Tzatziki Chicken Skewers with Lemonherb Yogurt Marinade

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever stared into your fridge and wondered what things to make with plain Greek yogurt? Honestly, I used to think it was just for breakfast.

But trust me, it's a total game changer, especially in this Lemon Herb Marinade for chicken skewers! It brings a tangy, Mediterranean inspired flavor that's absolutely divine.

Brief Overview

These Easy Greek Recipes stem from the heart of Mediterranean cuisine. This recipe takes about 2 hours and 35 minutes to prepare, with only about 20 minutes of active work.

One batch serves four hungry folks.

Main Benefits

This recipe is packed with protein, thanks to the chicken and Greek yogurt. It's perfect for a summer cookout or a quick weeknight dinner and a staple in many Mediterranean Diet Recipes .

These chicken kabob ideas are a guaranteed success, bringing a fresh twist to your grilling recipes . Plus, the Greek yogurt recipes create the most tender and flavorful chicken skewer marinade you can imagine.

Have you ever had that moment where you realize a single ingredient can unlock so much flavor? That's plain Greek yogurt for me.

I remember the first time I used it in a marinade; it was a revelation! It tenderized the chicken beautifully and gave it this incredible tangy depth that you just can't get with oil alone.

The secret to the best Yogurt Marinade for Chicken is time. The longer it sits, the better the flavor penetrates.

Aim for at least two hours, but overnight is even better if you can manage it. And don't be afraid to experiment with the herbs.

Fresh oregano and dill are classics, but mint or parsley would also be lovely additions. Trust your taste buds!

Now, let’s dive into the ingredients! We're going to use some simple yet impactful components to create this magical marinade.

Ingredients & Equipment: Greek Inspired Chicken Skewer Magic

Alright, let's talk ingredients! This recipe for Tzatziki Chicken Skewers is all about fresh, vibrant flavors. Plus, it's way easier than you think.

Don’t be scared! We're diving deep into the land of the Mediterranean diet recipes here.

Main Ingredients: The Foundation of Flavor

Here's what you'll need to conjure up some amazing chicken kabob ideas , especially when things to make with plain Greek yogurt comes into the discussion:

• 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed. Look for chicken that's pink and firm. You know, the kind that looks happy.
• 1 cup (240g) plain Greek yogurt. Full fat or 2% is the way to go for maximum flavour. It works wonders as a yogurt marinade for chicken .
• 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil. Because good oil equals good flavour.
• 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice. From about 1-2 lemons. Bottled juice is a no-go, trust me.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced. Freshly minced, please!
• 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped.
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped.
• 1 teaspoon salt.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.

Also grab a red bell pepper, a yellow bell pepper, and a red onion for the skewers. Cut them into 1 inch pieces.

Seasoning Notes: The Flavor Boosters

This recipe hinges on that bright lemon herb marinade . The combination of oregano and dill with the lemon juice and garlic is pure magic.

If you're missing oregano, thyme works in a pinch. For a little extra something, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

It turns into an irresistible chicken skewer marinade .

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

You don't need fancy gadgets for this recipe. Just the basics:

• A large bowl for marinating.
• A whisk for the Tzatziki sauce recipe .
• A cutting board and sharp knife. Obviously.
• Skewers. Wooden or metal. If you're using wooden ones, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes . This helps prevent them from burning on the grill.
• A grill or grill pan. We're aiming for healthy grilling recipes here!

Honestly, this is a super easy Greek recipes . The yogurt makes the chicken incredibly tender. I remember the first time I made this, my friend said it was the best chicken he'd ever had.

Now that's what I call a compliment! It makes a great lunch for kids. Give it a try.

Cooking Method: Grilling Up Greek Inspired Chicken Skewers

Honestly, I've made a ton of chicken skewers in my day. But these Tzatziki Chicken Skewers ? They're something special.

Think sunshine, a gentle breeze, and the taste of the Mediterranean all rolled into one. They're also a fantastic example of things to make with plain Greek yogurt to elevate any meal.

Let's get started!

Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place Magic

First things first, let's get organised. The French call it "mise en place" everything in its place. Chop your 1.

5 lbs of chicken into cubes, dice your red and yellow bell peppers , and slice your red onion . Crush those 2 cloves of garlic too.

Measure out your 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt , 1/4 cup olive oil , and 1/4 cup of lemon juice .

Get your 2 tablespoons oregano and 2 tablespoons dill chopped. This makes life so much easier, trust me! Safety reminder: always wash your hands after handling raw chicken.

step-by-step: Grilling to Perfection

Ready to cook? Here's the lowdown:

1. Whisk together the 1 cup Greek yogurt, 1/4 cup olive oil, 1/4 cup lemon juice, 2 cloves minced garlic, 2 tablespoons chopped oregano, 2 tablespoons chopped dill, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper .
2. Marinate the 1.5 lbs chicken in the yogurt mixture for at least 2 hours , or better, overnight in the fridge! I find, the longer it sits, the better. This is where all the chicken skewer marinade magic happens.
3. Thread the marinated chicken and chopped veggies onto skewers.
4. Preheat your grill to medium high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
5. Grill for 15- 20 minutes , turning occasionally, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165° F ( 74° C) .
6. Rest for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for Greek Gods (and Goddesses!)

