Tzatziki Chicken Skewers are a delightful fusion of flavors that transport you straight to the sun-soaked shores of Greece. This dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also carries a rich history rooted in Mediterranean cuisine. Traditionally served as a refreshing dip, tzatziki has evolved into a versatile sauce that perfectly complements grilled meats, making it an ideal partner for succulent chicken skewers. I love how the creamy yogurt, crisp cucumber, and aromatic garlic blend seamlessly to create a refreshing contrast to the smoky, charred chicken. People adore Tzatziki Chicken Skewers for their incredible taste, tender texture, and the convenience of being a quick yet impressive meal option. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply looking for a weeknight dinner idea, these skewers are sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 medium cucumber, grated and excess water squeezed out
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes)
Preparing the Marinade
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, chopped dill, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. 2. Whisk the ingredients together until they are well combined. This will be both the marinade for the chicken and the sauce for serving. 3. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the tzatziki sauce in a separate bowl for serving later. Cover it and refrigerate until youre ready to serve the skewers.Marinating the Chicken
4. Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. This size is perfect for skewering and ensures even cooking. 5. Add the chicken cubes to the bowl with the marinade. Make sure each piece is well coated with the tzatziki mixture. 6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken to a resealable plastic bag. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but if you have time, marinating for 4-6 hours or even overnight will enhance the flavor.Preparing the Skewers
7. If youre using wooden skewers, make sure they have soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill. If youre using metal skewers, you can skip this step. 8. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If youre using a grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat on the stovetop. 9. Once the chicken has marinated, take it out of the refrigerator. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking. Aim for about 4-5 pieces of chicken per skewer.Cooking the Skewers
10. Lightly oil the grill grates or the grill pan to prevent sticking. You can use a paper towel dipped in oil and tongs to apply it. 11. Place the skewers on the grill or grill pan. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). 12. If you prefer a bit of char, you can cook them for an additional 1-2 minutes on each side, but keep an eye on them to avoid burning.Serving the Tzatziki Chicken Skewers
13. Once the chicken skewers are cooked, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist. 14. Serve the skewers on a platter with the reserved tzatziki sauce on the side for dipping. You can also garnish with additional fresh dill or lemon wedges for a pop of color and flavor. 15. These skewers pair wonderfully with pita bread, a fresh Greek salad, or even some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.Tips for Perfect Skewers
– For added flavor, consider adding bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or red onion to the skewers along with the chicken. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces and alternate them with the chicken on the skewers. – If you want a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes to the marinade. – If you dont have a grill, you can also bake the skewers in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through. Enjoy your delicious Tzatziki Chicken Skewers! Theyre perfect for a summer barbecue, a weeknight dinner, or even meal prep for the week ahead. The combination of the juicy chicken and the refreshing tzatziki sauce is sure to be a hit!
Conclusion:
In summary, these Tzatziki Chicken Skewers are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their grilling game while enjoying a burst of Mediterranean flavors. The combination of tender, marinated chicken and the refreshing tzatziki sauce creates a delightful balance that is sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, they are incredibly versatile! You can serve them with warm pita bread, a fresh Greek salad, or even over a bed of fluffy couscous for a complete meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding some colorful bell peppers or zucchini to the skewers for an extra pop of flavor and nutrition. You can also swap out the chicken for shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian option, making this recipe adaptable to any dietary preference. I encourage you to give these Tzatziki Chicken Skewers a try at your next gathering or weeknight dinner. I promise you wont be disappointed! And once youve made them, Id love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, variations, or even a photo of your delicious creation! Lets spread the joy of cooking together! Print
Tzatziki Chicken Skewers: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Your Next BBQ
- Total Time: That sounds like a fantastic recipe for Tzatziki Chicken Skewers! Heres a concise recap of the steps along with some additional tips to elevate your dish: ### Summary of Steps: 1. **Prepare the Marinade**: In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, fresh dill, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Set aside some marinade for serving. 2. **Marinate the Chicken**: Cut chicken into 1-inch cubes, mix with the marinade, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for more flavor). 3. **Prepare the Skewers**: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water. Preheat your grill, then thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers. 4. **Cook the Skewers**: Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). 5. **Serve**: Allow the skewers to rest briefly, then serve with the reserved tzatziki sauce, garnished with fresh dill or lemon wedges. ### Additional Tips: – **Vegetable Additions**: Add bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or red onions to the skewers for extra flavor and color. They can be grilled alongside the chicken. – **Spice It Up**: For a bit of heat, mix in cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the marinade. – **Oven Cooking**: If grilling isnt feasible, bake the skewers at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway for even cooking. – **Serving Suggestions**: Serve with pita bread, a fresh Greek salad, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. ### Enjoyment: These Tzatziki Chicken Skewers are perfect for summer barbecues, casual dinners, or meal prep. The juicy chicken paired with the refreshing tzatziki sauce is sure to delight your guests. Happy cooking!
