Print

Easy Juicy Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe with Homemade Tzatziki Sauce

Greek Chicken Souvlaki - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy Greek chicken souvlaki recipe featuring juicy marinated chicken thighs grilled to perfection and served with a creamy homemade tzatziki sauce. Perfect for casual gatherings and weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat)
  • ½ English cucumber, finely grated and drained
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Pita bread or warm flatbreads (optional)
  • Fresh lemon wedges
  • Chopped fresh parsley or extra dill for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using. This takes about 5 minutes.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Cut chicken thighs into 1 ½-inch chunks. Add to marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably up to 2 hours.
  3. Make the Tzatziki Sauce: Grate cucumber finely and squeeze out excess moisture. In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, chopped dill, lemon juice, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Chill for at least 15 minutes.
  4. Preheat Grill or Grill Pan: Heat over medium-high heat and brush with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  5. Thread Chicken onto Skewers: Skewer marinated chicken chunks, leaving space between pieces.
  6. Grill the Chicken: Cook skewers for 4-5 minutes per side until cooked through and grill marks appear. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  7. Rest and Serve: Let chicken rest a few minutes. Serve hot with tzatziki, warm pita, lemon wedges, and fresh herbs.

Notes

Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours or overnight for deeper flavor. Squeeze cucumber thoroughly to avoid watery tzatziki. Use metal skewers for even heating and easier cleaning. If no grill is available, bake chicken at 425°F for 20 minutes, turning once, then broil briefly for char.

Nutrition

Keywords: Greek chicken souvlaki, tzatziki sauce, grilled chicken, Mediterranean recipe, easy chicken marinade, summer grilling, healthy chicken recipe

Find it online: https://junomeals.com/easy-juicy-greek-chicken-souvlaki-recipe-with-homemade-tzatziki-sauce/