Quick 30-Minute Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki Sauce

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 (8 skewers)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Greek chicken souvlaki is quick, fresh, and packed with Mediterranean flavors. The marinade makes the chicken tender and juicy, while the tzatziki adds a cool, creamy balance. It’s versatile—serve it as a wrap, salad, or platter. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep and pairs well with sides like Greek salad or roasted potatoes.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Souvlaki

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 8 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

For the Tzatziki Sauce

• 1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat preferred)
• 1/2 English cucumber, grated
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
• 1/4 tsp salt

For Serving

• 4 pita breads, warmed
• 1 cup sliced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup sliced red onions
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken cubes and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).
2. Prepare Tzatziki Sauce: Grate the cucumber and place it in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze out excess liquid. In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dill, and salt. Mix well. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
3. Skewer the Chicken: Thread marinated chicken cubes onto soaked wooden skewers, about 4-5 pieces per skewer.
4. Grill the Chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush with oil to prevent sticking. Grill skewers for 3-4 minutes per side, until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove and let rest for 5 minutes.
5. Warm the Pita: Grill or warm pita breads for 1 minute per side until soft and slightly toasted.
6. Assemble the Souvlaki: Spread tzatziki sauce on warm pita. Add chicken (removed from skewers), tomatoes, red onions, and feta (if using). Sprinkle with parsley. Fold or roll the pita to serve.

Tips and Variations

• Make It Quick: Marinate the chicken for just 15 minutes for a fast meal. For deeper flavor, marinate overnight.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for a kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for grilled zucchini, mushrooms, or tofu.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pita or serve over rice, like in our quick Korean beef bulgogi bowl.
• Batch Cooking: Double the recipe and store extra skewers for quick meals.

Substitutions, Storage, and Serving Suggestions

Substitutions

• Chicken: Use pork, lamb, or shrimp instead of chicken. Adjust cooking time as needed.
• Greek Yogurt: Use plain yogurt strained through cheesecloth for 1 hour if Greek yogurt is unavailable. For vegan tzatziki, try cashew-based yogurt.
• Dill: Replace with fresh mint or parsley for a different flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Substitute with red wine vinegar in the tzatziki or marinade.

Storage

• Chicken: Store cooked skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. Learn more in our how to store fresh meat guide.
• Tzatziki: Keep in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Stir before serving, as cucumbers may release water.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked marinated chicken in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before grilling.

Make-Ahead Tips

• Marinate chicken the night before and store in the fridge.
• Prepare tzatziki up to 2 days in advance for better flavor.
• Check our weekly meal prep guide for more tips.

Serving Suggestions

• Wrap Style: Serve in pita with tzatziki, tomatoes, onions, and feta for a classic experience.
• Platter: Arrange skewers over a bed of creamy mushroom risotto or a simple salad.
• Mezze Spread: Pair with homemade hummus and grilled veggies for a Mediterranean feast.
• Side Dishes: Try with air fryer roasted potatoes or a Greek salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is souvlaki? Souvlaki is a Greek dish of marinated meat grilled on skewers, often served in pita with tzatziki, tomatoes, and onions.
• Can I make tzatziki without cucumber? Yes, but it won’t be traditional. Try grated zucchini or skip the vegetable for a garlic-yogurt dip.
• How do I prevent watery tzatziki? Squeeze excess liquid from grated cucumber using a towel or cheesecloth. Use thick Greek yogurt.
• Can I bake souvlaki instead of grilling? Yes, bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway, until the chicken reaches 165°F.

This recipe brings the vibrant flavors of Greece to your table in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re craving a quick dinner or planning a Mediterranean-inspired gathering, this souvlaki with tzatziki will impress. Try it tonight and let the flavors transport you to a sunny Greek taverna!