If you’re craving something vibrant, flavorful, and downright satisfying, the Grilled Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki and Fresh Veggies Recipe is exactly what you need. This classic Greek-inspired dish balances tender, marinated chicken grilled to juicy perfection with the cool, creamy freshness of homemade tzatziki and crisp veggies. Every bite bursts with bright lemon, fragrant oregano, and garlicky goodness, making it a perfect weeknight meal that feels both special and effortless. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a go-to for easy dinners with a Mediterranean twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating this Grilled Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki and Fresh Veggies Recipe is surprisingly simple thanks to a handful of fresh, quality ingredients. Each one plays an important role, adding layers of flavor and texture that elevate the dish from everyday to unforgettable.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1-inch pieces for even marinating and quick grilling.
- Kosher salt: Enhances all flavors and helps tenderize the chicken.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and depth to the marinade.
- Extra-virgin olive oil: Brings richness while keeping the chicken juicy on the grill.
- Juice of 1 lemon: Infuses bright acidity and helps balance the savory elements.
- Garlic cloves, smashed: Imparts aromatic savoriness to both chicken and tzatziki.
- Dried oregano: A signature herb in Greek cooking that lifts the entire dish.
- Greek yogurt: The creamy base for cooling tzatziki sauce with a tangy touch.
- Finely chopped cucumber: Adds fresh crunch and subtle sweetness to the sauce.
- Minced garlic: Provides a sharper garlic note in the tzatziki.
- Freshly chopped dill: Brings a fragrant, herbal brightness to the sauce.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For a hint of heat that contrasts beautifully with the cool sauce.
- Warm pita bread: The perfect vehicle for piling on the souvlaki and veggies.
- Thinly sliced tomatoes: Juicy and colorful, they add freshness and a slight sweetness.
- Chopped romaine: Adds a crisp, refreshing crunch to complete each bite.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki and Fresh Veggies Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by whisking together extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, smashed garlic, dried oregano, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a large bowl. This marinade is your flavor foundation, infusing the chicken with bright citrusy notes, herbal undertones, and a touch of garlicky warmth. Add the cut chicken pieces and toss until they are thoroughly coated. Let the chicken soak in these flavors for at least 30 minutes—though longer, up to 24 hours, will deepen the taste, especially if you’re prepping in advance.
Step 2: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce
While the chicken marinates, whip up the tzatziki sauce by combining Greek yogurt, finely chopped cucumber, lemon juice, minced garlic, fresh dill, and a pinch of salt and pepper. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, a dash of red pepper flakes adds a wonderful subtle heat. Mix everything together and pop it into the fridge to chill. This cool sauce will offer a blissful contrast to the smoky grilled chicken.
Step 3: Get Your Skewers Ready
If you’re using wooden skewers to thread the chicken, be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand. This little step prevents the skewers from burning on the grill while you cook your souvlaki to perfection.
Step 4: Thread and Grill the Chicken
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers with space between each piece to ensure even cooking. Heat your grill to medium-high, then place the skewers on the grate. Grill the chicken about 6 minutes per side until each piece develops a gorgeous golden crust and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The grill marks and caramelization will add incredible flavor and texture.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Once your chicken is perfectly grilled, it’s time to build your souvlaki. Lay the warm pita flat and arrange the chicken skewers on top. Spoon generous dollops of the chilled tzatziki over, then add crisp romaine and juicy tomato slices. This harmony of warm, cool, tender, and crunchy is what makes the Grilled Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki and Fresh Veggies Recipe an absolute joy to eat.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki and Fresh Veggies Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or extra dill brightens the presentation and flavor, while a wedge of lemon on the side encourages guests to add an extra splash of citrus. A light drizzle of olive oil over the assembled souvlaki adds a beautiful sheen and richness.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs perfectly with traditional Greek sides like a crisp Greek salad, lemon roasted potatoes, or even a simple orzo pilaf. Fresh veggies like cucumber slices or marinated olives tie in wonderfully, making it a complete Mediterranean feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the grilled chicken souvlaki as a platter instead of individual pita wraps: lay out the chicken skewers, a big bowl of tzatziki, warm pita wedges, and bowls of fresh veggies for a family-style experience. Or turn it into a colorful grain bowl by layering all ingredients over couscous or quinoa, drizzling tzatziki on top for a vibrant, bowl-friendly meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover grilled chicken and tzatziki in separate airtight containers and refrigerate. Properly stored, they will keep well for up to 3 days. Keeping the components separate helps maintain the chicken’s texture and the sauce’s freshness.
