Grilled Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce

Looking for a delightful and flavorful dish to impress your guests? Chicken Souvlaki is the answer! These tender, marinated chicken skewers are not just delicious; they also bring a taste of Mediterranean cuisine right to your backyard. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply enjoying a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to elevate your meal.

Imagine the aroma of spices and grilled chicken wafting through the air as you prepare this easy Chicken Souvlaki. Each bite is a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and fresh flavors, especially when paired with a refreshing tzatziki sauce. It’s a dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also transports your taste buds to a sun-soaked Greek island.

Discover the Flavors of Chicken Souvlaki

If you’re in the mood for a dish that brings the essence of Mediterranean cuisine to your table, Chicken Souvlaki is an excellent choice. These marinated chicken skewers are not just a treat for the taste buds; they are also a feast for the eyes.

Imagining the aroma of grilled chicken, infused with a blend of spices, is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. Each bite delivers a unique combination of savory and tangy flavors, making this dish utterly satisfying.

The Art of Marinating Chicken

The secret to succulent Chicken Souvlaki lies in the marinade. It typically consists of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and a mix of aromatic herbs like oregano and thyme. This marinade not only tenderizes the chicken but also enhances its natural flavors.

Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes—or up to two hours—ensures that each piece is infused with those delightful flavors. The result is chicken that is juicy on the inside and slightly charred on the outside, perfect for grilling.

Preparing Homemade Tzatziki Sauce

No Chicken Souvlaki experience is complete without a side of tzatziki sauce. This creamy sauce, made from Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, and garlic, adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the skewers beautifully.

Mixing in a splash of lemon juice and a drizzle of olive oil elevates the sauce, making it a refreshing accompaniment. It’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld together. Just remember to keep it chilled until serving!

Grilling to Perfection

Grilling Chicken Souvlaki is where the magic happens. Preheat the grill to a medium-high temperature, and once ready, place the skewers on the grill. The goal is to achieve those beautiful grill marks while ensuring the chicken is cooked through.

Turning the skewers occasionally during cooking helps to evenly distribute the heat, resulting in a beautifully charred exterior. The grilling process typically takes about 10 to 12 minutes, making this dish a quick yet impressive option for meal time.

Serving Suggestions

Presenting Chicken Souvlaki is an art in itself. Serve the skewers alongside warm pita bread and bowls of tzatziki sauce for dipping. Adding slices of fresh tomatoes and cucumbers not only enhances the dish’s visual appeal but also introduces a refreshing crunch.

This combination transforms your meal into a Mediterranean feast, perfect for sharing with family and friends. The vibrant colors and varied textures create an inviting atmosphere at the dinner table.

The Nutritional Benefits

Chicken Souvlaki is not just delicious; it also offers a range of nutritional benefits. With a good balance of protein and healthy fats, it is a satisfying option that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Each serving typically contains around 250 calories, making it a smart choice for a hearty meal without overwhelming your diet.

Incorporating fresh ingredients like herbs and vegetables adds vitamins and minerals, making this dish a wholesome choice for any occasion. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner at home, Chicken Souvlaki checks all the boxes for a delightful meal.

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes prior to grilling)
• For Tzatziki Sauce: 1 cup Greek yogurt, 1 cucumber grated and drained, 1 garlic clove minced, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, salt to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add chicken cubes, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and let marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
2. Prepare the Tzatziki: In a separate bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt. Adjust seasoning to taste and refrigerate until ready to serve.
3. Skewer the Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
4. Grill the Souvlaki: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
5. Serve: Remove skewers from the grill and let rest for a few minutes. Serve with tzatziki sauce and your favorite sides, such as pita bread, salad, or rice.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 4
• Calories: 250kcal
• Fat: 12g
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 5g