Mouth-watering Chicken Souvlaki and Tzatziki Recipe
Picture this – it’s a warm summer evening, the sun is setting, and you’re standing by your grill, brushing olive oil over perfectly seasoned chicken skewers. The sizzle of the meat on the grates and the wafting aromas of garlic, oregano and lemon make your mouth water. But something is missing. It’s that perfect accompaniment that gives each bite a tangy zing – the tzatziki sauce.
This recipe for Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce will have you feeling as if you’ve transported straight to Greece, with its succulent and juicy chunks of chicken breast marinated in tangy Greek spices and served alongside a creamy cucumber yogurt sauce, infused with fresh dill and garlic.
As an Israeli chef who grew up eating a wide range of Mediterranean dishes, I can tell you this dish is an absolute must-try. The flavors come together in perfect harmony to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor, while remaining simple to make.
So grab your skewers and let’s get cooking – this recipe is sure to become a favorite among your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
My fellow food enthusiasts, have you been looking for a recipe to knock your socks off? Well, look no further because I’ve found the one – Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce! Trust me; you don’t want to miss out on this dish.
Firstly, picture yourself biting into tender, juicy chicken breasts marinated in a perfect blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano. The flavors burst in your mouth like fireworks on the Fourth of July. But wait, it gets better!
The chicken is then skewered and grilled to perfection, leaving those deliciously charred grill marks that scream flavor. And what’s a Greek-inspired dish without tzatziki sauce? This creamy cucumber yogurt sauce is the perfect companion for the souvlaki, bringing a whole other level of refreshing tanginess.
Not only is this recipe packed full of flavor, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy this dish as a quick weeknight dinner with some roasted veggies or Greek salad on the side. Or you can turn up the heat and throw a party with some pita bread and Israeli salad.
But most importantly, this chicken souvlaki with tzatziki sauce recipe is easy to follow! Even if you’re not a seasoned cook, this recipe won’t leave you scratching your head like some kind of puzzle. So why deprive yourself any longer? Treat yourself and your loved ones to the delectable flavors of Greece with this exceptional recipe!
Ingredient List
Let’s talk about the ingredients you’ll need to make this mouthwatering chicken souvlaki with tzatziki sauce recipe. Don’t worry – you won’t need to go on an extended grocery run for this dish since most of these ingredients are pantry staples.
Chicken Souvlaki Ingredients
1lbboneless, skinless chicken breasts- Salt and fresh ground pepper, as desired
1 tspdry oregano2 clovesgarlic, minced2 tbspextra-virgin olive oil1 tbspfresh lemon juice
Tzatziki Sauce Ingredients
1medium-sized English cucumber1 1/2 cupsfull-fat plain Greek yogurt2 clovesgarlic, minced1 tbspminced fresh dill1 tbspfresh lemon juice1/4 cupextra-virgin olive oilsalt and fresh ground pepper, as desired
Additional ingredients:
– Sliced tomatoes
– Thinly sliced red onion
– Pita bread for serving
Feel free to adjust the amount of salt and pepper you use based on your taste preference. If you want to season your chicken with an extra kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or sweet paprika to your chicken marinade. Don’t be afraid to get creative with this dish, it’s all about finding the balance!
The Recipe How-To
Now that you have gathered all the necessary ingredients, it’s time to start cooking! Follow these step-by-step instructions to make the perfect Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce:
Preparing the Chicken
- Begin by washing your chicken breasts and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized cubes or thin strips.
- In a mixing bowl, add in 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp of dry oregano, ½ tsp of fresh ground pepper, and 1 tbsp of kosher salt.
- Add 4 tbsp of olive oil and 2 tbsp of fresh lemon juice to the mixing bowl and whisk together until well combined.
- Add the cubed chicken to the marinade mixture, ensuring that each piece is fully coated in the mixture.
- Cover the mixing bowl with cling film and place it in the fridge for at least an hour or overnight.
Preparing Tzatziki Sauce
- Begin by washing one medium-sized cucumber and remove both ends.
- Dice the cucumber into small pieces and place them in a mixing bowl.
- Mince two garlic cloves with a sharp knife and add them to the same mixing bowl as cucumber pieces.
- Add 1 tbsp of freshly squeezed lemon juice to the mixture along with a pinch of salt and pepper, whisk everything together until combined.
- Then pour in ½ cup of plain Greek yogurt into the mix followed by some chopped fresh dill leaves (around 1 tablespoon).
- Stir everything again until well combined and store it in the fridge.
Assembling Souvlaki Skewers
- After an hour or overnight, remove chicken from marinade and discard any excess liquid left behind on chicken pieces
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers leaving enough space for even cooking
- Preheat your grill over medium heat
- Once grill is ready, put skewers on grill, turn frequently so they cook evenly on all sides
- Cook chicken for about 8-12 minutes or until juices run clear
- Take off heat once cooked
Serving Your Dish
Serve your delicious Greek Chicken Souvlaki hot off the grill with freshly chopped vegetables such as ripe red tomatoes or red onions on top, served alongside a side dish like Israeli salad or roasted vegetables.
