Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce

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One bite into these Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce and I’m instantly transported to a sun-drenched Greek island, where the scent of grilled herbs mingles with the salty sea air. This dish is one of my go-to summer meals because it’s impossibly flavorful, so easy to make, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether I’m hosting a backyard dinner or prepping a quick weeknight meal, these skewers never let me down.

I love how the marinade infuses the chicken with bright, citrusy notes from the lemon juice, balanced perfectly with the earthy depth of garlic and oregano. The grill works its magic, creating that slightly charred edge that locks in juiciness and flavor. And let me tell you, pairing it with cool, creamy tzatziki sauce made with fresh cucumber and dill takes this dish to a whole new level of freshness.

It’s one of those dishes that feels both indulgent and wholesome at the same time. You’re enjoying tender bites of perfectly seasoned chicken, dipped in a refreshing sauce, all while keeping it light and satisfying. If you love my Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts or crave Mediterranean flavors like in my Yummy Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa, then this will be your new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce

This recipe captures the heart of Mediterranean simplicity with bold, clean flavors. It’s perfect for meal prep or entertaining, easily scalable, and naturally gluten-free. You can serve it as an appetizer, main course, or even stuff it in a warm pita. Plus, the homemade tzatziki adds a tangy, cooling contrast that keeps each bite exciting. If you’re a fan of grilling or looking to expand your summer recipe lineup, this one absolutely deserves a spot.

Ingredients

Chicken breasts are the core of this dish. They soak up the lemony marinade beautifully and grill to tender perfection. Lemon juice is essential here, lending that bright, tangy note that defines the flavor profile. Olive oil not only helps keep the chicken juicy but also acts as a carrier for all the herbs and spices.

Garlic is a must for depth, while dried oregano gives that classic Greek herbaceous flair. A bit of salt and freshly ground black pepper round everything off. For the tzatziki, Greek yogurt creates the creamy base, while grated cucumber adds freshness and crunch. Fresh dill infuses the sauce with aromatic brightness, and a splash of lemon juice keeps it lively.

How to Make Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and toss them in a marinade of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Make the Tzatziki Sauce

While the chicken marinates, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (squeezed to remove excess water), chopped dill, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well and chill until ready to serve.

Step 3: Skewer the Chicken

Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is nicely charred on the edges and fully cooked through.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the hot skewers with a generous side of the chilled tzatziki sauce. You can also add a side of grilled vegetables or warm pita for a complete meal.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

For a twist on the original, try swapping chicken breasts with boneless chicken thighs for extra juiciness. If you’re avoiding dairy, coconut yogurt makes a great base for the tzatziki sauce. Want it spicier? Add a pinch of chili flakes to the marinade. You can even turn these into wraps by serving the grilled chicken and tzatziki in warm flatbread with tomatoes and lettuce.

Not a fan of dill? Fresh mint or parsley works well in the tzatziki for a different herbal note. You can also use lime instead of lemon for a more tropical tang. And if grilling isn’t an option, a hot oven broiler or stovetop grill pan works beautifully.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce over a bed of fluffy rice pilaf or a simple Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta. For a fuller spread, include some warm pita bread and roasted potatoes on the side.

This dish pairs perfectly with chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a citrusy sparkling water. For a lighter meal, try it alongside grilled zucchini or eggplant.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the chicken and tzatziki separate to maintain the best texture and flavor.

To reheat the chicken, place the skewers in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the chicken rubbery. The tzatziki should be served cold and can be stirred to refresh its consistency.

FAQs

How long can I marinate the Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce?

You can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes, but for best flavor, aim for 2 to 4 hours. Avoid going over 8 hours as the lemon juice can start to break down the chicken too much.

Can I make Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare both the chicken and the tzatziki sauce a day in advance. Just keep them refrigerated separately until you’re ready to grill and serve.

What type of yogurt is best for the Tzatziki in Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce?

Full-fat Greek yogurt gives the best creamy texture and tang. However, low-fat or even dairy-free alternatives like coconut yogurt can also work.

Can I cook Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce without a grill?

Yes! You can use a stovetop grill pan or broil the skewers in your oven. Just keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking and ensure they get that lovely char.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If these Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce left you craving more Mediterranean flavors, you’ll definitely want to try my Marry Me Chicken Pasta or the ever-popular Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta. Both are packed with bold, savory ingredients and have that crave-worthy quality that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Don’t forget to save this recipe on your favorite Pinterest board so you can find it whenever that Greek food craving strikes. It’s perfect for summer cookouts, easy weeknight dinners, or when you want to impress guests with something fresh and flavorful. Share the love by sending it to a friend or posting a photo of your version on social media—I love seeing how you all bring these dishes to life!

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