Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce Bliss

Name: Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce Bliss
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cubed; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 lemons, juiced; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tsp oregano; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp pepper; 8 skewers; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 cucumber, grated; 1 tbsp fresh dill; 1 tbsp lemon juice

September 1, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite summer dish: Greek lemon chicken skewers with tzatziki sauce! There’s just something magical about grilling chicken on a hot day, the smoky aroma wafting through the air, making everyone’s mouth water. When you marinate the chicken in a zesty mix of lemon and Greek spices, it’s not just flavorful—it’s a flavor explosion that’ll transport you straight to a sun-soaked Mediterranean island! And let’s not forget the creamy, refreshing tzatziki sauce that perfectly complements the juicy chicken. Trust me, once you try these skewers, they’ll become a staple in your summer cookouts!

greek lemon chicken skewers with tzatziki sauce - detail 1

Ingredients List

1 lb chicken breast, cubed
1/4 cup olive oil
2 lemons, juiced
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
8 skewers (if using wooden ones, soak them in water for about 30 minutes)
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 cucumber, grated
1 tbsp fresh dill
1 tbsp lemon juice

How to Prepare Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce

Marinating the Chicken

First things first, let’s get that chicken marinating! In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Oh, the smell of garlic and lemon is already making my mouth water! Once that’s all mixed up, add in your cubed chicken breast. Make sure each piece is well coated in that zesty marinade. Cover the bowl with some plastic wrap and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial—trust me, it makes all the difference! If you have time, letting it sit for a few hours will deepen those flavors even more.

Preparing the Skewers

If you’re using wooden skewers, now’s the time to soak them in water for about 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning on the grill and keeps your chicken intact. While they soak, you can start threading the chicken onto the skewers. I like to alternate pieces of chicken with some veggies like bell peppers or onions if I have them on hand. It adds a pop of color and extra flavor! Just make sure not to pack them too tightly—this allows the heat to circulate and cook everything evenly.

Grilling Instructions

Alright, let’s fire up the grill! Preheat it to medium-high heat. Once it’s nice and hot, place the skewers on the grill, making sure to leave a little space between each one. Grill those beauties for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally to get that perfect char and ensure they cook evenly. You’ll want that lovely golden-brown color on all sides. And don’t forget to keep an eye on them—nobody likes dry chicken! You’ll know they’re ready when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Making the Tzatziki Sauce

While the chicken is grilling, let’s whip up that tzatziki sauce! In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture!), fresh dill, and a splash of lemon juice. Give it a good stir until everything is well mixed. This sauce is so creamy and refreshing, it’s the perfect dip for those skewers! You can chill it in the fridge until your chicken is done, so it’s nice and cool when you serve it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend cookouts!
Packed with vibrant flavors from the lemon and Greek spices that make every bite a delight.
Healthy and gluten-free, so you can enjoy a tasty meal without any guilt.
Great for meal prep—these skewers are just as delicious the next day.
Customizable! You can easily add your favorite veggies or switch up the protein.
The creamy tzatziki sauce adds a refreshing contrast that elevates the dish.
Perfect for impressing guests at summer barbecues, but simple enough for everyday meals.

Tips for Success

To make sure your Greek lemon chicken skewers turn out absolutely perfect, I’ve got some tried-and-true tips for you!

Marinate Longer: If you can, let your chicken marinate for at least 2 hours, or even overnight! This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, making every bite bursting with that delicious lemon and garlic goodness.
Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: Give each piece of chicken some space on the skewer. This helps them cook evenly and get that lovely char without steaming. Trust me, it’s worth it!
Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid any guesswork, use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures it’s perfectly cooked and juicy!
Let Them Rest: After grilling, let the skewers rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, making it even more tender and flavorful.
Experiment with Add-Ins: Don’t be afraid to mix things up! Try adding veggies like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or even mushrooms to your skewers. They grill beautifully and add extra flavor and nutrition!
Perfect Tzatziki Texture: For the best tzatziki, make sure to drain the grated cucumber well. Excess moisture can make your sauce watery, and we want it thick and creamy to complement those skewers perfectly!

