I recently made this Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce recipe for a weekend dinner, and honestly, it turned out better than I expected. The chicken was juicy, smoky, and packed with fresh lemon and herb flavor.

What really made me love this recipe was the creamy homemade tzatziki sauce that balanced everything perfectly. I served it with warm pita bread and a simple salad, and everyone kept asking for seconds. If you enjoy fresh Mediterranean flavors and easy grilled meals, this recipe is definitely worth trying.

Ingredients

This recipe uses simple ingredients, but each one adds authentic Greek flavor and helps create tender, flavorful chicken.

For the Chicken Souvlaki

• 2 pounds boneless chicken breast or chicken thighs, cut into chunks – Chicken thighs stay extra juicy, but chicken breast works great for a leaner option.
• ¼ cup olive oil – Use good-quality olive oil for the best Mediterranean flavor.
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice – Fresh lemon juice tenderizes the chicken beautifully.
• 4 garlic cloves, minced – Fresh garlic gives a stronger and richer taste than garlic powder.
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano – Classic Greek seasoning that adds earthy flavor.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds warmth and light smokiness.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Gives extra herb flavor and depth.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Helps season the chicken evenly.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – Freshly cracked pepper tastes best.
• Wooden or metal skewers – Wooden skewers should be soaked in water before grilling.

For the Tzatziki Sauce

• 1 cup Greek yogurt – Thick Greek yogurt makes the sauce creamy and rich.
• ½ cucumber, grated and squeezed dry – Removing water prevents a runny sauce.
• 2 garlic cloves, finely minced – Adds bold flavor to the dip.
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped – Fresh dill gives authentic Mediterranean freshness.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Brightens the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Makes the sauce smooth and silky.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors.

For Serving

• Warm pita bread – Soft pita wraps everything perfectly.
• Sliced tomatoes – Adds freshness and color.
• Red onion slices – Gives a little crunch and sharp flavor.
• Lettuce or cucumber slices – Optional but refreshing.
• Lemon wedges – Perfect for extra citrus flavor.

Note: This recipe serves about 4 to 6 people depending on portion size and side dishes.

Variations

You can easily customize this recipe depending on your taste or dietary needs.

• Use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast for extra juicy souvlaki.
• Replace Greek yogurt with dairy-free coconut yogurt for a dairy-free tzatziki sauce.
• Add fresh mint along with dill for a fresher and brighter sauce.
• Use shrimp, lamb, or tofu instead of chicken for a different protein option.
• Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper if you enjoy spicy flavors.
• Serve the chicken over rice or salad instead of pita bread for a low-carb meal.
• Add crumbled feta cheese on top for a richer Greek-style serving.
• You can also pair it with Baked Pears with Berries Honey Blue Cheese Recipe for a sweet and savory Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Cooking Time

This recipe comes together quickly and is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Marinating Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours
• Cooking Time: 12–15 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour

Equipment You Need

These kitchen tools help make the cooking process easier and smoother.

• Mixing bowls – Used for marinating chicken and preparing tzatziki sauce.
• Knife and cutting board – For chopping chicken and vegetables.
• Grater – Helps grate cucumber finely for the sauce.
• Grill or grill pan – Gives the chicken authentic smoky flavor.
• Tongs – Makes turning skewers easy while grilling.
• Skewers – Holds the chicken pieces together for even cooking.
• Measuring spoons and cups – Helps maintain accurate flavor balance.

How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe?

This recipe is simple to prepare and creates restaurant-style Greek flavors right at home. Follow these easy steps for juicy chicken and creamy tzatziki every time.

Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. The marinade should smell fresh and herby with a bright lemon aroma. This mixture helps tenderize the chicken while adding authentic Greek flavor.

Add the chicken pieces into the marinade and toss well so every piece gets coated evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. If you have extra time, marinating for 2 hours gives even better flavor.

Make the Tzatziki Sauce

Grate the cucumber and squeeze out as much water as possible using paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. This keeps the sauce thick instead of watery. Fresh cucumber gives the sauce a cool and refreshing texture.

