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Mediterranean

Lemon Herb Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki

Charred, juicy skewers of yogurt-marinated chicken kissed with oregano and lemon, served with cool, garlicky tzatziki for a bright, smoky bite.

35 min4 servingsEasyMediterranean

Ingredients

  • 1,5 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 1,5 cup Greek yogurt
  • 4 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 4 tbsp lemon juice
  • 5 unit garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp dried oregano
  • 1 unit English cucumber
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0,5 tsp black pepper
  • 4 unit warm pita breads

Instructions

  1. 1

    In a large bowl, whisk 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, 3 tbsp olive oil, 3 tbsp lemon juice, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp dried oregano, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper until emulsified.

  2. 2

    Cube 1.5 lb (680 g) boneless skinless chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces and fold into the marinade, coating every surface. Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours, ideally overnight.

  3. 3

    Meanwhile, grate 1 English cucumber, salt lightly, and squeeze out excess liquid in a clean towel until nearly dry.

  4. 4

    Combine the drained cucumber with 1 cup Greek yogurt, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and 1 tbsp chopped dill. Season and chill.

  5. 5

    Thread chicken onto soaked wooden or metal skewers, leaving small gaps for even cooking.

  6. 6

    Preheat grill to medium-high (400°F / 200°C) and oil the grates until they shimmer without smoking.

  7. 7

    Grill skewers 3-4 minutes per side, rotating quarter turns, until deeply charred and the internal temperature reads 165°F / 74°C.

  8. 8

    Rest skewers 5 minutes under foil so juices redistribute, then serve with tzatziki and warm pita.

Chef's tip

Yogurt tenderizes chicken through gentle enzymatic action while its milk solids caramelize on the grill for that irresistible char without drying the meat.

Suggested pairing

Serve with a chilled Assyrtiko or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc and a simple tomato-cucumber salad.

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