Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce

Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce: How to Make the Best Version!

Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce โ€“ a Mediterranean classic featuring marinated grilled chicken skewers served with creamy cucumber yogurt sauce, dating back over 4,000 years.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes (plus 3-24 hours marinating time)
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Souvlaki:

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • ยผ cup extra virgin olive oil (preferably Greek)
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (approximately 1 large lemon)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • ยฝ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • Wooden or metal skewers

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

  • 2 cups Greek yogurt (full-fat provides the best flavor and texture)
  • 1 English cucumber, grated and drained
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped (optional)
  • ยฝ teaspoon salt
  • ยผ teaspoon black pepper

For Serving:

  • Warm pita bread
  • Sliced tomatoes
  • Sliced cucumbers
  • Thinly sliced red onion
  • Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
  • Lemon wedges

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, cumin, honey, salt, and pepper. Whisk until thoroughly combined. Reserve 2 tablespoons of the marinade before adding the chicken.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight.
  3. Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce: Grate the cucumber using the large holes of a box grater. Place the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, drained cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dill, mint (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  4. Skewer the Chicken and Vegetables: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. Alternately thread marinated chicken pieces with red onion and bell pepper chunks onto the skewers, leaving small spaces between each piece.
  5. Preheat and Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (approximately 400-425ยฐF). Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  6. Grill the Souvlaki: Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 12-15 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes. Brush occasionally with the reserved marinade. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165ยฐF.
  7. Rest and Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes. Serve hot with tzatziki sauce, warm pita bread, and fresh vegetable garnishes.

Notes

  • For a deeper flavor profile, substitute chicken thighs for breasts. Thighs contain more iron and stay juicier when grilled.
  • For a dairy-free tzatziki alternative, use coconut yogurt instead of Greek yogurt.
  • A minimum 3-hour marinade will deliver 85% of the flavor penetration compared to overnight marinating.
  • Removing excess cucumber moisture is crucial for thick, restaurant-quality tzatziki.
  • Always use a meat thermometer to verify chicken has reached 165ยฐF for food safety.
  • Resting the grilled chicken for 5 minutes improves juice retention significantly.
  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 skewers with 2 tablespoons tzatziki
  • Calories: 310
  • Sodium: 580mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 35g

Keywords: Greek chicken souvlaki, tzatziki sauce, Mediterranean cuisine, chicken skewers, Greek yogurt sauce, grilled chicken, authentic Greek recipe