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Crispy Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe Easy Homemade with Creamy Tzatziki Sauce

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A quick and easy recipe for crispy Greek chicken souvlaki paired with a creamy, tangy tzatziki sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ pounds (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup (240g) Greek yogurt, full-fat
  • ½ cucumber, peeled and grated
  • 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Pita bread or flatbreads, warmed
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
  • Optional: sliced red onions, tomatoes, or olives

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until combined (about 3 minutes).
  2. Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade bowl and toss well to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally up to 2 hours.
  3. Make the tzatziki sauce: Grate the peeled cucumber and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean cloth or paper towel.
  4. In a separate bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, chopped dill, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir well and chill until ready to serve (about 10 minutes).
  5. Thread the chicken: Preheat grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving space between pieces.
  6. Cook the souvlaki: Grill skewers for 4-5 minutes per side until crispy and golden brown, with internal temperature reaching 165°F (74°C).
  7. Rest the chicken: Remove skewers and let rest for 5 minutes to keep meat juicy.
  8. Serve: Warm pita or flatbread, place chicken souvlaki on top, add a dollop of tzatziki, and garnish with fresh parsley and optional toppings. Serve immediately.

Notes

Do not over-marinate chicken to avoid mushy texture; 30 minutes to 2 hours is ideal. Squeeze excess water from cucumber for creamy tzatziki. Use chicken thighs for juiciness and crispiness. High heat is essential for a crispy exterior. Let chicken rest after cooking. Soak wooden skewers to prevent burning. Can broil or cook on stovetop if no grill available.

Nutrition

Keywords: Greek chicken souvlaki, crispy chicken, tzatziki sauce, easy Greek recipe, Mediterranean chicken, grilled chicken skewers

Find it online: https://katedishes.com/crispy-greek-chicken-souvlaki-recipe-easy-homemade-with-creamy-tzatziki-sauce/