In addition, warm up some pita bread and serve alongside souvlaki skewers with a dollop of tzatziki sauce for extra flavor punch.
Enjoy your homemade Greek souvlaki at home whenever you like!
And just like that, you have created Restaurant-Quality meal right there in your own kitchen – full of flavors and nutrition that will rival any takeout meal!
Substitutions and Variations
Now that you’ve got a taste for the classic chicken souvlaki with tzatziki sauce recipe, let’s explore some substitutions and variations you can make to add your own unique twist to this Greek favorite.
Firstly, if chicken isn’t your thing, feel free to mix things up and try this recipe with pork tenderloin instead. Pork souvlaki is a popular alternative that is just as tasty and easy to prepare. You might want to adjust the cooking time if you go in for an alternate meat choice.
Another variation you can make is adding roasted veggies or an Israeli salad to your dish. Both of these options add a depth of flavor and crunch that will elevate your meal. Grilled veggies like zucchini or bell peppers are also a delicious addition.
If you’re looking for something lighter than pita bread but still crave carbs, try serving your souvlaki over rice or bulgur. This option is great for those on gluten-free diets. If you are not counting calories, pairing traditional Greek pita with it will never go out of style.
Lastly, if you’re feeling adventurous and enjoy experimenting with different flavors, try marinating the chicken in white wine or adding sweet paprika to the seasoning mix. These creative twists add an exciting and bold dimension to the dish.
Making simple substitutions or introducing creative variations can take this well-loved recipe to the next level! Get a feel for what works best for your palate by trying out these suggestions, You will be surprised how little adjustments can create exciting new versions of the traditional chicken souvlaki with tzatziki sauce recipe.
Serving and Pairing
Ah, the fun part! After trying this chicken souvlaki with tzatziki sauce recipe, you’ll be sure to want to serve it at your next Greek-themed gathering. It’s perfect for both casual and formal occasions alike when you want to impress your guests with something deliciously unexpected.
One option is to serve the chicken souvlaki skewers on a bed of roasted veggies like bell peppers, zucchinis, and eggplants. Add a sprinkle of fresh dill and squeeze of lemon juice for an extra zing. Alternatively, serve them with Israeli salad made of cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions dressed in olive oil and lemon juice – this is a not-to-be-missed side dish that complements the flavors of the chicken souvlaki perfectly.
For those who love carbs (and who doesn’t?), pita bread is an excellent vehicle for delivering the chicken souvlaki right into your mouth. You can also try topping it with crumbled feta cheese or mixing some sweet paprika with olive oil and serving it as a dip on the side.
Feeling adventurous? Pair this chicken souvlaki with tzatziki sauce with a glass of white wine or Retsina, Greece’s traditional white wine made from the resin-coated savatiano grapes. The crisp acidity of the wine balances out the rich creaminess of tzatziki while also enhancing the flavors of garlic, lemon, and oregano in the dish.
Whether it’s enjoyed in traditional Greek street food style or served on a fancy platter at your next fancy dinner party, this chicken souvlaki with tzatziki sauce recipe is sure to be an instant classic that will have people asking for seconds (and possibly thirds).
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Ah, it’s the behind-the-scenes information that truly sets one apart. Yes, just because a dish is tasty doesn’t mean it can’t also be convenient. In fact, prepping several servings ahead of time and storing them in the fridge for later meals has always been my go-to move. So, of course, I wouldn’t leave you without the necessary intel.
Firstly, as much as I love how fresh food tastes when immediately made, if you’re really crunched for time (because life happens), don’t stress too much about making souvlaki on demand. Chicken Souvlaki skewers can be prepared and marinated a day ahead (maximum), and that won’t harm you or your guests’ appetites or taste buds at all. However, when it comes to preparing the Tzatziki Sauce ahead of time, keep in mind that the sauce should be consumed within two days of being made to avoid spoilage.
Storing leftovers is easy peasy. You can leave the chicken souvlaki and tzatziki sauce separately in a covered container in your refrigerator for 3 days maximum. If you’re planning to reheat your chicken souvlaki, pop them into a preheated oven of 350°F until fully reheated through (usually 10-15 minutes). For the Tzatziki sauce, simply give it a quick stir before serving again.
One last tip: although it’s great fun to experiment with pairing different sides with this dish – think roasted veggies or an Israeli salad – one of my personal all-time favorites is adding my Chicken Souvlaki skewers to warm pita bread for an exquisite wrap sandwich experience.
Tips for Perfect Results
For the perfect chicken souvlaki with tzatziki sauce recipe, there are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind. With these suggestions, you won’t have to worry about your dish tasting anything but authentic and delicious.
First and foremost, be sure to marinate your chicken for at least an hour before cooking. This step allows the chicken to soak up all the flavors of the marinade fully. You can also marinate the chicken overnight if you want an even more intense flavor.
