Zesty Greek Chicken Skewers with Yogurt Sauce Recipe

Greek chicken skewers bring vibrant Mediterranean flavors to your dinner table with their tantalizing blend of herbs and spices.

Marinated meat converts ordinary ingredients into a culinary experience that transports you to sun-drenched coastal regions.

Tender chunks of protein absorb robust seasonings, creating a delightful harmony of taste and texture.

The accompanying yogurt sauce adds a cool, creamy counterpoint that elevates each perfectly grilled bite.

Light and refreshing, these skewers offer a nutritious meal that feels both elegant and comfortably familiar.

Authentic ingredients and simple techniques make this dish accessible to home cooks seeking international inspiration.

The combination of zesty marinade and smooth sauce promises a delectable dining adventure.

A Skewer That Packs Flavor in Every Bite

• Burst with Zesty Flavors: These Greek chicken skewers pack a punch of tangy lemon, aromatic oregano, and spicy Maras pepper, creating a vibrant taste explosion that dances on your taste buds.
• Master Easy Mediterranean Grilling: The recipe offers simple, foolproof cooking methods whether you prefer outdoor grilling or stovetop cooking, making it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels.
• Enjoy Versatile Serving Options: Perfectly designed for casual gatherings, quick weeknight dinners, or summer parties, these skewers can be served with multiple accompaniments like pita, fresh vegetables, and herbs for a complete meal experience.
• Elevate with Quick Creamy Sauce: The homemade yogurt-tahini sauce adds a luxurious, cooling element that perfectly balances the spicy, grilled chicken, transforming a simple dish into a restaurant-quality meal.

Ingredients for These Greek-Inspired Grilled Beauties

• Chicken: Lean protein that absorbs marinade flavors, choose boneless and skinless for easy skewering.

• Lemon Zest, Lemon Juice: Bright citrus flavor that tenderizes chicken and adds freshness.
• Oregano: Classic Greek herb with earthy and slightly peppery notes.
• Garlic: Aromatic base that provides deep savory flavor.
• Maras Pepper, Cayenne, Paprika: Adds warm, complex spiciness with different heat levels.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance overall taste.

• Olive Oil: Smooth Mediterranean oil that helps distribute marinade and provides richness.

• Yogurt: Creamy base with tangy flavor, preferably Greek-style for thickness.
• Tahini: Nutty sesame paste that adds depth to yogurt sauce.

• Pita Bread: Soft flatbread for wrapping or serving alongside chicken.
• Cherry Tomatoes, Cucumber, Red Onion: Fresh vegetables for added crunch and color.
• Arugula, Mint Leaves: Peppery and fresh herbs for garnish and brightness.

How to Cook and Serve Chicken Skewers With Sauce

Step 1: Craft the Flavor-Packed Marinade

• Lemon zest
• Lemon juice
• Dried oregano
• Minced garlic
• Maras pepper (or cayenne and paprika blend)
• Salt
• Black pepper

Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking to create a smooth marinade.

Step 2: Infuse the Chicken

Set aside 1/4 cup of marinade for later serving. Toss chicken pieces into the remaining marinade, ensuring complete coverage. Seal and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 2 hours.

Step 3: Whip Up Creamy Yogurt Sauce

• Tahini
• Greek yogurt

• Lemon juice
• Salt
• Black pepper

Taste and adjust seasonings as needed for a tangy, creamy finish.

Step 4: Grill Preparation

Choose your cooking method:

• Soak bamboo skewers in warm water
• Light charcoal or set gas grill to medium-high
• Oil grill grates
• Thread marinated chicken onto skewers

• Heat cast iron grill pan to medium-high
• Ensure pan is smoking hot
• Turn on vent or open windows

Step 5: Cooking the Chicken

• Grill skewers for 3-4 minutes
• Rotate occasionally
• Cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F

• Add oil to hot grill pan
• Cook chicken in batches
• Turn frequently with tongs
• Grill for 4-6 minutes
• Ensure internal temperature of 165°F

Step 6: Serve with Flair

• Grilled chicken skewers
• Warm pita bread
• Fresh cherry tomatoes
• Cucumber slices
• Thinly sliced red onion
• Arugula leaves
• Fresh mint leaves

Accompany with reserved marinade and yogurt sauce on the side.

Tips for Juicy Meat and Creamy Yogurt Dip

• Maximize Flavor Depth: Marinate chicken for the full 2 hours to allow herbs and spices to deeply penetrate the meat, creating more intense taste.
• Ensure Even Cooking: Thread chicken pieces uniformly on skewers to guarantee consistent heat distribution and prevent uneven grilling.
• Perfect Grill Temperature: Use medium-high heat to achieve beautiful caramelization without burning the exterior while maintaining juicy interiors.
• Prevent Cross-Contamination: Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw chicken, and always wash hands thoroughly after handling.
• Sauce Balance Technique: Taste yogurt sauce incrementally while adding lemon juice, salt, and pepper to achieve the perfect tangy-creamy harmony.