- Yield: That sounds like a fantastic recipe for Tzatziki Chicken Skewers! Heres a concise recap of the steps along with some extra tips to elevate your dish: ### Quick Recap of Steps: 1. **Make the Marinade**: Combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, dill, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Set aside some for later. 2. **Marinate Chicken**: Cut chicken into 1-inch cubes, mix with the marinade, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for more flavor). 3. **Prepare Skewers**: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water. Preheat your grill, then thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers. 4. **Grill**: Cook the skewers on the grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through (165°F/75°C). 5. **Serve**: Allow the skewers to rest briefly, then serve with the reserved tzatziki sauce and garnish with dill or lemon wedges. ### Extra Tips: – **Add Vegetables**: Include bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or red onions on the skewers for added flavor and nutrition. – **Spice Variations**: For heat, add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade. – **Oven Alternative**: If grilling isnt feasible, bake the skewers at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway for even cooking. – **Complete the Meal**: Serve with pita bread, a Greek salad, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. ### Enjoyment: These Tzatziki Chicken Skewers are perfect for any occasion, from summer barbecues to cozy dinners. The juicy chicken paired with the refreshing tzatziki sauce is sure to be a hit with everyone. Happy cooking!
Description
These Tzatziki Chicken Skewers are a delicious and versatile dish perfect for any occasion. Marinated in a flavorful mix of Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and herbs, the chicken is grilled to perfection and served with a refreshing tzatziki sauce. Enhance your skewers with colorful vegetables or spice them up for an extra kick. Ideal for summer barbecues or casual dinners, these skewers are sure to impress!
Ingredients
That sounds like a fantastic recipe for Tzatziki Chicken Skewers! Heres a concise recap of the steps along with some additional tips to elevate your dish:
### Summary of Steps:
1. **Prepare the Marinade**: In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, fresh dill, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Set aside some marinade for serving.
2. **Marinate the Chicken**: Cut chicken into 1-inch cubes, mix with the marinade, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for more flavor).
3. **Prepare the Skewers**: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water. Preheat your grill, then thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers.
4. **Cook the Skewers**: Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. **Serve**: Allow the skewers to rest briefly, then serve with the reserved tzatziki sauce, garnished with fresh dill or lemon wedges.
### Additional Tips:
– **Vegetable Additions**: Add bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or red onions to the skewers for extra flavor and color. They can be grilled alongside the chicken.
– **Spice It Up**: For a bit of heat, mix in cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the marinade.
– **Oven Cooking**: If grilling isnt feasible, bake the skewers at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway for even cooking.
– **Serving Suggestions**: Serve with pita bread, a fresh Greek salad, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
### Enjoyment:
These Tzatziki Chicken Skewers are perfect for summer barbecues, casual dinners, or meal prep. The juicy chicken paired with the refreshing tzatziki sauce is sure to delight your guests. Happy cooking!
Instructions
That sounds like a fantastic recipe for Tzatziki Chicken Skewers! Heres a concise recap of the steps along with some additional tips to elevate your dish:
### Quick Recap of Steps:
1. **Make the Marinade**: Combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, fresh dill, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Set aside some for later.
2. **Marinate Chicken**: Cut chicken into 1-inch cubes, mix with the marinade, and let it sit in the fridge for at least 1 hour (or overnight for more flavor).
3. **Prepare Skewers**: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water. Preheat your grill, then thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers.
4. **Grill**: Cook the skewers on the grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through (165°F/75°C).
5. **Serve**: Allow the skewers to rest briefly, then serve with the reserved tzatziki sauce and garnish with fresh dill or lemon wedges.
### Extra Tips:
– **Add Veggies**: Include bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or red onions on the skewers for added flavor and nutrition.
– **Spice Variations**: For a bit of heat, mix in cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the marinade.
– **Oven Alternative**: If grilling isnt feasible, bake the skewers at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway for even cooking.
– **Complete the Meal**: Serve with pita bread, a Greek salad, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
### Enjoyment:
These Tzatziki Chicken Skewers are perfect for any occasion, from summer barbecues to cozy dinners. The juicy chicken paired with the cool, creamy tzatziki is sure to be a hit with everyone. Happy cooking!
Notes
That sounds like a fantastic recipe for Tzatziki Chicken Skewers! Heres a concise recap of the steps along with some additional tips to elevate your dish:
### Quick Recap of Steps:
1. **Make the Marinade**: Combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, dill, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Set aside some for later.
2. **Marinate Chicken**: Cut chicken into 1-inch cubes, mix with the marinade, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for more flavor).
3. **Prepare Skewers**: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water. Preheat your grill, then thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers.
4. **Grill**: Cook the skewers on the grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through (165°F/75°C).
5. **Serve**: Allow the skewers to rest briefly, then serve with the reserved tzatziki sauce and garnish with dill or lemon wedges.
### Extra Tips:
– **Add Veggies**: Include bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or red onions on the skewers for added flavor and nutrition.
– **Spice Variations**: For heat, mix in cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the marinade.
– **Oven Alternative**: If grilling isnt feasible, bake the skewers at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway for even cooking.
– **Complete the Meal**: Serve with pita bread, a Greek salad, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
### Enjoyment:
These Tzatziki Chicken Skewers are perfect for any occasion, from summer barbecues to cozy dinners. The juicy chicken paired with the refreshing tzatziki sauce is sure to be a hit with everyone. Happy cooking!
- Prep Time: That sounds like a fantastic recipe for Tzatziki Chicken Skewers! Heres a more detailed breakdown of the steps and some additional tips to ensure your skewers turn out perfectly: ### Detailed Steps: 1. **Prepare the Marinade**: – In a mixing bowl, combine **1 cup of Greek yogurt**, **1/2 cup of grated cucumber** (squeeze out excess moisture), **2-3 cloves of minced garlic**, **2 tablespoons of fresh dill** (or 1 tablespoon dried), **2 tablespoons of olive oil**, **2 tablespoons of lemon juice**, **1 teaspoon of salt**, **1/2 teaspoon of black pepper**, and **1 teaspoon of smoked paprika**. Mix well and set aside a portion for serving. 2. **Marinate the Chicken**: – Cut **1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts** into 1-inch cubes. Add the chicken to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least **1 hour**, but for best results, marinate overnight. 3. **Prepare the Skewers**: – If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least **30 minutes** to prevent burning. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking. 4. **Cook the Skewers**: – Place the skewers on the grill and cook for **10-12 minutes**, turning occasionally. Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of **165°F (75°C)**. 5. **Serve**: – Once cooked, let the skewers rest for a few minutes. Serve with the reserved tzatziki sauce and garnish with fresh dill or lemon wedges for an extra touch. ### Additional Tips: – **Vegetable Additions**: Consider marinating and skewering vegetables like **zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant** along with the chicken for a colorful and nutritious meal. – **Spice It Up**: If you enjoy heat, add **1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper** or **1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes** to the marinade for a spicy twist. – **Oven Cooking**: If you prefer baking, preheat your oven to **400°F (200°C)**. Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for **15-20 minutes**, flipping halfway through. – **Serving Suggestions**: Serve the skewers with **warm pita bread**, a **Greek salad** (cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, feta), or **roasted vegetables** for a well-rounded meal. You can also serve them as an appetizer with a side of tzatziki for dipping. ### Enjoyment: These Tzatziki Chicken Skewers are perfect for any occasion, from summer barbecues to cozy family dinners. The combination of juicy chicken and the refreshing tzatziki sauce is sure to be a hit. Enjoy your cooking and the delicious results!
- Cook Time: That sounds like a fantastic recipe for Tzatziki Chicken Skewers! Heres a more detailed breakdown of the steps and some additional tips to ensure your skewers turn out perfectly: ### Detailed Steps: 1. **Prepare the Marinade**: – In a mixing bowl, combine **1 cup of Greek yogurt**, **1/2 cup of grated cucumber** (squeeze out excess moisture), **2-3 cloves of minced garlic**, **2 tablespoons of fresh dill** (or 1 tablespoon dried), **2 tablespoons of olive oil**, **2 tablespoons of lemon juice**, **1 teaspoon of salt**, **1/2 teaspoon of black pepper**, and **1 teaspoon of smoked paprika**. Mix well and set aside a portion for serving. 2. **Marinate the Chicken**: – Cut **1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts** into 1-inch cubes. Add the chicken to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least **1 hour**, but for best results, marinate overnight. 3. **Prepare the Skewers**: – If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least **30 minutes** to prevent burning. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about **375°F to 400°F**). Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking. 4. **Cook the Skewers**: – Place the skewers on the grill and cook for **10-12 minutes**, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of **165°F (75°C)**. 5. **Serve**: – Once cooked, let the skewers rest for a few minutes. Serve with the reserved tzatziki sauce and garnish with fresh dill or lemon wedges for an extra touch. ### Additional Tips: – **Vegetable Additions**: Consider marinating and skewering vegetables like **zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant** along with the chicken for a colorful and nutritious meal. – **Spice It Up**: If you enjoy heat, add **1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper** or **1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes** to the marinade for a spicy twist. – **Oven Cooking**: If grilling isnt feasible, preheat your oven to **400°F (200°C)** and place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for **15-20 minutes**, flipping halfway through. – **Serving Suggestions**: Serve the skewers with **warm pita bread**, a **Greek salad** (cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, feta), or **roasted vegetables** for a well-rounded meal. You can also serve them as an appetizer with a side of tzatziki for dipping. ### Enjoyment: These Tzatziki Chicken Skewers are perfect for any occasion, from summer barbecues to cozy family dinners. The combination of juicy chicken and the refreshing tzatziki sauce is sure to be a hit. Enjoy your cooking and the delicious results!
