Name: Greek Chicken Souvlaki Skewers with Tzatziki Recipe
Prep time: 1 h 50 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 4 boneless chicken breasts (approx. 1 kg/35 ounces); 4 tablespoons olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 clove garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons dried oregano; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 1 cucumber, peeled and seeded; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 500 grams strained yogurt (18 ounces); 1-2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; Pinch of salt; Freshly ground black pepper to taste; 8 pita breads; Olive oil for brushing; 1-2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 tomato, sliced; 1 red onion, sliced; Fried potatoes (optional); Romaine (cos) lettuce (optional); Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 8-9 wooden skewers

If you’ve ever dreamed of taking your taste buds straight to a lively Greek taverna, then this Greek Chicken Souvlaki Skewers with Tzatziki Recipe is your new best friend. Juicy chicken, aromatic herbs, and refreshing tzatziki make this a feast worth sharing.

There are four metal skewers with grilled chicken pieces lying on a white plate. The chicken pieces are golden brown with visible grill marks and slight charring. On the left side of the plate, there are two lemon wedges placed next to some green dill sprigs. The plate is on a white marbled surface with a blue and white striped cloth underneath it on the left side and a few red cherry tomatoes visible in the bottom left corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki Skewers with Tzatziki Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki Skewers with Tzatziki Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Greek Chicken Souvlaki Skewers with Tzatziki Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I honestly can’t get enough of how simple yet flavorful these chicken souvlaki skewers turn out. Each bite bursts with that perfect balance of zesty lemon, garlic, and oregano, complemented beautifully by the cool, creamy tzatziki. It’s a crowd-pleaser every time!

Authentic Flavor: Traditional Greek herbs and fresh lemon juice make these skewers truly stand out.
Simple Prep: The marinade comes together quickly and works its magic in just 30 minutes.
Versatile Serving: Enjoy these with warm pita, sliced veggies, or wrapped up like a delicious sandwich.
Perfect for Gatherings: Makes about 10 skewers—great for sharing at any casual get-together or dinner.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this classic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Skewers with Tzatziki. Choose fresh, quality produce and some pantry staples you probably already have. Here’s why each component shines:

Flat lay of boneless chicken breasts with a few sprigs of dried oregano scattered nearby, a whole lemon cut in half showing bright yellow flesh, a small white bowl of golden olive oil, two whole cloves of garlic with papery skins intact, a small white bowl of creamy strained yogurt, a small white bowl containing pale red wine vinegar, a whole fresh cucumber partially peeled and trimmed, a ripe red tomato sliced into even rounds, a red onion sliced into thin rings, several whole pita breads stacked neatly, and a few crisp romaine lettuce leaves arranged symmetrically, all placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Boneless chicken breasts: Tender and lean, perfect for quick grilling and soaking up that zesty marinade.
Olive oil: Adds richness and helps keep the chicken moist while grilling.
Lemon juice: Brings brightness and tenderizes the meat with natural acidity.
Garlic (for marinade & sauce): Essential for authentic aromatic depth.
Dried oregano: The classic Greek herb that infuses the chicken with earthy flavor.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Basic, but important for seasoning the chicken and tzatziki.
Cucumber: Peeled and seeded to keep the tzatziki thick and refreshing, not watery.
Extra virgin olive oil: For the creamy, smooth consistency and authentic taste in the tzatziki.
Strained yogurt: Thick and creamy, it’s the base of the tangy tzatziki sauce.
Red wine vinegar: Adds a subtle tang in the tzatziki, balancing the richness.
Pita breads: Warmed and lightly seasoned to scoop up every bit of chicken and sauce.
Tomato and red onion slices: Fresh accompaniments that add crunch and vibrant flavor.
Fried potatoes (optional): A crispy, indulgent addition that makes your wrap extra special.
Romaine lettuce (optional): Adds a fresh, crisp bite to balance the rich chicken and sauce.
Wooden skewers: Essential for grilling the chicken in juicy, bite-sized pieces.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the joys of the Greek Chicken Souvlaki Skewers with Tzatziki Recipe is how adaptable it is. Whether you want to keep it classic or add your personal twist, there’s plenty of room to tailor this dish to your taste buds or dietary needs.

Variation: I love swapping out chicken breasts for thighs occasionally. Thighs bring a bit more richness and juiciness without losing that perfect grilled flavor.
Vegetarian Version: For friends who don’t eat meat, grilled halloumi or marinated portobello mushrooms on skewers make a fantastic alternative, paired with the same homemade tzatziki.
Spice It Up: Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes to the marinade can bring a smoky warmth that’s especially delightful on cooler evenings.
Seasonal Add-ons: Toss some grilled bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant alongside the skewers for a colorful, veggie-packed meal.
Health Conscious: Use low-fat Greek yogurt in the tzatziki to keep it light and just as refreshing.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki Skewers with Tzatziki Recipe

The image shows two metal skewers with grilled chicken pieces that are golden brown with some darker charred spots, arranged diagonally on a white plate. On the right side of the plate, there is a fresh salad made of green cucumber slices, red cherry tomato halves, white chunks of cheese, thin slices of red onion, and dark olives, all mixed together. On the left side of the plate, there are folded pieces of light beige pita bread beside two bright yellow lemon wedges. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with part of a blue and white striped cloth visible at the bottom. In the top background, a white bowl with a creamy herb sauce can be seen. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor

Start by cutting your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, about 2-3 cm each. Toss them in a bowl with 4 tablespoons of olive oil, the juice of one fresh lemon, minced garlic, dried oregano, and a good pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. I like to use my hands here—it helps evenly coat every piece with the marinade. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and let your chicken chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, up to an hour. This waiting time lets the lemon and oregano infuse into the meat, making your skewers irresistibly flavorful.