Best Way to Store and Reheat the Combo

• Refrigerate: Transfer leftover chicken skewers to an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Separate Storage: Keep yogurt sauce and chicken in different containers to maintain freshness and prevent soggy skewers.
• Reheat Gently: Warm chicken in a skillet over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes, adding a splash of water to prevent drying. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, checking temperature to avoid overcooking. Serve with fresh yogurt sauce for best flavor.

Pairing Options That Round Out the Meal

• Pair with Zesty White Wine: Crisp, light Greek or Mediterranean white wines like Assyrtiko or Moschofilero perfectly complement the tangy marinade and cut through the richness of grilled chicken.
• Match with Refreshing Greek Salad: Create a side of traditional Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, feta cheese, and olives to enhance the Mediterranean flavors and add fresh, crunchy texture to the meal.
• Serve with Cool Tzatziki Accompaniment: The yogurt sauce already prepared provides a creamy, herbal counterpoint to the grilled chicken, but adding extra tzatziki as a dipping sauce can elevate the entire dish's flavor profile.
• Recommend Ouzo or Aperol Spritz: For a traditional Greek drinking experience, serve a small glass of anise-flavored ouzo or a lighter Aperol spritz to cleanse the palate and add a festive touch to the meal.

Marinade Swaps and Skewer Combos to Try

• Mediterranean Shish Kebab Style: Replace chicken with lamb chunks, add bell peppers and zucchini between meat pieces, maintain original marinade for authentic Mediterranean flavor.
• Spicy Moroccan Chicken Version: Incorporate harissa paste into marinade, replace Maras pepper with additional cayenne, add cumin and coriander for intense North African spice profile.
• Herb-Infused Summer Skewers: Swap oregano with fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme, include lemon verbena in marinade, use lighter white meat for a fresher summer interpretation.
• Vegetarian Greek Platter Alternative: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or halloumi cheese, keep identical yogurt sauce and marinade technique, grill vegetarian protein until golden and slightly charred.

Greek Chicken Skewers with Yogurt Sauce Recipe

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4.8 from 34 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Mediterranean magic meets grilled perfection in these Greek chicken skewers, marinated with zesty herbs and lemon. Succulent chicken pieces drizzled with creamy yogurt sauce promise a delightful journey through classic Greek flavors you’ll savor with each delicious bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Proteins:

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 3 cloves garlic

Vegetables and Herbs:

• 12 cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 Persian cucumber, thinly sliced
• ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup packed arugula
• 3 to 4 sprigs mint leaves
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano

Breads and Condiments:

• 4 (6-inch) pita breads
• ½ cup greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon ground cumin

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Instructions

1. Craft a zesty marinade by whisking lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, garlic, Maras pepper, salt, and pepper together in a medium bowl, gradually incorporating olive oil until well combined.
2. Reserve 1/4 cup of marinade for later serving, then immerse chicken pieces in the remaining mixture, ensuring thorough coating. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours to allow flavors to penetrate deeply.
3. Prepare the creamy yogurt sauce by blending tahini and yogurt until silky smooth, then introduce lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasonings to taste, creating a balanced and tangy accompaniment.
4. If using an outdoor grill, soak bamboo skewers in warm water or select metal alternatives. Preheat grill to medium-high and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
5. Thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, ensuring even distribution and secure placement.
6. Grill the skewered chicken, rotating periodically to achieve a beautiful sear and ensure even cooking. Cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F and exterior develops a golden-brown crust.
7. For stovetop preparation, heat a cast iron grill pan until smoking hot. Add a touch of oil and cook chicken in batches, turning frequently to prevent burning and promote uniform cooking.
8. Plate the succulent skewers on a large serving platter, accompanied by warm pita bread, vibrant cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber slices, sharp red onion, peppery arugula, and fresh mint leaves.
9. Drizzle reserved marinade over the chicken and serve the tangy yogurt sauce alongside, allowing guests to customize their culinary experience.

Notes

• Marinate chicken for maximum flavor by letting it sit in the mixture for up to 2 hours, which allows the lemon and herbs to deeply penetrate the meat.
• Use Maras pepper or a combination of cayenne and paprika to add a subtle, warm heat that complements the tangy marinade.
• Ensure chicken is fully cooked by checking the internal temperature reaches 165°F, preventing any risk of foodborne illness while maintaining juicy meat.
• Create a perfect char and smoky flavor by using a hot grill pan or outdoor grill, turning skewers occasionally for even cooking and beautiful grill marks.
• Customize serving style by offering fresh accompaniments like pita, vegetables, and herbs, allowing guests to build their own delicious Mediterranean-style plate.
• Save a portion of the marinade before adding raw chicken to use as a flavorful drizzle when serving, enhancing the overall taste profile of the dish.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 320 mg
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 36 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 9 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg