Introduction to Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki
When it comes to homemade meals, chicken souvlaki with tzatziki is not just another recipe—it's an experience! This flavorful dish hails from Greece and is a fantastic way to bring a slice of Mediterranean joy to your dinner table. The tender, marinated chicken grilled to perfection paired with the cool and creamy tzatziki sauce creates a harmonious balance that will impress anyone you serve it to.
Why Chicken Souvlaki is a Great Homemade Option?
There’s something rewarding about making your own meals, and chicken souvlaki checks all the boxes. First, it's versatile: you can serve it in wraps, over salads, or alongside rice. A perfect fit for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish is also healthy—packed with protein and delicious veggies.
Plus, making tzatziki at home is incredibly simple and requires just a few fresh ingredients, allowing you to customize flavors to your liking. As you marinate the chicken, think about how it'll taste when grilled, and don't forget that homemade tzatziki elevates every bite.
Want to explore other delightful Greek dishes? You can learn more about Greek cuisine to broaden your culinary horizons! Now, let’s dive into the recipe and get cooking!
Ingredients for Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki
Marinade
To kick off your chicken souvlaki with tzatziki journey, start with the marinade. You’ll need 1.5 lb (750 g) of chicken thigh fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking. Add two tablespoons of olive oil, a quarter cup of fresh lemon juice, three minced garlic cloves, and a couple of tablespoons of dried oregano. Don’t forget to season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
Chicken Skewers
Once marinated, thread your chicken onto skewers—about eight should do the trick. A drizzle of olive oil will be used for cooking them to perfection, whether on a stovetop skillet or the grill.
Tzatziki
For the tzatziki, gather two Lebanese cucumbers, 1¼ cups (300 g) of plain Greek yogurt, and add a couple of teaspoons of white vinegar for tang. Mix in a tablespoon of lemon juice, half a minced garlic clove, and season with salt and black pepper. This refreshing sauce is the star of the show!
Serving Components
Complete your meal with some flatbreads, lettuce, and sliced tomatoes. These not only add texture but also make every bite even more delightful. Discover more about the benefits of using fresh ingredients by checking this resource. Enjoy your cooking!
Preparing Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki
If you’re craving something fresh, flavorful, and a bit exotic, chicken souvlaki with tzatziki is the perfect dish to make at home! The marinated chicken skewers, combined with the cool and creamy tzatziki sauce, are sure to satisfy your taste buds. Let’s walk through the steps to create this delightful meal.
Prepare the Marinade
Marinades are essential for infusing flavor into your chicken. Start by combining the following ingredients in a bowl:
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- 3 minced garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoon dried oregano
- ½ – ¾ teaspoon salt
- Black pepper to taste
Once mixed, add in 1.5 lb of chicken thigh fillets (or if you prefer, chicken breast). Make sure the chicken is cut into bite-sized 1-inch pieces. If you want, you can also check out this marinade guide for different flavor profiles.
Marinate the Chicken
After preparing the marinade, toss the chicken pieces in to ensure they are well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight for the best results. The longer you let it marinate, the more flavorful your chicken souvlaki will be!
Assemble and Cook the Skewers
Once your chicken has marinated, it's time to thread it onto skewers. This recipe typically yields about eight skewers. Use any skewers you have lying around, wooden or metal work just fine. Before cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over high heat (or you could fire up the BBQ if you're feeling adventurous!). Cook the skewers for about 3 minutes on each side, or until they're golden brown and cooked through—don’t forget to check if they’ve reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Make the Tzatziki
While the chicken is sizzling away, it’s the perfect time to whip up your tzatziki. Start by cutting 2 Lebanese cucumbers in half lengthwise and scraping out the watery seeds. Coarsely grate the cucumber, wrap it in paper towels, and squeeze to remove excess moisture. Combine the grated cucumber in a bowl with:
- 1 ¼ cups plain Greek yogurt
- 2 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ minced garlic clove
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Black pepper to taste
Mix everything together and let it rest for at least 20 minutes so that the flavors can meld beautifully.
Serve with Flatbreads and Fresh Veggies
To bring it all together, serve your chicken souvlaki with warm flatbreads, pita, or wraps, along with fresh lettuce and tomato slices. These sides enhance the dish and make it a complete meal. If you're interested, try pairing it with a refreshing Greek Salad or a side of Greek Lemon Rice Pilaf for an authentic Greek feast!
This delightful combination of chicken souvlaki with tzatziki is sure to impress at your next dinner! Enjoy the cooking adventure and the scrumptious results!
Variations on Chicken Souvlaki
Adding Different Proteins
While chicken souvlaki with tzatziki is a classic, don’t hesitate to mix it up! Try using beef for a heartier option, or switch to shrimp for a delightful seafood variation. Each protein brings its own unique flavor and texture. Just remember, if you're using lean meats like turkey or shrimp, you may need to adjust cooking times to ensure they stay juicy and tender!
Vegetarian Alternatives
Craving a meatless meal? Grilled halloumi, marinated portobello mushrooms, or even zucchini skewers make fabulous substitutes. Toss in some marinated tofu for a plant-based protein boost. Pair these with the luscious tzatziki for a refreshing dip that complements the smoky flavors beautifully. For more vegetarian inspiration, check out seasonal recipes from sources like EatingWell.