• Don't skimp on the marinating time! Seriously, the longer, the better. That yogurt marinade for chicken will tenderize the meat and pack it with flavour.
• Avoid overcrowding the skewers. Leave some space for even cooking.
• Keep an eye on the heat. You don't want burnt chicken. A slightly charred effect is good.

Common mistakes : Overcooking the chicken (it dries out) and not marinating long enough (it's bland). For a quick and easy Greek recipes , this ticks all the boxes.

Pair it with a simple Tzatziki sauce recipe and a fresh salad for a true taste of the Mediterranean. I often make a big batch of the marinade to have on hand and also experiment with other flavors as part of the Mediterranean diet recipes .

When it comes to healthy grilling recipes , this is up there.

This is a great option for chicken kabob ideas , or even served with a lemon herb marinade over grilled vegetables for a lighter bite. Enjoy and have fun!

Recipe Notes

Alright, buckle up, buttercups! Let's chat about this amazing Tzatziki Chicken Skewer recipe. Honestly, things to make with plain Greek yogurt just got a whole lot more exciting!

Serving Suggestions: Level Up Your Plate

Presentation is key. Trust me. Think vibrant colors. Picture this: a bed of fluffy couscous, the golden brown skewers nestled on top, and a generous dollop of that cool, creamy tzatziki sauce recipe .

You could even sprinkle a little extra dill for that boujee touch.

For sides, how about a classic Greek salad or some grilled halloumi? A light and crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc would be chef's kiss .

Storage Tips: Keep it Fresh

If you have leftovers which, let's be honest, is a big if store the cooked skewers in an airtight container in the fridge.

They'll keep for about 3 days. Freezing isn't really recommended for this recipe, as the yogurt marinade can get a bit weird when thawed.

When you are ready to eat again, for reheating, pop them in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.

You could also reheat on a grill but watch that you do not burn them, or in the microwave in 1 minute intervals.

Variations: Make it Your Own

Got dietary restrictions? No worries! For a gluten-free version, make sure your Tzatziki sauce doesn't have any hidden gluten containing ingredients, and you're good to go.

Want to switch things up seasonally? In the summer, try adding zucchini or cherry tomatoes to the skewers. In the autumn, try pumpkin. Use a Lemon Herb Marinade .

Nutrition Basics: Good for You!

These skewers are packed with protein, thanks to the chicken and Greek yogurt . Plus, you're getting a good dose of vitamins and antioxidants from those colorful peppers and onions.

It's a great addition to a Mediterranean diet recipe , plus they are perfect for Healthy Grilling Recipes . We all love easy greek recipes that don't sacrifice on flavor.

So go on, give these Chicken Skewers a whirl! I promise, you won't be disappointed. Yogurt marinade for chicken has never tasted so good! Who knows, you might even discover your new favorite Chicken Kabob ideas ! Grilling recipes are the best for summer days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these Tzatziki Chicken Skewers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken overnight for even more flavour. Just assemble the skewers closer to grilling time to prevent the vegetables from getting soggy. Think of it as your "prep like a pro" move less stress on the day!

What are some other delicious things to make with plain Greek yogurt besides this recipe?

Plain Greek yogurt is a kitchen chameleon! It's not just for skewers; try using it as a healthy substitute for sour cream or mayonnaise in dips and dressings, or blend it into smoothies for an extra protein boost.

You can even use it in baking to add moisture and tang to cakes and muffins a proper baker's secret!

My chicken is burning on the grill! What am I doing wrong?

Burning chicken? Nobody wants that! First, make sure your grill isn't too hot medium high heat is usually best. Also, the sugars in the marinade can caramelize quickly, so keep a close eye and turn the skewers frequently.

You can also move the skewers to a cooler part of the grill if needed or lower the lid to retain moisture while cooking, it's all about finding the right balance, innit?

How long will leftover Tzatziki Chicken Skewers last, and how should I store them?

Leftovers are great for lunch the next day! Store the cooked skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the microwave, oven, or even a skillet just make sure they're heated through before serving, mind you.

Can I use frozen chicken for these skewers, or does it have to be fresh?

You can definitely use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before marinating. Pat it dry with paper towels before adding it to the marinade, too this will help the marinade adhere better. It's all about getting the best possible flavour and texture, isn't it?

I'm watching my calories. Are these Tzatziki Chicken Skewers healthy?

These skewers can definitely be part of a healthy diet! Greek yogurt is packed with protein and lower in fat than many other creamy sauces. Use lean chicken breast, load up on the veggies, and be mindful of portion sizes. You can even grill them without the skewers to cut down on time!