Mediterranean
Lemon Herb Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki
Charred, oregano-scented chicken skewers with a cool, garlicky yogurt sauce : bright, smoky, and irresistibly juicy.
Ingredients
- 1,5 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 4 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 unit lemon (juice and zest)
- 5 unit garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 unit English cucumber
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tsp white wine vinegar
- 4 unit warm pita bread
Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, whisk 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, the juice and zest of 1 lemon, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp dried oregano, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp salt, and ½ tsp black pepper until emulsified.
- 2
Cut 1.5 lb (680 g) boneless skinless chicken thighs into 1-inch cubes; toss in the marinade and refrigerate 1 hour (or up to overnight).
- 3
Meanwhile, grate 1 English cucumber onto a clean towel; squeeze firmly to remove excess water.
- 4
Stir the drained cucumber into 1 cup Greek yogurt with 1 minced garlic clove, 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill, and 1 tsp white wine vinegar. Season and chill.
- 5
Soak wooden skewers 20 minutes in water, then thread the chicken snugly onto them.
- 6
Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high (about 425°F / 220°C) until it shimmers with heat.
- 7
Grill skewers 3–4 minutes per side, turning to build a deep golden char, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F / 74°C.
- 8
Rest skewers 5 minutes so the juices redistribute, then squeeze extra lemon overtop.
- 9
Serve with the chilled tzatziki, warm pita, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Chef's tip
Reserve 2 tbsp of the marinade before adding the chicken and brush it over the skewers during the last minute of grilling for a glossy, herb-packed finish.
Suggested pairing
Pair with a crisp Assyrtiko or a chilled rosé and a simple tomato-cucumber salad.
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