Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce are a flavor-packed culinary adventure that will make your taste buds dance. Picture tender, marinated chicken kissed by the sun, with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs combining to create a mouthwatering treat. And let’s not forget the creamy tzatziki sauce that brings it all together—it’s like a refreshing hug for your palate. For more inspiration, check out this Amish country casserole recipe.
This dish isn’t just about food; it’s about memories. I remember the first time I made these skewers for a summer barbecue, laughing with friends as we tried to figure out who could fit the most chicken on a skewer without it looking like a game of Jenga. The laughter, the delicious aromas wafting through the air, and the explosion of flavors made it an unforgettable occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This amazing Greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Ingredients for Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter lobster tail recipe.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is best—bottled juice simply won’t cut it when it comes to brightness.
- Greek Yogurt: Opt for plain, full-fat Greek yogurt to achieve that creamy tzatziki texture.
- Cucumber: Grate it and squeeze out excess moisture for a fresh crunch in your tzatziki sauce.
- Dill: Fresh dill adds an aromatic touch; dried can work in a pinch but won’t be quite the same.
For the Sauce:
- Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for dipping and drizzling.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by slicing the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and chopped herbs. lemon garlic butter chicken Toss in the chicken pieces and let them marinate in the fridge for at least an hour—this step is crucial for flavor!
Step 2: Prepare Your Grill
While your chicken is having its spa day in the marinade, fire up your grill or preheat your oven broiler. If grilling outdoors, ensure you have skewers ready (soak wooden ones in water first!). If using an oven broiler, line a baking tray with foil for easy cleanup.
Step 3: Assemble Skewers
Once marinated, take those flavorful chicken pieces and thread them onto skewers. Feel free to alternate with colorful vegetables like bell peppers or onions if you’re feeling fancy!
Step 4: Grill or Broil
Place your skewers onto the grill or under the broiler. Cook them for about 10-12 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), turning halfway through to get that lovely char.
Step 5: Make Tzatziki Sauce
While waiting for your chicken to cook, mix Greek yogurt with grated cucumber (squeeze out excess moisture), minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped dill, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Stir well until combined.
Step 6: Serve It Up!
Once cooked through and perfectly golden brown, remove skewers from heat. Transfer them to plates alongside a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce for dipping—trust me; you don’t want to skip this step!
There you have it! Your Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce are ready to delight everyone at your table. Enjoy every juicy bite while reminiscing about that one time you almost set off fireworks on the grill—but that’s another story!
You Must Know
- This amazing Greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfect results, start by marinating your chicken while prepping the tzatziki sauce. Sear the skewers for a crispy exterior, then finish cooking them through on the grill or in the oven. This sequence ensures juicy, flavorful Greek lemon chicken skewers.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or veggies for a delightful twist. Experiment with herbs like oregano or dill in the marinade, and add some feta cheese to the tzatziki for extra creaminess. Personalize it to suit your taste!
Storing & Reheating
Store your Greek lemon chicken skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring they stay juicy and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Marinate your chicken overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
- Use wooden skewers that have been soaked in water to prevent burning on the grill.
- Always let your meat rest after cooking to keep it tender and juicy.
Sharing this dish with friends brought back memories of laughter-filled summer evenings, where everyone raved about my Greek lemon chicken skewers while I pretended to be a culinary superstar!
FAQs :
What are Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce?
Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce are flavorful grilled chicken pieces marinated in lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs. This dish combines tender chicken with a refreshing yogurt-based tzatziki sauce made from cucumber, garlic, and dill. honey garlic chicken skewers These skewers are perfect for outdoor grilling or quick weeknight meals. The bright flavors of lemon and herbs make them a delicious option for any occasion.
How do I prepare the marinade for Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers?
To prepare the marinade for Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers, mix fresh lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Whisk until well combined. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and add them to the marinade. Make sure each piece is coated evenly. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to enhance the flavors before skewering and grilling.
Can I make Tzatziki Sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Tzatziki Sauce ahead of time! In fact, preparing it a few hours or even a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve with your Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers.
What sides pair well with Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers?
Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers pair wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving them with warm pita bread, a fresh Greek salad made with tomatoes and feta cheese, or roasted vegetables drizzled with olive oil. For a complete meal experience, add some rice pilaf or couscous seasoned with herbs to complement the skewers’ flavors.
Conclusion for Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce :
In summary, Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce offer a delightful blend of zesty flavors and tender chicken that appeals to many palates. The easy-to-follow marinade enhances the chicken’s taste while tzatziki adds a refreshing touch. easy chicken fajita quesadilla Preparing these skewers is simple and perfect for gatherings or family dinners. easy dinner recipes Enjoy this vibrant dish alongside your favorite sides for a complete Mediterranean experience that everyone will love!
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Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce are a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines juicy, marinated chicken with a refreshing yogurt-based sauce. Perfect for summer gatherings or cozy dinners, these skewers are easy to prepare and bursting with Mediterranean flavors, making them a delightful addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup plain full-fat Greek yogurt
- 1/2 medium cucumber, grated and excess moisture squeezed out
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, mix lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat your grill or oven broiler. Soak wooden skewers if using.
- Thread marinated chicken onto skewers. Optionally alternate with bell peppers or onions.
- Grill or broil skewers for 10-12 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), turning halfway through.
- In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Serve grilled skewers with tzatziki sauce on the side.
Notes
Marinate chicken overnight for enhanced flavor. Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for variations. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer (150g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
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