If you love Mediterranean flavors, this Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce recipe is a must-try! Juicy, marinated chicken grilled to perfection and paired with a refreshing homemade tzatziki sauce—this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, summer barbecues, or meal prepping. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just getting started in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward, flavorful, and sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Minimal prep and cooking time make this a go-to meal.
- Healthy & Nutritious: High in protein, low in carbs, and packed with fresh ingredients.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make ahead and enjoy throughout the week.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters love these juicy chicken skewers.
- Customizable: Easy to adapt with different spices, proteins, or serving styles.
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup shredded English cucumber (about 1/2 large cucumber)
- 1 1/2 cups plain Greek yogurt (non-fat, 2%, or whole)
- Juice of half a lemon
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 1/2 teaspoon grated garlic (increase to 1 teaspoon for a stronger garlic flavor)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife and cutting board
- Grill or grill pan
- Wooden or metal skewers
- Paper towels or clean kitchen towel
1. Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, red wine vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, parsley, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and mix well to coat evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 3 hours for enhanced flavor.
2. Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce
- Place the shredded cucumber in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and squeeze out excess moisture.
- In a medium bowl, combine the drained cucumber, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, chopped dill, grated garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
3. Assemble and Grill the Skewers
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the chicken skewers for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
4. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the chicken skewers warm, accompanied by the chilled tzatziki sauce. These skewers pair perfectly with a Greek salad, warm pita bread, or a side of lemon rice.
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: The marinated (uncooked) chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before grilling.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes.
- Protein Swap: Try shrimp, lamb, or tofu instead of chicken.
- Herb Variations: Use fresh oregano or mint for a more vibrant flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut yogurt for a dairy-free tzatziki sauce.
- Side Dishes: Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or orzo pasta.
- Drinks: Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing lemonade.
Can I make this recipe without a grill?
Yes! You can cook the skewers on a grill pan or bake them in a 400°F oven for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.
How do I keep the chicken juicy?
Marinating for at least an hour and not overcooking the chicken will help keep it juicy.
Can I use store-bought tzatziki sauce?
Absolutely! However, homemade tzatziki has a fresher taste and is easy to make.
What if I don’t have skewers?
You can cook the marinated chicken pieces directly in a pan for a stir-fry-style dish.
These Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce bring bold Mediterranean flavors to your table with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or prepping for a busy week, this dish is a fantastic addition to your recipe collection.
Loved this recipe? Share it with your friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes!