Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce

These Greek lemon chicken skewers with tzatziki sauce are a delightful addition to any meal or gathering. Bursting with Mediterranean flavor, they offer tender marinated chicken grilled to perfection and paired with a creamy tzatziki sauce. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or looking for a light dinner option, these skewers are sure to impress your guests. The combination of fresh ingredients and zesty lemon will leave everyone craving more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, this recipe is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Bursting with Flavor: The marinade infuses the chicken with rich Mediterranean flavors that are both refreshing and satisfying.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these skewers as an appetizer, main dish, or even at outdoor gatherings; they work for any occasion.
• Healthy Ingredients: Featuring lean chicken and fresh vegetables, this dish fits well into a balanced diet without compromising taste.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the skewers for added nutrition and flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to make the process smoother. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating delicious Greek lemon chicken skewers.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skewers
• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Grater

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: These are essential for grilling the chicken evenly while making serving easy.
• Grill or grill pan: A good grill ensures that your skewers get the perfect char and smoky flavor.
• Mixing bowl: This helps you combine all your marinade ingredients efficiently.
• Grater: Use this for preparing cucumber, giving your tzatziki sauce the right texture.

Ingredients

These Greek lemon chicken skewers are bursting with Mediterranean flavor. Tender, marinated chicken grilled to perfection and served with a creamy, refreshing tzatziki sauce makes this a perfect light meal or appetizer.

For the Chicken Skewers

• 1 1/4 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimmed
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons plain yogurt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, minced (or 1 1/2 teaspoons dried)
• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (plus more for grilling)
• 2 lemons, thinly sliced

For the Tzatziki Sauce

• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 cucumber, peeled and grated

How to Make Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce

Step 1: Prepare Your Skewers

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning on the grill.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix together:
* Salt
* Yogurt
* Garlic
* Oregano
* Pepper
* Lemon juice
* Olive oil

Add the chicken pieces to this mixture and coat them well. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the fridge for about 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Step 3: Make the Tzatziki Sauce

For the tzatziki sauce:
1. Squeeze out excess water from the grated cucumber.
2. In another bowl, mix together:
– Yogurt
– Garlic
– Salt
– Pepper
– Lemon juice

Chill this mixture until you’re ready to serve.

Step 4: Heat Your Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat while you prepare the skewers.

Step 5: Assemble Skewers

Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, alternating with lemon slices for added flavor.

Step 6: Grill Your Skewers

Brush your grill with oil. Place the skewers on it and grill them for about 5–7 minutes per side until the chicken is cooked through.

Step 7: Serve

Once grilled, serve hot alongside chilled tzatziki sauce for dipping. Enjoy these flavorful Greek lemon chicken skewers!

How to Serve Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce

These Greek lemon chicken skewers are versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Pairing them with the creamy tzatziki sauce enhances their flavor, making them ideal for any occasion.

As a Light Appetizer

• Serve on a platter: Arrange the skewers on a serving dish, garnished with fresh herbs for an elegant presentation.
• Add toothpicks: Perfect for easy snacking, especially at parties or gatherings.

With a Fresh Salad

• Greek salad: Combine tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and feta cheese for a refreshing side that complements the chicken.
• Tossed green salad: A simple mix of mixed greens dressed lightly with olive oil and lemon juice balances the richness of the tzatziki.

In a Wrap

• Pita bread wrap: Stuff warm pita with skewers, lettuce, and tzatziki for a delicious handheld meal.
• Lettuce wraps: For a low-carb option, use large lettuce leaves to hold the chicken and sauce.

As Part of a Mediterranean Feast

• Include assorted dips: Add hummus and baba ganoush to create a stunning mezze platter alongside your skewers.
• Serve with grilled vegetables: Charred bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant pair beautifully with these skewers.

How to Perfect Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce

Achieving perfect Greek lemon chicken skewers is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Marinate longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for up to an hour enhances its flavor and tenderness.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will provide a more vibrant taste compared to dried alternatives.
• Preheat your grill: Ensuring your grill is hot before adding the skewers helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and locks in moisture.
• Don’t overcrowd the skewers: Leaving space between pieces allows heat to circulate evenly, ensuring thorough cooking.
• Check doneness carefully: Using a meat thermometer ensures that your chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption without drying out.
• Let it rest: Allowing the skewers to rest for a few minutes after grilling helps retain juices before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce

Pairing side dishes with your Greek lemon chicken skewers can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Greek Salad: A classic mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese drizzled with olive oil adds freshness.
2. Quinoa Tabbouleh: This herby salad made from quinoa, parsley, mint, tomatoes, and lemon juice is nutritious and light.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus can be tossed on the grill for added flavor.
4. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with oregano make a hearty addition that complements grilled foods well.
5. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with broth and herbs brings an aromatic touch that pairs nicely with chicken dishes.
6. Stuffed Grape Leaves: These savory bites filled with rice and herbs offer a unique Mediterranean taste that balances well with chicken.
7. Hummus & Pita Chips: Creamy hummus served alongside crispy pita chips makes for an irresistible snack or appetizer option.
8. Olive Tapenade: A spread made from olives provides a salty contrast that enhances the flavors of the skewer dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Greek lemon chicken skewers can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Bold marinade: Not marinating the chicken long enough can result in bland flavors. Make sure to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even up to an hour for deeper flavor penetration.
• Bold skewer preparation: Forgetting to soak wooden skewers can lead to burnt sticks. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes prior to grilling.
• Bold grill temperature: Grilling on low heat may cause uneven cooking. Preheat your grill to medium-high for the best results.
• Bold ingredient freshness: Using old or stale spices and herbs can diminish flavor. Always use fresh ingredients whenever possible for maximum taste.
• Bold tzatziki texture: Not draining the cucumber properly will make your tzatziki watery. Squeeze excess water from the grated cucumber before mixing it with yogurt.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Greek lemon chicken skewers in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce

• Wrap skewers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place skewers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place skewers on a microwave-safe plate and cover them. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Cook the skewers for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Greek lemon chicken skewers with tzatziki sauce.

What is the focus keyphrase of this recipe?

The focus keyphrase is Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce, which highlights the main components of this delicious dish.

Can I use different meats for Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, lamb, or turkey while following the same marination process.

How long do I need to marinate the chicken?

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes and up to an hour for enhanced flavor.

What can I serve with Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers?

These skewers pair well with salads, pita bread, or rice dishes, making them versatile for various meals.

Can I prepare tzatziki sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare tzatziki sauce a day ahead and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

These Greek lemon chicken skewers with tzatziki sauce are not only flavorful but also simple to prepare. Perfect as an appetizer or light meal, they offer versatility that allows customization based on your preferences. Feel free to try different marinades or side dishes; enjoy experimenting!