In another bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, dill, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt. Mix everything until smooth and creamy. Refrigerate the sauce while the chicken cooks so the flavors blend together beautifully.

Prepare the Skewers

If you are using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning on the grill. Metal skewers do not need soaking.

Thread the marinated chicken pieces evenly onto the skewers. Leave a little space between each piece so the heat circulates properly and cooks the chicken evenly.

Grill the Chicken

Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking. Once hot, place the chicken skewers on the grill carefully.

Cook the chicken for about 10 to 15 minutes, turning every few minutes until lightly charred and fully cooked inside. The edges should look golden with slightly crispy spots for the best flavor.

Warm the Pita Bread

While the chicken rests for a few minutes, warm the pita bread on the grill or in a skillet. Warm pita becomes softer and easier to fold around the chicken.

A slightly toasted pita also adds a delicious texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy tzatziki and juicy chicken. You can also serve these wraps alongside Spinach and Mushroom Quiche Muffins Recipe for a flavorful brunch-style spread.

Assemble and Serve

Spread a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce onto warm pita bread. Add grilled chicken skewers, sliced tomatoes, onions, lettuce, and cucumbers if desired. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

You can serve the souvlaki wrapped in pita bread or plate everything separately for a beautiful Mediterranean-style dinner spread.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

These little tricks helped me get even better flavor and texture when I made this recipe at home.

• I always marinate the chicken longer when possible because it makes the meat extra flavorful and tender.
• I prefer using chicken thighs when grilling outdoors since they stay juicy even if slightly overcooked.
• I learned that squeezing the cucumber really well is the secret to thick tzatziki sauce.
• I like adding a small drizzle of olive oil over the finished pita wraps for extra richness.
• I sometimes grill onions and peppers alongside the chicken for more smoky Mediterranean flavor.
• I always let the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes before serving so the juices stay inside.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe?

This dish looks beautiful and colorful when served with fresh Mediterranean sides. Warm pita bread, crisp salad, and creamy tzatziki make the perfect combination. You can also serve it family-style on a large platter with lemon wedges and fresh herbs.

For a complete Greek-inspired meal, pair the souvlaki with Greek salad, roasted potatoes, rice pilaf, or grilled vegetables. Garnish with chopped parsley, dill, or crumbled feta cheese for a restaurant-style presentation.

Nutritional Information

This recipe is packed with protein and fresh ingredients, making it both satisfying and nutritious.

• Calories: Approximately 420 per serving
• Protein: About 38g
• Carbohydrates: Around 18g
• Fat: About 22g

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is excellent for meal prep and tastes delicious even the next day.

Make Ahead

You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance for deeper flavor. The tzatziki sauce can also be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. This makes dinner preparation much quicker.

Storage

Store leftover chicken and tzatziki separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken stays fresh for up to 4 days, while the sauce stays good for about 3 days.

Freezing

The marinated uncooked chicken freezes very well for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before grilling. Tzatziki sauce is best enjoyed fresh and should not be frozen.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet, oven, or air fryer until warmed through. Avoid overheating because the chicken can dry out. Fresh pita bread and cold tzatziki help bring the dish back to life.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This recipe is simple, flavorful, and perfect for both weeknight dinners and gatherings.

• Easy to Make
  The marinade and sauce come together quickly using simple pantry ingredients. Most of the work happens while the chicken marinates.
• Full of Fresh Mediterranean Flavor
  The combination of lemon, garlic, oregano, and dill creates bright and authentic Greek flavors in every bite.
• Perfect for Meal Prep
  I love making extra chicken because it works great in salads, wraps, bowls, or sandwiches throughout the week.
• Customizable for Different Diets
  You can easily make this recipe low-carb, dairy-free, or gluten-free with a few ingredient swaps.
• Restaurant-Style Meal at Home
  The juicy grilled chicken and creamy tzatziki taste just like something from a Greek restaurant, but much more affordable.

This Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce recipe is the perfect combination of fresh, juicy, creamy, and smoky flavors. Whether you grill it outdoors in summer or make it indoors on a grill pan, it always turns out delicious and satisfying.

Ash Tyrrell

Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe

I recently made this Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce recipe for a weekend dinner, and honestly, it turned out better than I expected. The chicken was juicy, smoky, and packed with fresh lemon and herb flavor. What really made me love this recipe was the creamy homemade tzatziki sauce that balanced everything perfectly.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 6

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 pounds boneless chicken breast or chicken thighs cut into chunks – Chicken thighs stay extra juicy, but chicken breast works great for a leaner option.
• ¼ cup olive oil – Use good-quality olive oil for the best Mediterranean flavor.
• 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice – Fresh lemon juice tenderizes the chicken beautifully.
• 4 garlic cloves minced – Fresh garlic gives a stronger and richer taste than garlic powder.
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano – Classic Greek seasoning that adds earthy flavor.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds warmth and light smokiness.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Gives extra herb flavor and depth.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Helps season the chicken evenly.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – Freshly cracked pepper tastes best.
• Wooden or metal skewers – Wooden skewers should be soaked in water before grilling.
• 1 cup Greek yogurt – Thick Greek yogurt makes the sauce creamy and rich.
• ½ cucumber grated and squeezed dry – Removing water prevents a runny sauce.
• 2 garlic cloves finely minced – Adds bold flavor to the dip.
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill chopped – Fresh dill gives authentic Mediterranean freshness.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Brightens the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Makes the sauce smooth and silky.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors.
• Warm pita bread – Soft pita wraps everything perfectly.
• Sliced tomatoes – Adds freshness and color.
• Red onion slices – Gives a little crunch and sharp flavor.
• Lettuce or cucumber slices – Optional but refreshing.
• Lemon wedges – Perfect for extra citrus flavor.

Method

 

1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. The marinade should smell fresh and herby with a bright lemon aroma. This mixture helps tenderize the chicken while adding authentic Greek flavor.
2. Add the chicken pieces into the marinade and toss well so every piece gets coated evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. If you have extra time, marinating for 2 hours gives even better flavor.
3. Grate the cucumber and squeeze out as much water as possible using paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. This keeps the sauce thick instead of watery. Fresh cucumber gives the sauce a cool and refreshing texture.
4. In another bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, dill, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt. Mix everything until smooth and creamy. Refrigerate the sauce while the chicken cooks so the flavors blend together beautifully.
5. If you are using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning on the grill. Metal skewers do not need soaking.
6. Thread the marinated chicken pieces evenly onto the skewers. Leave a little space between each piece so the heat circulates properly and cooks the chicken evenly.
7. Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking. Once hot, place the chicken skewers on the grill carefully.
8. Cook the chicken for about 10 to 15 minutes, turning every few minutes until lightly charred and fully cooked inside. The edges should look golden with slightly crispy spots for the best flavor.
9. While the chicken rests for a few minutes, warm the pita bread on the grill or in a skillet. Warm pita becomes softer and easier to fold around the chicken.
10. A slightly toasted pita also adds a delicious texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy tzatziki and juicy chicken.
11. Spread a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce onto warm pita bread. Add grilled chicken skewers, sliced tomatoes, onions, lettuce, and cucumbers if desired. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
12. You can serve the souvlaki wrapped in pita bread or plate everything separately for a beautiful Mediterranean-style dinner spread.

Notes

• I always marinate the chicken longer when possible because it makes the meat extra flavorful and tender.
• I prefer using chicken thighs when grilling outdoors since they stay juicy even if slightly overcooked.
• I learned that squeezing the cucumber really well is the secret to thick tzatziki sauce.
• I like adding a small drizzle of olive oil over the finished pita wraps for extra richness.
• I sometimes grill onions and peppers alongside the chicken for more smoky Mediterranean flavor.
• I always let the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes before serving so the juices stay inside.