Step 2: Craft the Creamy, Refreshing Tzatziki Sauce

While the chicken soaks up the marinade, peel and seed your cucumber, then grate it into a bowl. Season it lightly with salt and pepper, then let it sit for 10 minutes to release excess water. To avoid a watery tzatziki, wrap the grated cucumber in a clean towel and squeeze out any remaining moisture—this step really makes a difference. In a blender, mix the extra virgin olive oil with minced garlic until smooth, then combine that with the cucumber, strained yogurt, 1 to 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar, and a pinch of salt. Blend everything well, then pop the tzatziki into the fridge to chill. Keeping it cold enhances its refreshing zing when served.

Step 3: Thread and Soak Your Skewers

Trim your wooden skewers to fit your grill or griddle pan comfortably. This is key for easy turning and cooking. To prevent any flare-ups or burning, soak the skewers in water for at least 10 minutes before threading on the marinated chicken pieces—with enough space between each piece so the heat can work its magic evenly.

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

Heat your grill or griddle pan until it’s nice and hot—high heat is crucial here to get that golden sear and juicy interior. Place your skewers on, cooking them for about 8 to 10 minutes, turning every couple of minutes. You’re aiming for a beautifully browned exterior and cooked-through chicken. The aroma at this stage is heavenly—the lemon and oregano really come alive with that char.

Step 5: Warm and Season Your Pita

Preheat your oven to 250°C (that’s nice and hot!). Brush both sides of your pita breads with olive oil, sprinkle evenly with salt and dried oregano. Place an upside-down oven tray on the bottom rack and lay your pita breads on top—this trick prevents burning and allows the heat to circulate evenly. Bake for just 2 minutes—you want warm, pliable bread perfect for wrapping but not crispy. If you prefer, a griddle pan or grill works beautifully for warming as well.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve with Love

Slice red onions thinly and arrange them on a serving platter. Lay your freshly grilled chicken souvlaki skewers on top, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Serve immediately with warm pita breads and a generous spoonful of chilled tzatziki sauce. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, spread tzatziki inside the pita, add chicken skewers, sliced tomatoes, onions, maybe some fried potatoes or crisp romaine lettuce, then wrap it up for a handheld feast. This is when the magic truly happens—every bite bursting with authentic Mediterranean flavor.

Top Tip

Unlock the full potential of your Greek Chicken Souvlaki Skewers with Tzatziki Recipe by keeping these handy tips in mind – they’ll help you master the flavors and textures every time!

Marinate with Care: I always make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but no longer than an hour, to keep the meat tender and bursting with that classic oregano-lemon flavor without it turning mushy.
Soak Your Skewers: From experience, soaking wooden skewers in water before threading the chicken is a must—it prevents them from catching fire and adds peace of mind while grilling.
Don’t Skip Squeezing the Cucumber: I learned that squeezing the grated cucumber thoroughly really thickens the tzatziki sauce, so it stays creamy and not watery on your skewers and pita.
High Heat Grilling: Using a hot grill or griddle pan ensures those beautiful char marks and a juicy center. Turning the skewers regularly avoids burning but helps get that perfect golden exterior.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki Skewers with Tzatziki Recipe

A metal skewer holding four pale pink pieces of raw chicken, each piece coated with small green herb flakes and bits of garlic, laid in a straight line on white parchment paper. The chicken pieces have a moist and slightly shiny texture, reflecting light softly. The skewer is placed horizontally on a rustic wooden surface, but the surface should be imagined as white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

For an authentic touch, serve the skewers on a platter garnished with freshly sliced red onions, juicy tomato slices, and a sprinkle of dried oregano. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a fresh squeeze of lemon juice elevates the flavors beautifully. Adding crisp romaine lettuce can give your wraps a delightful crunch and freshness.

Side Dishes

Classic Greek fried potatoes are a gorgeous side that complements the souvlaki perfectly. Warm pita breads brushed lightly with olive oil and sprinkled with oregano are essential. To keep things light, a simple Greek salad or even grilled vegetables would pair wonderfully for a well-rounded Mediterranean meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken souvlaki skewers and tzatziki in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken keeps well for up to 2 days, while the tzatziki remains fresh and creamy for up to 3 days.

Freezing

If you want to freeze the cooked chicken skewers, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. However, it’s best to freeze the chicken without the pita or tzatziki, as the sauce doesn’t freeze well.

Reheating

For the juiciest results, reheat chicken skewers gently on a grill or in a griddle pan over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed through — about 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the chicken. Serve the chilled tzatziki alongside for that cool, refreshing contrast.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use other meats instead of chicken for this souvlaki recipe?

Absolutely! While this recipe features classic chicken, you can substitute pork, lamb, or beef cubes. Just adjust the marinating and cooking times accordingly, ensuring the meat is cooked through and tender.

How long can I marinate the chicken for best results?

Marinating for at least 30 minutes is essential to infuse flavor and tenderize the meat, but don’t exceed 1 hour; too long can cause the chicken to become mushy due to the acidic lemon juice.

What’s the best way to prevent skewers from burning on the grill?

Soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 10 minutes before threading the chicken helps prevent burning. Also, keeping the grill temperature high but turning skewers regularly avoids scorching the wood or the chicken.

Can I make the tzatziki sauce ahead of time?

Yes! Tzatziki sauce tastes even better when made a few hours in advance or the day before, allowing the flavors to meld. Store it refrigerated and serve chilled alongside your warm skewers.

Final Thoughts

This Greek Chicken Souvlaki Skewers with Tzatziki Recipe really brings a little slice of the Mediterranean to your table. It’s simple, fresh, and utterly delicious — perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to lively family gatherings. The combination of tender, herby chicken and cool, creamy tzatziki wrapped in warm pita bread is a crowd-pleaser every time. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this recipe as much as I do!