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Grilled Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce

Indulge in a refreshing and flavorful meal that combines juicy grilled chicken with a homemade tzatziki sauce. Perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners, these skewers are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. The zesty lemon and oregano marinade infuse the chicken with a delightful Mediterranean twist, while the creamy tzatziki adds a cooling element that balances the heat perfectly.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 4 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lemon juiced
  • 2 tablespoons dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 8 boneless skinless chicken thighs about 2 pounds, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 small zucchinis or 1 large, sliced into 1/4-inch moons
  • 1 red onion chopped
  • 1 pound cherry tomatoes
  • 1 cup prepared tzatziki store-bought or recipe as follows
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cucumber seeds removed & chopped fine
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
  • 4 cloves garlic finely minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and toss until they are evenly coated in the marinade. This mixture infuses the chicken with flavor while tenderizing it. Ensure the chicken is well-coated to prevent dryness during grilling. Allow the marinated chicken to sit for 30 minutes (up to 2 hours), occasionally tossing to ensure even distribution of flavors.
  2. Blot the chopped cucumber with a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture, ensuring it won't water down your tzatziki sauce. In a small bowl, gently combine the cucumber, Greek yogurt, fresh mint leaves, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed. This step is crucial as too much liquid can make the sauce watery and less creamy.
  3. Place the prepared tzatziki chicken skewers into a sealed container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to ensure they stay fresh. Store these in your cooler if you plan to prepare this dish ahead of time.
  4. This step is crucial as it prevents the chicken from spoiling and maintains the freshness of the tzatziki sauce, ensuring that when you're ready to serve, the skewers are still juicy and flavorful.
  5. Set up your grill or campfire to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F (190-200°C). Ensure it's hot enough for even cooking. You should see a good amount of steady, orange flames and a nice sear on the chicken skewers as they cook. Avoid using too much oil or fat that could flare up and cause smoke.
  6. Thread the chicken pieces and your choice of vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, or onions) onto metal or wooden skewers. Ensure each skewer is evenly balanced with alternating pieces to maintain even cooking. This step is crucial for a consistent cooking experience; make sure not to overcrowd the grill, which can lead to uneven heating.
  7. Place the skewers on the grill grate once it is ready. Grill for about 3-5 minutes per side, ensuring even cooking by turning every few minutes. The chicken should be cooked through and slightly charred, while the vegetables will become tender and slightly caramelized. Avoid overcooking to keep the flavors fresh.
  8. Carefully remove the chicken skewers from the grill or oven, ensuring they are cooked through and golden brown. Allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving. Arrange the skewers on a platter and serve with tzatziki sauce on the side for dipping. This allows the flavors to meld and ensures the meat is tender and juicy. Avoid overcooking the chicken, as this can make it dry and tough.

Notes

Recipe Notes & Guidelines
Serving These skewers pair wonderfully with a simple green salad or a side of roasted potatoes. For an extra touch, sprinkle some feta cheese on top before serving for added creaminess and flavor.
Storage Leftover chicken skewers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. The tzatziki sauce should keep well in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Pro Cooking Tips

  • Choose boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness and flavor. Look for plump pieces with a pinkish color and firm texture. You can marinate the chicken up to 2 hours in the refrigerator before grilling.
  • Select zucchinis that are firm and have a bright green color. Slice them into moons for even cooking on the skewers. If using a large zucchini, cut it lengthwise to ensure consistent thickness with the smaller ones.
  • Use full-fat Greek yogurt for the best texture and flavor in your tzatziki sauce. It should be thick and creamy without any lumps. If you can't find fresh yogurt, use a high-quality store-bought version as an alternative.
  • Choose firm cucumbers with a bright green color. Remove the seeds before chopping to prevent excess moisture in your tzatziki sauce. You can also use a cucumber that has been refrigerated for 30 minutes to help reduce its water content.
  • Always marinate chicken in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Ensure your skewers are well oiled before grilling to avoid sticking and burning.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should be at least 165°F).