How to Make Restaurant-Style Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Mint Tzatziki

Discover the authentic flavors of Greece with this irresistible Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Mint Tzatziki recipe. This classic Mediterranean dish combines perfectly marinated chicken skewers with a refreshing tzatziki sauce that’s elevated with bright notes of lemon and fresh mint. Whether you’re cooking for a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner, this Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Mint Tzatziki will transport your taste buds straight to the streets of Athens.

Why Make Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Mint Tzatziki at Home?

Traditional Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Mint Tzatziki offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The tender, herb-marinated chicken pairs beautifully with the cool, creamy tzatziki sauce, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and refreshing. By making it at home, you can control the quality of ingredients and adjust the seasonings to your taste.

The History Behind Chicken Souvlaki

Before we dive into our Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Mint Tzatziki recipe, let’s explore its rich heritage. Souvlaki has been a staple of Greek cuisine for thousands of years, with historical records showing similar dishes being prepared as far back as ancient Greece.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Mint Tzatziki

For the Chicken Souvlaki:

Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus 4 hours marinating)
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 6

Marinade Ingredients:

• 2 pounds chicken breast, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Lemon Mint Tzatziki:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Greek yogurt
• 1 English cucumber, grated and drained
• 3 tablespoons fresh mint, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken Souvlaki:

1. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for 4-24 hours.
3. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before use.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving small spaces between pieces for even cooking.

Making the Lemon Mint Tzatziki:

1. Grate the cucumber and place in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze out excess moisture.
2. In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, drained cucumber, chopped mint, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.

Cooking the Souvlaki:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (approximately 400°F/200°C).
2. Grill chicken skewers for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.

Serving Your Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Mint Tzatziki

Create the perfect meal by serving your Chicken Souvlaki with:

• Warm pita bread
• Fresh Greek salad
• Extra lemon wedges
• Sliced red onions
• Cherry tomatoes

Tips for the Best Results

To elevate your Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Mint Tzatziki, keep these tips in mind:

1. Don’t rush the marination process
2. Ensure chicken pieces are uniform in size
3. Drain cucumber thoroughly for thick tzatziki
4. Let tzatziki rest before serving
5. Don’t overcrowd the skewers

Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions

Your Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Mint Tzatziki can be prepared in advance:

• Marinated chicken: Keeps up to 24 hours in the refrigerator
• Tzatziki sauce: Stays fresh for 3-4 days when refrigerated
• Cooked souvlaki: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days

Variations and Substitutions

Customize your Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Mint Tzatziki:

• Use turkey instead of chicken
• Add different herbs to tzatziki (dill, parsley)
• Make it spicy with added chili flakes
• Try dairy-free yogurt alternatives

Common Questions About Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Mint Tzatziki

Troubleshooting Tips:

• Prevent dry chicken by not overcooking
• Avoid watery tzatziki by properly draining cucumber
• Ensure even cooking by maintaining consistent piece sizes
• Prevent sticking by properly preheating the grill

Health Benefits

This Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Mint Tzatziki recipe offers numerous nutritional benefits:

• High-quality protein from chicken
• Probiotics from Greek yogurt
• Healthy fats from olive oil
• Fresh vegetables and herbs

Transform your dinner routine with this delicious Chicken Souvlaki with Lemon Mint Tzatziki recipe. The combination of tender, marinated chicken and refreshing tzatziki sauce creates a memorable meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re new to Greek cuisine or a longtime fan, this recipe delivers authentic flavors right to your kitchen.