Mediterranean
Lemon Herb Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki
Charred, oregano-scented chicken skewers with a cool, garlicky cucumber-yogurt sauce : smoky, tangy, and irresistibly juicy.
Ingredients
- 1,5 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 4 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 unit lemon, juiced
- 5 unit garlic cloves, grated
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 unit English cucumber
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 4 unit warm pita bread
Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, the juice of 1 lemon, 4 grated garlic cloves, 1 tbsp dried oregano, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp salt, and freshly cracked pepper until emulsified.
- 2
Cube 1.5 lb (680 g) boneless skinless chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces, add to the marinade, toss to coat, and refrigerate at least 1 hour (up to 8).
- 3
Meanwhile, grate 1 English cucumber, squeeze out excess moisture in a clean towel, then fold into 1 cup Greek yogurt with 1 grated garlic clove, 1 tbsp chopped dill, 1 tbsp olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Chill.
- 4
Soak 8 wooden skewers in water for 20 minutes, then thread the marinated chicken snugly onto them.
- 5
Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high (about 425°F / 220°C) and lightly oil the grates until they shimmer.
- 6
Grill skewers 3–4 minutes per side, rotating every quarter turn, until deeply charred and the internal temperature reaches 165°F / 74°C.
- 7
Transfer skewers to a platter, tent loosely with foil, and rest 5 minutes to redistribute the juices.
- 8
Squeeze a fresh lemon wedge over the skewers and serve with the chilled tzatziki, warm pita, and lemon wedges.
Chef's tip
Reserve 2 tbsp of unused marinade before adding the chicken, then brush it on the skewers during the last minute of grilling for a fresh burst of herby, lemony flavour without cross-contamination.
Suggested pairing
Pair with a crisp, unoaked Assyrtiko or a chilled rosé and a simple tomato-cucumber salad.
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