Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce and Greek Salad: A Complete Guide
Marinated skewers with creamy yogurt dip and veggies deliver bright Mediterranean flair.
Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce and Greek Salad
Transport yourself to the sun-soaked shores of Greece with a meal that brings together three iconic Mediterranean elements: chicken souvlaki, a creamy tzatziki sauce, and a refreshing Greek salad. This complete guide walks you through each step, from marinating the meat to assembling your salad, ensuring a symphony of flavors worthy of a Greek taverna table.
Why Choose Greek Souvlaki?
Souvlaki, meaning “skewer” in Greek, is a beloved street food celebrated for its simplicity, robust flavor, and convenience. Chicken souvlaki, in particular, features tender chunks of marinated poultry grilled to juicy perfection, served alongside crisp vegetables and tangy sauces. When combined with bright Greek salad and velvety tzatziki, it makes for a balanced meal full of protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
- Quick to prepare: Marination and skewering streamline the cooking process.
- Rich in Mediterranean flavors: Lemon, garlic, olive oil, and herbs infuse each component.
- Versatile: Ideal for weeknight dinners, backyard barbecues, or festive gatherings.
Essential Components
To master this meal, break it down into its three star elements:
- Marinated Chicken Skewers (Souvlaki)
- Homemade Tzatziki Sauce
- Classic Greek Salad
Ingredients
Chicken Souvlaki
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1 1/2-inch chunks
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Juice and zest of 2 lemons
- 4 large garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Tzatziki Sauce
- 2 cups full-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 large cucumber, peeled, seeded, and grated
- 2-3 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Greek Salad
- 4 medium ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges
- 1 English cucumber, sliced into half-moons
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced into thin rings or strips
- 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 3/4 cup pitted Kalamata olives
- 7 ounces Greek feta cheese, cut into slabs or crumbled
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1-2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Step-By-Step Instructions
1. Marinate and Skewer the Chicken
- Whisk olive oil, lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Add chicken chunks and toss to coat completely.
- Cover the bowl and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
- Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, packing pieces closely but not tight so heat can circulate.
2. Prepare the Grill
- Preheat a charcoal or gas grill to high heat (about 450–500°F / 232–260°C).
- Oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking.
- Place chicken skewers over direct heat.
3. Grill the Chicken Souvlaki
- Cook skewers, turning every 2–3 minutes, until chicken is nicely charred and reads 165°F (74°C) internally, 8–12 minutes total.
- Rest the cooked souvlaki 3–5 minutes before serving for optimal juiciness.
- Optional: Warm pita breads on the grill to serve alongside.
4. Make the Tzatziki Sauce
- Grate cucumber and squeeze out as much water as possible using a clean cloth or paper towel.
- Mix grated cucumber with Greek yogurt, minced garlic, fresh dill, olive oil, vinegar or lemon juice, and salt and pepper in a medium bowl.
- Chill for at least 15–30 minutes before serving for flavors to meld.
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5. Assemble the Greek Salad
- Combine tomatoes, cucumbers, bell pepper, onion, and olives in a large salad bowl.
- Drizzle with olive oil and vinegar; sprinkle oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Toss gently to combine.
- Add feta on top as slabs or crumbles, then finish with a final drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of oregano.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Souvlaki Meal
- For juiciest chicken, use boneless thighs or a mix of breasts and thighs.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent burning.
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or chili flakes to the chicken marinade.
- Customize the salad with capers, pickled peppers, or fresh mint if desired.
- Tzatziki can be made a day ahead—the flavors develop beautifully overnight.
Serving Suggestions
Souvlaki is traditionally served hot off the grill with sides and toppings to suit every palate.
- Serve chicken skewers over a bed of salad with pita wedges and tzatziki for dipping.
- Use grilled pita or lavash to create wraps, layering chicken, salad, and tzatziki.
- Pair with roasted potatoes, lemon rice pilaf, or grilled vegetables for a complete feast.
Nutritional Highlights
| Component | Approx. Calories | Protein | Carbohydrates | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken Souvlaki (per skewer) | 150–180 | 19g | 1g | 9g |
| Tzatziki (2 Tbsp) | 40 | 2g | 1.5g | 3g |
| Greek Salad (1 cup) | 100 | 2g | 5g | 7g |
Common Substitutions & Variations
- Alternative proteins: Try lamb or pork for authentic souvlaki, or tofu for a vegetarian twist.
- Vegan tzatziki: Replace Greek yogurt with plant-based alternatives like coconut or almond yogurt.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne or finely minced chili to the marinade for heat.
Make-Ahead and Storage
- Chicken: Marinated chicken can be refrigerated up to 12 hours before grilling.
- Tzatziki: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days; stir before serving.
- Greek salad: Best enjoyed immediately, but leftovers will keep for up to 2 days (drain excess liquid before serving to avoid sogginess).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I bake or broil the souvlaki if I don’t have a grill?
A: Yes, arrange skewers on a foil-lined baking sheet and broil on high, turning once, until charred and cooked through (8–10 minutes total).
Q: How do I get the creamiest tzatziki sauce?
A: Squeeze the cucumber well to remove moisture and use full-fat Greek yogurt. Chill before serving for best texture.
Q: Is traditional Greek salad served with lettuce?
A: No, authentic Greek salad (horiatiki) consists only of tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, onions, olives, and feta—no lettuce.
Q: Can I prepare anything in advance?
A: Absolutely. The chicken can be marinated and the tzatziki made the day before. Chop veggies right before serving for peak freshness.
Q: What’s the best way to serve this meal for a party?
A: Arrange skewers, salad, pitas, and a bowl of tzatziki buffet-style so guests can build their own plates or wraps. Add lemon wedges and fresh herbs for garnish.
Conclusion
This recipe brings together the essential flavors of Greece: lemony grilled chicken, a creamy yogurt dip, and a vibrant salad loaded with ripe vegetables and tangy feta. With just a few fresh ingredients and a little preparation, you can recreate a Mediterranean favorite right at home—perfect for sharing with family and friends.
References
- https://deliciousbydesign.net/traditional-greek-salad-recipe/
- https://www.billyparisi.com/traditional-greek-salad-recipe-horiatiki-salata/
- https://www.themediterraneandish.com/traditional-greek-salad-recipe/
- https://www.loveandlemons.com/greek-salad/
- https://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/a54226/best-greek-salad-recipe/
- https://zelosgreekartisan.com/blogs/easy-greek-recipes/the-real-greek-salad
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=36QOkwvNzts
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