Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce

Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce are a fresh and flavorful Mediterranean dish featuring marinated chicken grilled to perfection and served with a creamy cucumber-yogurt dip. This light yet satisfying recipe is ideal for summer cookouts, quick dinners, or even meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the zesty brightness of lemon, the depth of garlic and oregano, and the smoky finish from grilling. Paired with a cooling homemade tzatziki sauce, it’s a wholesome meal that balances protein and refreshing herbs beautifully. It’s also low-carb, gluten-free, and naturally nutritious.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• Fresh lemon juice

• Olive oil

• Garlic cloves

• Dried oregano

• Salt

• Ground black pepper

• Wooden skewers (soaked in water)

• Greek yogurt

• Cucumber

• Fresh dill

• White vinegar

directions

1. Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.

2. Marinate the chicken: Cut chicken into bite-sized cubes and toss them in the marinade. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight.

3. Make the tzatziki sauce: Peel and grate the cucumber, then squeeze out excess moisture. Combine with Greek yogurt, garlic, dill, vinegar, and salt. Chill until ready to serve.

4. Skewer the chicken: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto soaked wooden skewers.

5. Grill: Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill skewers for about 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly charred.

6. Serve: Serve hot with chilled tzatziki sauce on the side.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marination time)

• Cook Time: 10–12 minutes

• Total Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes (including marination)

Variations

• Substitute chicken thighs for a juicier result.

• Add chunks of red onion, bell pepper, or zucchini to the skewers.

• Use lime juice and cilantro for a more Latin-inspired twist.

• Serve over pita bread with lettuce and tomatoes for a gyro-style meal.

storage/reheating

Store leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Tzatziki sauce can be refrigerated separately for 2–3 days. Reheat chicken skewers gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Avoid reheating tzatziki sauce.

FAQs

What is tzatziki sauce made of?

Tzatziki is a traditional Greek sauce made with Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, and fresh herbs like dill or mint.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are a great substitute and tend to be juicier and more flavorful when grilled.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

A minimum of 1 hour is recommended, but marinating overnight enhances the flavor even more.

Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?

Yes, bake the skewers at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through.

What kind of grill is best for this recipe?

A gas or charcoal grill works well, but an indoor grill pan or even a broiler can be used in a pinch.

How do I keep wooden skewers from burning?

Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the tzatziki sauce up to a day in advance.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, it is low in carbohydrates and high in protein, making it suitable for a keto diet.

What sides go well with this dish?

Greek salad, roasted potatoes, couscous, or warm pita bread pair nicely.

Can I freeze the chicken skewers?

You can freeze the raw marinated chicken (without the skewers) for up to 2 months. Thaw before threading and grilling. Cooked skewers can be frozen but may lose texture upon reheating.

Conclusion

Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce offer a delightful blend of vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re entertaining guests or preparing a quick family dinner, this recipe provides a healthy and satisfying option with minimal fuss. Add it to your regular rotation and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean at home.