photos and comments. Let me know what variations you tried and what your family and friends thought. Did you add any special ingredients? Did you serve it with a unique side dish? Your feedback is invaluable and helps me to continue creating delicious and easy-to-follow recipes. So, get cooking, and let’s bring a little taste of Greece to your table! I am excited to see your creations!