Save to Pinterest Juicy, marinated chicken skewers infused with zesty lemon and fresh herbs, grilled to perfection and served with a refreshing homemade tzatziki sauce. This light and healthy Mediterranean dish is perfect for summer meal prep or a vibrant weeknight dinner that the whole family will enjoy.
Save to Pinterest Experience the bright, clean flavors of the Mediterranean with these skewers. The marinade ensures the chicken remains tender and flavorful, while the grill adds a subtle smokiness that pairs beautifully with the tangy yogurt-based sauce.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Skewers
- 600 g (1.3 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 2.5 cm (1 in) cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried oregano)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 8 wooden or metal skewers
For the Tzatziki Sauce
- 250 g (1 cup) Greek yogurt (2% or nonfat)
- ½ cucumber, grated and excess liquid squeezed out
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- Juice of ½ lemon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For Serving
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped
Instructions
- Step 1: Marinate the chicken
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon zest and juice, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Add chicken cubes and toss to coat. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for best flavor).
- Step 2: Prepare the tzatziki
- While the chicken marinates, prepare the tzatziki: combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Step 3: Soak wooden skewers
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning.
- Step 4: Thread the chicken
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces evenly onto skewers.
- Step 5: Preheat the grill
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates.
- Step 6: Grill the skewers
- Grill chicken skewers for 5–7 minutes per side, turning once, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly charred.
- Step 7: Rest and serve
- Remove skewers from grill and rest for 2 minutes. Serve hot with chilled tzatziki, lemon wedges, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best results, always preheat your grill pan before adding the skewers to achieve those perfect char marks. If using wooden skewers, the 20-minute soak is a crucial step to prevent them from catching fire or splintering during cooking.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For extra flavor, add a pinch of chili flakes to the marinade for a subtle kick. You can also substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs if you prefer juicier, more tender skewers.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these skewers with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh Greek salad for a complete, balanced meal. They also pair excellently with warm pita bread or over a bed of fluffy quinoa.
Save to Pinterest These Light Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers are a delicious way to enjoy healthy eating without sacrificing flavor. Quick to cook and packed with protein, they are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work beautifully and yield juicier skewers. The marinade time and grilling instructions remain the same.
- → How long should I marinate the chicken?
Minimum 30 minutes, but 1-2 hours produces the most flavorful results. Don't exceed 4 hours or the lemon juice may break down the texture too much.
- → Do I need to soak wooden skewers?
Yes, soak wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes before threading to prevent burning on the grill. Metal skewers can be used directly.
- → How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 74°C (165°F). Visual cues include lightly charred edges and no pink remaining when you cut into a piece.
- → How long does the tzatziki sauce keep?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop and improve after a day.
- → What sides pair well with these skewers?
Grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers, Greek salad, roasted potatoes, or warm pita bread all complement this Mediterranean dish beautifully.