Follow these tips, and I promise you’ll have a plate of delicious Greek lemon chicken skewers that will impress everyone at your table!

Variations of Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers

If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to switch things up, there are so many fun ways to customize your Greek lemon chicken skewers! Here are some of my favorite variations that’ll keep things exciting at your next cookout:

Switch Up the Protein: Instead of chicken, try using shrimp or firm tofu for a delightful twist. Just keep in mind that shrimp cook faster, so adjust your grilling time accordingly!
Go Veggie-Heavy: For a vegetarian option, load up the skewers with a rainbow of veggies! Bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and red onion all grill beautifully and soak up the marinade perfectly.
Mix in Some Halloumi: For a deliciously rich and salty flavor, add cubes of halloumi cheese to your skewers. It gets all melty and crispy on the grill—absolute perfection!
Add Fresh Herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary alongside the oregano for a fragrant boost. Just a sprinkle can elevate the flavor profile and make your skewers even more aromatic.
Spicy Kick: If you love a little heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to your marinade or toss some sliced jalapeños onto the skewers. It’s a great way to give your dish a spicy Mediterranean flair!
Incorporate Citrus: Don’t stop at lemon! Try adding orange or lime juice to the marinade for a different citrusy zing that pairs wonderfully with the chicken and tzatziki.
Sweet and Savory: For a unique combo, add chunks of pineapple or peach to your skewers. The sweetness caramelizes beautifully on the grill, creating a delightful contrast with the savory chicken.

These variations not only keep things interesting but also allow you to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Go ahead, get creative, and make these Greek lemon chicken skewers your own!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made a batch of these delicious Greek lemon chicken skewers and have some leftovers? No worries! Here’s how to store them properly so you can enjoy that amazing flavor even later.

First off, let the skewers cool down to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation in the container, which can make them soggy. Once cooled, transfer the skewers into an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them later, you can also freeze them! Just wrap each skewer tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last up to 2 months in the freezer.

When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is key to keeping the flavor and texture intact. If you’re using the microwave, place the skewers on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Heat them on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking to make sure they don’t overcook. You want them warm, but not rubbery!

For the best results, I recommend reheating on the grill or in a skillet. Just preheat your grill or pan to medium heat and add the skewers for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through. This way, you’ll regain that lovely grilled flavor and char that makes them so irresistible. And just like that, you’ve got a tasty meal ready to go, even days later!

Nutritional Information

So, you might be wondering about the nutritional goodness packed into these Greek lemon chicken skewers with tzatziki sauce! Here’s a typical breakdown for one skewer served with tzatziki, but keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes:

Calories: 220
Protein: 25g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 350mg

This dish is not only bursting with flavor but also provides a healthy dose of protein and essential nutrients, making it a great choice for a balanced meal. Enjoy every delicious bite, knowing you’re nourishing your body at the same time!

FAQ Section

Can I use boneless thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs can be a fantastic alternative. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful, so feel free to use them if that’s what you prefer! Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.

What if I don’t have Greek yogurt for the tzatziki?
No worries! If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use regular plain yogurt, but it’s best to strain it a bit to remove excess moisture. You want that thick, creamy texture for your tzatziki sauce to really elevate those Greek lemon chicken skewers!

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
Yes, you can! In fact, making the marinade a day ahead can deepen the flavors even more. Just store it in the fridge, and when you’re ready to grill, toss in the chicken and let it marinate. It’s a great time-saver!

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way to check is to use a meat thermometer. You’ll want the internal temperature to hit 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can cut into a piece of chicken to make sure it’s no longer pink inside and the juices run clear.

Can I make the tzatziki sauce in advance?
Definitely! You can prepare the tzatziki sauce a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before serving. The flavors will meld beautifully, making it even more delicious!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.