Freezing
While the grilled chicken can be frozen, tzatziki does not freeze well because of its yogurt base. Freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat leftover chicken, warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can toughen the meat. Serve again with fresh or quickly made tzatziki and veggies for a second round of deliciousness.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving on the grill. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces and adjust cooking time slightly if needed for larger pieces.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken for 24 hours?
No, you can marinate for as little as 30 minutes. Longer marinating enhances flavor and tenderness, but if you’re short on time, a quick soak will still produce delicious results.
Can I make the tzatziki sauce ahead of time?
Yes, tzatziki actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours as the flavors meld beautifully. Just keep it refrigerated until just before serving.
What can I substitute for pita if I don’t have any?
Flatbreads, naan, or even wraps work as great alternatives. You can also serve the grilled chicken and veggies on a bed of rice or salad if you prefer a lighter, gluten-free option.
How do I know when the chicken souvlaki is done grilling?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F. Visually, the chicken should be golden brown with slightly charred edges and firm to the touch.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to bring a taste of the Mediterranean into your kitchen, the Grilled Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki and Fresh Veggies Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s fresh, flavorful, and fun to make any night of the week. I promise, once you experience those juicy grilled bites paired with the cool tangy sauce and crisp veggies, you’ll find yourself making it again and again. So fire up the grill and treat yourself to a meal that’s bursting with sunshine and simplicity!
Print
Grilled Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki and Fresh Veggies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 12 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
Description
This Grilled Chicken Souvlaki recipe is a flavorful and easy-to-make weeknight favorite that features tender marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection and served with refreshing tzatziki, sliced tomatoes, and chopped romaine wrapped in warm pita bread. Perfect for a quick Mediterranean-inspired meal that combines juicy protein with bright, herbaceous flavors.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Souvlaki
- 1 pound Boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1” pieces)
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt (adjust quantity to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons Extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 each Juice of 1 lemon
- 6 cloves Garlic (smashed)
- 1 tablespoon Dried oregano
For the Tzatziki Sauce
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (whole fat preferred)
- 1/2 each Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1/3 cup Finely chopped cucumber
- 1 clove Minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon Freshly chopped dill
- 1 pinch Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
To Serve
- 4 pieces Pita (warmed)
- 1 cup Thinly sliced tomatoes
- 2 cups Chopped romaine lettuce
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, smashed garlic, dried oregano, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the cut chicken pieces to the marinade and toss well to coat. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours for a deeper flavor.
- Make the Tzatziki Sauce: While the chicken marinates, combine Greek yogurt, finely chopped cucumber, lemon juice, minced garlic, freshly chopped dill, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Stir well to mix and refrigerate until serving.
- Soak the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
- Thread the Chicken: Thread marinated chicken pieces evenly onto the prepared skewers.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken skewers for about 6 minutes per side or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Assemble and Serve: Warm the pita bread and place grilled chicken on each pita. Top with tzatziki sauce, sliced tomatoes, and chopped romaine lettuce. Serve immediately for a delicious Mediterranean meal.
Notes
- For best results, marinate chicken overnight to maximize flavor infusion.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the skewers on a grill pan or under a broiler, turning frequently.
- Whole fat Greek yogurt makes the tzatziki richer and creamier, but low-fat yogurt can be used as an alternative.
- Adjust salt and pepper in both the marinade and tzatziki according to your taste preferences.
- Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning or catching fire on the grill.
