Let’s escape to the Mediterranean—without leaving your kitchen—by making Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce. This mouthwatering dish brings together juicy, perfectly grilled chicken kissed with zesty lemon and fragrant oregano, all paired with a creamy, refreshing Greek yogurt sauce loaded with cucumber and dill. Whether you’re craving a healthy weeknight dinner or planning a standout dish for your next cookout, Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce delivers big flavor with minimal fuss. Ready to find out why this has become my absolute favorite for both meal-prep and entertaining?
Ingredients You’ll Need
All you need for Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce are a few carefully chosen staples, each playing an essential role. From vibrant citrus to cool yogurt, the ingredients below are the secret to a combination of bright flavors and crave-worthy textures.
- Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breast works beautifully for soaking up the tangy marinade and grills up nice and juicy.
- Olive oil: Go for extra virgin olive oil—it adds richness and helps lock in moisture during grilling.
- Lemon (juice and zest): The zingy citrus infuses both the marinade and the tzatziki, making the flavors pop.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds big, bold flavor in every bite—don’t be shy!
- Red wine vinegar: Just a splash gives a bright note and balances the dish.
- Dried oregano: This classic Greek herb is key for that unmistakable Mediterranean aroma.
- Salt & black pepper: Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the sauce—use them generously for best results.
- Greek yogurt: Thick, creamy, and tangy, Greek yogurt forms the luxurious base for your tzatziki.
- Cucumber: For the sauce, grate it and be sure to squeeze out excess water for the perfect creamy texture.
- Fresh dill: Just a tablespoon brings a fragrant freshness that elevates the tzatziki.
- Wooden or metal skewers: If using wooden, soak them in water first to prevent burning on the grill.
How to Make Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
The marinade is where the magic of Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce begins. Whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice and zest, garlic, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Add the chicken cubes and toss well to coat each piece thoroughly. Cover and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, two hours yields incredible flavor. The marinade tenderizes the meat and infuses it with bright, herby notes.
Step 2: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce
While your chicken gets flavorful, whip up the tzatziki. In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated and well-drained cucumber, fresh dill, lemon juice, a bit of minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until creamy and smooth, then refrigerate until it’s time to serve. Allowing the tzatziki to chill melds the flavors and gives it that irresistibly cool, refreshing taste.
Step 3: Skewer and Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto your soaked wooden or metal skewers, packing them fairly tightly, but not squished. Grill the skewers for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning them every few minutes to ensure even charring and gorgeous grill marks. The goal is juicy, fully-cooked chicken with a golden, slightly crisp exterior.
Step 4: Serve It Up!
Take your smoky, sizzling chicken off the grill and transfer it to a serving platter. Add a generous dollop of chilled tzatziki sauce, and watch the creamy sauce slowly mingle with the warm, lemony chicken. Don’t forget the little extra touches—or the side dishes—that transform these Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce into a stunning meal.
How to Serve Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce
Garnishes
To make your platter truly sing, scatter a shower of freshly chopped dill or parsley over your Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce. Sprinkle on some extra lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon right before serving to wake up all those bright, herby notes. A little drizzle of high-quality olive oil over the tzatziki is a simple way to add extra richness.
Side Dishes
These skewers are honestly irresistible just as they are, but pairing them with fluffy pita bread, a classic Greek village salad, or crispy roasted potatoes makes it a meal to remember. Try serving alongside rice pilaf or a tabbouleh salad for a lovely contrast of textures and flavors. Don’t skip a side of extra tzatziki for dipping!
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to wow your guests, serve the Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce build-your-own style: set out warm pita or naan, a bowl of tzatziki, plenty of fresh veggies, and let everyone assemble their own Mediterranean wraps. For a party, arrange mini-skewers on a big platter with toothpicks and a bowl of sauce for dipping—the perfect finger food for entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Have leftovers? Store the grilled chicken and tzatziki sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The chicken will keep well for up to three days. Tzatziki lasts for up to four days and is even delicious as a dip for veggies or tossed with salads.
Freezing
While you can freeze the marinated but uncooked chicken for up to two months, try to avoid freezing tzatziki sauce as the cucumbers may release too much water and alter the texture. For best results, make fresh tzatziki each time you serve Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce.
Reheating
Warm the leftover chicken gently in a covered skillet over medium heat, or in the microwave with a splash of water to keep it moist. Serve with freshly chilled tzatziki, and you’ll be reminded instantly why this dish is such a winner.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs bring even more juiciness and rich flavor to Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce. Just cut them into equal-sized chunks and follow the same marinating and grilling instructions.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
A minimum of 30 minutes is enough for great flavor, but if you want deeper herb and lemon infusion, marinate for up to 2 hours. Overnight works well too, especially if you use thighs rather than breasts.
Can I bake the skewers instead of grilling?
Yes! If you don’t have a grill, bake the skewers on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 425°F for about 15 to 18 minutes, flipping halfway through. You may not get those lovely grill marks, but the flavor will still be spot on.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It sure is! Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure any sides or pita breads you serve are also gluten-free if that’s a concern for you or your guests.
Can I make the tzatziki in advance?
Definitely—tzatziki actually tastes better after a few hours in the fridge as the flavors meld. Make it up to two days ahead and store it covered until you’re ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re new to Mediterranean cooking or already in love with these flavors, you’re in for a treat with Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce. Gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and share this bright, delicious dish with family or friends—you may just find it becomes a staple at your table too!