Experiment with these variations and let your taste buds lead the way!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Chicken Souvlaki
Marinating Advice
For the juiciest chicken souvlaki with tzatziki, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 3 hours, or ideally, overnight. This not only imbues the chicken with flavor but also helps tenderize the meat. If time is short, even a quick 30-minute soak can make a difference!
Cooking Techniques
When cooking, opt for high heat—whether you're grilling on a BBQ or using a skillet—to achieve those beautiful char marks. Cook the skewers for about 3 minutes on each side, ensuring the chicken is cooked through. For added flavor, consider brushing a little olive oil on the skewers before cooking. Don't skip the tzatziki; it’s the perfect refreshing dip to take your dish to the next level!
For more tips on cooking chicken and perfecting your grilling techniques, check out this resource for expert advice!
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Souvlaki
Pairing with Sides
Elevate your chicken souvlaki with tzatziki by pairing it with delicious sides. Classic choices include warm flatbreads, crisp lettuce, and juicy tomato slices. You can also consider a refreshing Greek salad or lemon rice pilaf for a complete meal. Want to spice things up? Try grilled vegetables or a side of roasted potatoes seasoned with lemon and herbs. The right sides will not only enhance flavors but also create a colorful plate that invites everyone to dive in.
Presentation Ideas
When it comes to serving your chicken souvlaki, presentation can make all the difference. Arrange the skewers artfully on a platter, nestled among fresh greens and vibrant tomato slices. Serve the tzatziki in a pretty bowl with a drizzle of olive oil on top, surrounded by pita or flatbreads for dipping. Additionally, consider garnishing with chopped fresh herbs, like parsley or dill, which add a pop of color and flavor. A visually appealing dish is sure to impress your guests and make the meal even more enjoyable!
Time Breakdown for Chicken Souvlaki
Preparation Time
Expect around 10 minutes for prep. This includes measuring out your marinade ingredients and cutting the chicken.
Cooking Time
Cooking takes about 12 minutes—just enough time to get those skewers perfectly grilled and delightfully charred.
Total Time
Overall, you're looking at about 3 hours and 22 minutes. This allows for marinating overnight, adding flavor to your chicken souvlaki with tzatziki. Perfect for planning ahead!
For more detailed meal prepping tips and ideas on marinades, check out our guide on marinades here. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Nutritional Facts for Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki
Calories
Each serving of chicken souvlaki with tzatziki packs about 367 calories, making it a wholesome yet satisfying meal.
Protein
This dish is an excellent source of protein, delivering around 49.7g per serving. Perfect for those looking to boost their protein intake!
Sodium
With approximately 441mg of sodium, this flavorful dish fits well within daily dietary guidelines, allowing you to enjoy the savory taste without overdoing it.
For a deeper dive into healthy recipes, consider checking out sources like the Harvard Health Blog for expert insights!
FAQs about Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki
Can I use chicken breast instead of thigh fillets?
Absolutely! While chicken thigh fillets add a deeper flavor and remain moist during cooking, using chicken breast is perfectly fine. Just remember that breast can dry out more easily, so you might want to marinate it for a bit longer to keep it juicy.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover chicken souvlaki with tzatziki can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its life, freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Just thaw and reheat it gently, and you'll have a quick meal ready to go!
What can I substitute for Greek yogurt in tzatziki?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use regular yogurt, but it may be thinner. To thicken it up, strain it through a cheesecloth or coffee filter. Alternatively, you could try sour cream for a creamy twist! For more variations, check out this guide on yogurt substitutes.
If you have any more questions about the recipe, feel free to reach out!
Conclusion on Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki
In summary, chicken souvlaki with tzatziki is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Greece right to your table. This recipe is not only simple to make but also perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Enjoy the fresh, vibrant tastes that will impress everyone!
Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki
Equipment
- skewers
- large skillet
Ingredients
Marinade
- 1.5 lb chicken thigh fillets (or breast), cut into 1"/2.5cm pieces
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoon dried oregano
- ½ – ¾ teaspoon salt
- black pepper
To Cook / Serve
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Flatbreads / wraps / pita bread
- Lettuce
- Tomato slices
Tzatziki
- 2 Lebanese cucumbers (to make about ½ cup grated cucumber after squeezing out juice)
- 1 ¼ cups plain Greek yoghurt
- 2 teaspoon white wine vinegar (or red wine or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ clove garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (or more if you want richer)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- black pepper
Instructions
Marinade Preparation
- Place chicken and Marinade into a bowl and set aside to marinate for at least 3 hours to overnight.
Cooking Instructions
- Thread chicken onto 8 skewers.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over high heat (or BBQ). Cook skewers for 3 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
- Serve Chicken Souvlaki with tzatziki, flatbreads (make your own!), lettuce and tomato slices.
Tzatziki Preparation
- Cut the cucumber in half lengthwise. Use a teaspoon to scrape the watery seeds out. Coarsely grate the cucumber using a box grater. Then wrap in paper towels or a tea towel and squeeze to remove excess liquid.
- Place cucumber in a bowl. Add remaining ingredients then mix to combine. Set aside for at least 20 minutes for the flavours to meld.
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