Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki & Warm Pita Bread
Char-grilled marinated chicken skewers bursting with lemon, garlic, and Greek wild oregano, wrapped in fluffy warm pita with crisp veggies and rich, cooling cucumber-garlic tzatziki.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 700g boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Juice and zest of 1 large organic lemon
- 4 cloves garlic, finely grated
- 2 tbsp dried Greek oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
Homemade Greek Tzatziki
- 1.5 cups authentic Greek yogurt (whole milk)
- 1 large English cucumber, grated and thoroughly squeezed dry
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed into paste
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice or red wine vinegar
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
Serving & Platter
- 4-6 Greek pita breads, brushed with olive oil and warmed
- 1 cup ripe cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced into crescents
- Fresh flat-leaf parsley and lemon wedges
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, grated garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken cubes until well coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours in the fridge).
Make the Authentic Tzatziki
Grate the cucumber and squeeze out all excess moisture using a cheesecloth or your hands. In a bowl, mix the squeezed cucumber with Greek yogurt, minced garlic, chopped dill, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt. Chill in the fridge.
Skewer and Grill
Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto wooden or metal skewers. Heat an indoor grill pan or outdoor grill to high heat. Grill skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until beautifully charred and cooked through to 74°C (165°F).
Warm the Pita
Brush Greek pita breads lightly with olive oil and toast on the hot grill for 1-2 minutes until soft, pliable, and lightly charred.
Assemble and Serve
Serve the sizzling chicken skewers directly over warm pita bread with generous spoonfuls of cool tzatziki, sliced tomatoes, red onions, fresh parsley, and extra lemon wedges.
Nutrition Facts
* Based on a 2,000 calorie diet.