If you are craving a dish that brings sunshine to your dinner table and bursts with vibrant Mediterranean flavors, then the Grilled Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki and Fresh Pita Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe offers tender, juicy chicken marinated in fragrant herbs and lemon, perfectly grilled and paired with a cool, creamy tzatziki sauce nestled inside warm pita bread. It’s a delightful harmony of textures and tastes that feels both fresh and comforting—a true weeknight winner you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Grilled Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki and Fresh Pita Recipe lies in its wonderfully simple, yet essential ingredients. Each one plays its part in creating a perfect balance of bright, savory, and refreshing notes.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1-inch pieces to ensure quick and even grilling.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish; adjust to taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds mild heat and depth.
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: Key for a juicy marinade that keeps the chicken tender.
- Juice of 1 lemon: Brings bright acidity that balances the richness perfectly.
- 6 cloves garlic, smashed: Infuses bold pungency and warmth into the marinade.
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano: Classic herb flavor that gives this dish its Greek character.
- 1/2 cup whole-fat Greek yogurt: The creamy base of your tzatziki sauce for cooling contrast.
- Juice of 1/2 lemon: Added to tzatziki for a fresh, zesty lift.
- 1/3 cup finely chopped cucumber: Adds crisp texture and light cooling effect in the sauce.
- 1 clove minced garlic: Enhances the tzatziki’s flavor without overpowering it.
- 1 tablespoon freshly chopped dill: Bright, herbal notes that tie the sauce and dish together.
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional): Just a touch for those who like a little heat.
- 4 pieces pita bread, warmed: Perfect vessels to hold all your souvlaki goodness.
- 1 cup thinly sliced tomatoes: Adds juicy freshness and vibrant color.
- 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce: Offers crunchy texture and a fresh bite.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki and Fresh Pita Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by whisking together the olive oil, lemon juice, smashed garlic, dried oregano, kosher salt, and freshly ground pepper in a large bowl. Add the chicken pieces and toss them to coat evenly with the marinade. Letting the chicken soak up these flavors for at least 30 minutes creates a deeply infused, tender result. For even richer taste, you can refrigerate and marinate up to 24 hours—trust me, the patience is worth it.
Step 2: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce
While the chicken is marinating, whip up your tzatziki by mixing the Greek yogurt with finely chopped cucumber, lemon juice, minced garlic, freshly chopped dill, and a pinch of salt and pepper. For an extra little kick, stir in some red pepper flakes if you like. This refreshing sauce should be refrigerated until serving to let those flavors meld beautifully.
Step 3: Get Your Skewers Ready
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This simple step prevents them from catching fire and ensures a smoother cooking experience.
Step 4: Skewer and Grill
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked skewers, spacing them out so they cook evenly. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the skewers for about 6 minutes per side, turning once, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The grill’s smoky char adds incredible flavor and irresistible texture.
Step 5: Assemble Your Souvlaki
Once grilled, slide the chicken off the skewers onto warmed pita bread. Top generously with the chilled tzatziki sauce, sliced tomatoes, and chopped romaine for a memorable bite every time. This final assembly pulls all the components into a harmonious handheld delight.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki and Fresh Pita Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like extra dill or parsley scattered on top add a pop of color and brightness. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper can elevate presentation and taste, giving your souvlaki an inviting, homemade look.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple Greek sides such as lemon roasted potatoes, a fresh Greek salad with olives and feta, or even some grilled vegetables. Light and fresh sides complement the bold flavors of the souvlaki without overshadowing it.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the chicken souvlaki family-style with all the components separated so everyone can build their own pita wraps. Another idea is to chop the grilled chicken and toss it into a salad bowl with tzatziki drizzle for a lighter meal option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover grilled chicken souvlaki components in airtight containers in the fridge. The chicken and tzatziki will keep well for 3 to 4 days, making it a fantastic option for meal prepping or enjoying quick lunches.
Freezing
You can freeze the grilled chicken pieces separately once cooled, stored in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. However, it’s best to keep the tzatziki and pita fresh to maintain their textures and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet or oven to keep it juicy—avoid the microwave if you can, as it may dry out the meat. The tzatziki is best served cold, so add it fresh when you reheat your meal.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and slightly more forgiving on the grill. Just adjust the cooking time slightly and ensure they reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F.
What if I don’t have a grill?
No worries! You can cook the souvlaki on a grill pan or even under the broiler in your oven. Just watch closely to prevent burning and flip for even cooking.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the tzatziki?
Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt with coconut or almond-based yogurt for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind that the flavor and consistency will be slightly different but still delicious.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
While 30 minutes is sufficient, marinating up to 24 hours in the fridge intensifies the flavors wonderfully. Just be sure to keep it properly chilled the entire time.
Can I prepare this recipe for a crowd?
Definitely! Simply multiply the ingredient quantities and use multiple skewers or grill batches to accommodate more people. It’s a great dish for casual get-togethers or summer parties.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with fresh flavors, easy to make, and guaranteed to become a household favorite, the Grilled Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki and Fresh Pita Recipe is the way to go. It’s like a little taste of the Mediterranean right on your plate, perfect for sharing with family or friends. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at just how simple, satisfying, and downright delicious this meal can be!
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Grilled Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki and Fresh Pita Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 12 minutes (including marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Grilled Chicken Souvlaki is a classic Greek-inspired dish perfect for weeknight dinners. Tender, marinated chicken pieces are threaded onto skewers, grilled to juicy perfection, and served wrapped in warm pita with fresh vegetables and a homemade tzatziki sauce. This recipe combines bright lemon, aromatic garlic, and traditional oregano for a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s quick to prepare and sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1” pieces
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 6 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
For the Tzatziki Sauce
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (whole fat preferred)
- 1/2 lemon, juiced
- 1/3 cup finely chopped cucumber
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon freshly chopped dill
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
To Serve
- 4 pieces pita bread, warmed
- 1 cup thinly sliced tomatoes
- 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, smashed garlic, oregano, kosher salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor infusion.
- Make the Tzatziki Sauce: While the chicken marinates, combine Greek yogurt, chopped cucumber, lemon juice, minced garlic, freshly chopped dill, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes in a bowl. Stir well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Prepare the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
- Thread the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken pieces evenly onto the skewers, leaving space between pieces for even cooking.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for approximately 6 minutes per side, turning once, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Assemble and Serve: Warm the pita bread and fill each with grilled chicken, a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce, sliced tomatoes, and chopped romaine lettuce. Serve immediately for best flavor.
Notes
- Marinating overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop.
- Ensure wooden skewers are soaked well to prevent burning during grilling.
- Adjust red pepper flakes in the tzatziki for desired spice level or omit for a milder sauce.
- Use whole-fat Greek yogurt for creamier tzatziki, but low-fat can be substituted.
