Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce

Introduction

Grilled chicken skewers are a universal favorite, but when paired with a refreshing homemade tzatziki sauce, they become a vibrant Mediterranean-inspired meal. These Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce are tender, juicy, and infused with aromatic herbs and garlic. The creamy, tangy tzatziki made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, and fresh dill adds the perfect cooling balance.

This dish is light yet satisfying, making it ideal for summer barbecues, family dinners, or even meal prep for the week. It’s a wholesome and flavorful way to enjoy grilled chicken with a Greek twist.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s the perfect balance of flavor and freshness. The marinade makes the chicken incredibly tender and flavorful, while the tzatziki sauce gives a creamy, zesty contrast. I also love that it’s healthy, high in protein, and naturally low in carbs, making it a guilt-free indulgence. It’s also incredibly versatile—you can serve it with pita, on salads, or even over rice bowls.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Flavorful and Healthy: Juicy grilled chicken with a cooling yogurt dip feels indulgent but is nutrient-rich.
• Quick & Easy: Minimal prep, and the grill does most of the work.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, picnics, or family dinners—everyone loves food on skewers!
• Mediterranean Flair: Gives you a restaurant-style dish right at home.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 30 minutes marinating)
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~320 kcal per serving (including tzatziki)

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: Mediterranean / Greek
• Course: Main Dish / Appetizer

Ingredients

For the Chicken Skewers:

• 1 ½ lbs (700g) boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into cubes
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Wooden or metal skewers

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat or low-fat)
• ½ cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices.
2. Thread the chicken onto skewers.
3. Grill until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Prepare tzatziki sauce by mixing yogurt, cucumber, garlic, dill, lemon juice, and olive oil.
5. Serve hot skewers with chilled tzatziki on the side.

Step-by-Step Recipe Method

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

• In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
• Add chicken pieces, toss well, and cover.
• Marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours).

Step 2: Prepare Tzatziki Sauce

• Grate cucumber and squeeze out excess water with a clean cloth.
• In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, dill, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
• Chill in the fridge until ready to serve.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

• Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
• Thread marinated chicken onto skewers.
• Grill skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally until fully cooked (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).

Step 4: Serve

• Transfer skewers to a platter.
• Serve hot with chilled tzatziki sauce on the side.

How to Serve

• Serve with warm pita bread, Greek salad, or rice pilaf.
• Great as a party appetizer or light dinner.
• Drizzle tzatziki on top or use as a dipping sauce.

Recipe Tips

• Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
• Use chicken thighs for juicier results.
• Make tzatziki a few hours ahead for deeper flavor.

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade.
• Vegetarian: Swap chicken for halloumi or tofu.
• Wrap Style: Serve inside pita with lettuce, tomatoes, and tzatziki.
• Herb Twist: Add fresh rosemary or thyme to the marinade.

Freezing & Storage

• Chicken: Marinated raw chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw before grilling.
• Cooked Chicken Skewers: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat on a skillet.
• Tzatziki Sauce: Best fresh, but can be stored in the fridge for 2–3 days. Do not freeze tzatziki (yogurt separates).

Special Equipment Needed

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowls
• Skewers (wooden or metal)
• Grater (for cucumber)

Conclusion

The Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce are a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a restaurant-worthy Mediterranean dish at home. With tender, juicy chicken infused with herbs and a refreshing tzatziki dip, this recipe is both comforting and nourishing. Whether for a backyard barbecue, family dinner, or weekday meal prep, these skewers are sure to be a favorite.