Another vital tip is to ensure that you use fresh ingredients, especially when it comes to herbs and spices. Fresh dill, oregano, and garlic will give your dish a more authentic taste than dried herbs.
When it comes to cooking the chicken souvlaki skewers, be sure not to overcook them. Overcooked chicken is tough and dry, so keep an eye on them while cooking. A sign of done-ness in your chicken is an internal temperature of 165°F or opaque juices.
Additionally, don’t forget to allow your meat to rest for a few minutes after cooking before serving. This rest time allows the juices from the meat to redistribute back into the flesh before being cut into.
Lastly, serve your dish with some classic and traditional sides such as Greek salad or roasted vegetables for that complete Greek culinary experience.
FAQ
Now that we have gone through every aspect of preparing this delicious chicken souvlaki with tzatziki sauce recipe, it’s essential to address some frequently asked questions that many readers may have. Let’s take a look at some of the questions that I’ve received in the past and provide you with comprehensive answers that will set you up for success in the kitchen! Read through these common queries to ensure your chicken souvlaki with tzatziki sauce comes out perfectly every time.
What country is chicken souvlaki with tzatziki sauce from?
Souvlaki is a popular Greek street food that is widely recognized as the national dish of Greece. The term souvlaki refers to skewered meat, which is often served on warm pita bread and garnished with delightful tzatziki sauce. The grilled meat is marinated to perfection and generates an incredible burst of flavor with every bite.
What is the difference between chicken gyro and chicken souvlaki?
When comparing Gyros and Souvlaki, the primary distinction lies in their cooking methods. Gyros are delicately sliced and roasted on a rotating spit, whereas Souvlaki is barbecued in small pieces. Even though Gyro meat is more infamous in the United States, Souvlaki’s appreciation is gradually growing.
What is souvlaki seasoning made of?
If you’re looking for a way to enhance the taste of your chicken, lamb, seafood or vegetables with a touch of Mediterranean flavor, then McCormick Gourmet Greek Souvlaki Seasoning is the way to go. Comprised of a bold combination of onion, garlic, oregano, and a hint of mint, this spice blend will effortlessly infuse your dishes with an authentic Greek taste.
What is souvlaki sauce made of?
This recipe requires a straightforward marinade that effortlessly mixes an array of flavors. With raw garlic being the base, you can expect a carousal of spices such as sweet paprika, herbaceous oregano, and fragrant rosemary to add depth to this Greek Souvlaki marinade. The marinade’s liquid element features a mix of excellent quality extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and a dash of dry white wine.
Bottom Line
with a Persuasive Text:
In conclusion, this recipe for Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce is a must-try for anyone who loves Greek food or just wants to try something new and delicious. With its perfect blend of spices, tender chicken, and creamy tzatziki sauce, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Not only is this recipe easy to follow, but it also offers numerous variations and substitutions that allow you to make the dish your own. You can serve it on skewers for a fun twist or create souvlaki bowls with roasted veggies for a heartier meal. The possibilities are endless!
And let’s not forget about the health benefits of this dish. The lean protein in the chicken paired with the refreshing cucumber yogurt sauce makes for a nutritious and satisfying meal that won’t leave you feeling guilty.
So what are you waiting for? Give this Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce recipe a try and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills. Not only will you have a delicious meal to enjoy, but you’ll also have an opportunity to explore the flavors and traditions of Greek cuisine.
Chicken Souvlaki With Tzatziki Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dry oregano
- 5 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 medium cucumber (for the tzatziki sauce)
- 1 garlic clove, minced (for the tzatziki sauce)
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (for the tzatziki sauce)
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill (for the tzatziki sauce)
- 1 pinch salt (for the tzatziki sauce)
- 4 pita bread (to serve)
- 2 small tomatoes, sliced (to serve)
- 1 red onion, sliced (to serve)
- 1 pinch salt (to serve)
- 1 pinch fresh ground pepper (to serve)
Instructions
- Start by preparing the marinade. In a bowl, whisk lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to mix really well and place the chicken and marinate for about 2 hours.
- In the meantime prepare the tzatziki sauce: Place cubed cucumbers in strainer set over bowl and mix with garlic, yogurt, and dill. Season to taste with salt. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Cut the chicken breasts into 2 cm pieces . Heat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Place chicken skewers on grill (or cook in batches on grill pan) until well browned turning evenly to cook on all sides, about 5 minutes total. (Adjust temperature of grill if necessary). Remove chicken to a serving platter and let rest 3 minutes. Meanwhile, briefly grill pitas and keep warm.
- To serve the chicken souvlaki (skewers), slice 1 red onion, 2 tomatoes and place on a platter. Put a thick line of tzatziki sauce down the center of the pita. Top with the cooked chicken, sliced onion and tomatoes. Fold the pita up like a taco to eat.
- Enjoy :).
- Check our recipe video on Youtube :
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ywvq0LWpxno.
- or visit our website :
- https://recipes.myst.gr.