Greek Chicken Skewers

If you’re looking to add some Mediterranean flair to your dinner table, these Greek Chicken Skewers are just the ticket. With flavors reminiscent of a classic Chicken Souvlaki, this recipe is a delightful twist featuring a mint-forward tzatziki that might just steal the spotlight. Not only are these skewers incredibly tasty, but they’re also a breeze to make, earning a fan-favorite status in my household every time they’re on the menu.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the best things about these Greek Chicken Skewers is how quickly they come together, without sacrificing flavor. A mere thirty minutes of marinating is all it takes to infuse the chicken with the zesty and aromatic blend of lemon, garlic, oregano, and mint, all enveloped in creamy Greek yogurt. It’s a simple yet effective way to ensure the chicken is bursting with Mediterranean goodness.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium mixing bowl
• Grater
• Clean kitchen towel or paper towels
• Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 15 minutes)
• Grill or oven with broiler
• Foil-lined baking sheet (if using oven)

Ingredients

For the Chicken Skewers:

• 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons fresh mint, minced
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 15 minutes

For the Tzatziki:

• 1/2 medium seedless cucumber
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice, plus more to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh mint, minced
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Pitas, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine 3 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 4 garlic cloves, dried oregano, and 2 teaspoons mint. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Add the cubed chicken to the bowl and stir to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. For the tzatziki, peel and grate the cucumber. Squeeze out excess liquid using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and place in a medium bowl.
4. Add the yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and mint to the bowl with the cucumber. Season with salt and pepper, adding more lemon juice if desired. Cover and chill for at least 20 minutes.
5. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
6. Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked skewers, leaving about an inch of space at each end.
7. Grill the skewers over direct heat for approximately 8 minutes. Flip them and continue grilling until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 8-10 more minutes.
8. Serve the skewers with the tzatziki sauce and pitas. Enjoy!
9. To cook the chicken in the oven, place the skewers on a foil-lined baking sheet. Broil for 7-8 minutes per side until cooked through.

Tips for Success

• Make sure to soak the wooden skewers in water for at least 15 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
• For extra flavor, let the tzatziki chill longer, even overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
• If you’re short on time, you can prepare the marinade and tzatziki the night before.

Additional Tips and Variations

Feel free to experiment with different herbs in the marinade, such as thyme or rosemary, for a unique twist. You can also add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the skewers for added flavor and texture.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

These Greek Chicken Skewers are a nutritious option, packed with protein and healthy fats from the olive oil and Greek yogurt. They’re also low in carbohydrates, making them a great choice for a balanced meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more juiciness to the skewers.

Q: How long can I store the tzatziki sauce?

A: Tzatziki can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Q: Can I cook these on a stovetop grill pan?

A: Yes, a grill pan works perfectly if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill.

Conclusion

These Greek Chicken Skewers are a fantastic way to bring the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your home. Easy to prepare and undeniably delicious, they are sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your creations and any variations you come up with!