Herbed Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki

Name: Herbed Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; Salt and pepper to taste; Wooden or metal skewers; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 cucumber, finely grated and drained; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Universal Food Recipes

When it comes to grilling, there's nothing I love more than marinating chicken skewers with fresh herbs and spices. These Herbed Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki not only smell delicious while cooking, but they also have a wonderful balance of flavors that makes them perfect for summer gatherings. I enjoy serving them with a cooling tzatziki sauce that brings the dish together beautifully. Whether I'm entertaining guests or just enjoying a simple dinner at home, these skewers are always a hit!

Created by

The Chefzoeskitchen Team

Last updated on 2026-03-18T16:46:52.230Z

Creating these Herbed Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki has become one of my favorite outdoor cooking activities. Each time I prepare them, I experiment with different herb combinations, and I find that the freshness of the ingredients really shines through. Using fresh herbs instead of dried makes a world of difference in flavor and aroma.

The tzatziki sauce is the perfect partner for these skewers, offering a creamy, tangy contrast that enhances every bite. I've learned that letting the tzatziki chill for at least an hour before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it an essential step in the preparation.

Why You'll Love These Herbed Chicken Skewers

Juicy chicken infused with aromatic herbs
Creamy tzatziki sauce that pairs perfectly
Ideal for summer barbecues or easy weeknight dinners

Unlocking Flavors with Marinades

Marinades play a crucial role in enhancing the flavor of the chicken skewers. The combination of olive oil, herbs, and lemon zest not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with aromatic goodness. I recommend letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for optimal flavor, consider marinating overnight in the refrigerator. This time allows the chicken to absorb the flavors deeply, resulting in each bite being bursting with freshness.

Ensure that you thoroughly coat each piece of chicken in the marinade. Using your hands or a spatula, mix the chicken well to ensure every bit is covered. This surface area absorption makes a significant difference, allowing the flavors to penetrate more efficiently, leading to a juicier end product. Watch out for the balance between herbs; while too much can overpower, the right mix creates a harmonious flavor profile.

Perfecting the Tzatziki Sauce

Tzatziki is the perfect companion for herbed chicken skewers, providing a creamy and refreshing contrast to the savory notes of the chicken. The secret to an excellent tzatziki lies in the quality of the ingredients. Opt for full-fat Greek yogurt for its rich texture and lower moisture content, which yields a thicker sauce. Additionally, draining the cucumber thoroughly before mixing prevents excess water, which could thin out the sauce and dilute its flavor.

To customize your tzatziki, feel free to experiment with additional ingredients like mint or even a dash of cumin for warmth. The garlic should be finely minced to ensure an even distribution of flavor. For the best experience, prepare the tzatziki at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together, creating a cohesive taste that's even better after resting.

Grilling Mastery

Grilling the skewers requires careful attention to heat levels to achieve perfectly cooked chicken. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 450°F. This temperature range is ideal for creating a nice char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. You can gauge readiness by placing your hand above the grill; you should be able to hold it there for 2-3 seconds before needing to pull away due to the heat.

While grilling, make sure to turn the skewers occasionally, every 3-4 minutes, to ensure they cook evenly on all sides. Look for a golden-brown exterior and internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption. If you notice they're charring too quickly, lower the heat slightly. This grilling technique allows for a beautiful caramelization, adding depth to the overall flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to get started:

For the Skewers

1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon lemon zest
Salt and pepper to taste
Wooden or metal skewers

For the Tzatziki

1 cup Greek yogurt
1 cucumber, finely grated and drained
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt to taste

Make sure to prepare your skewers ahead of time so they're ready to grill!

Instructions

Follow these steps for delicious skewers:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic, oregano, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and mix until well coated. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

In a separate bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, dill, lemon juice, and salt. Mix well, then cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Assemble the Skewers

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers. If using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for 30 minutes ahead of time to prevent burning.

Grill the Skewers

Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has grill marks.

Serve

Remove from the grill and let the skewers rest for a few minutes. Serve with the tzatziki sauce on the side.

Enjoy your deliciously grilled skewers with a side of tzatziki!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding other herbs such as basil or thyme to the marinade. You can also substitute the chicken with shrimp for a different twist!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover chicken skewers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They can be enjoyed cold or reheated. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps restore some juiciness without drying them out. For a quick option, you can also use a microwave, but be cautious as it can make them rubbery if overcooked.

The tzatziki sauce can be stored separately for up to a week, making it a great option for meal prep. Consider using the sauce as a dip for fresh veggies or as a spread on sandwiches for an added flavor punch. This versatility can make meal planning more enjoyable.

Scaling and Variation Ideas

This herbed chicken skewer recipe is easily scalable for larger gatherings. Simply double or triple the marinade ingredients and chicken without significantly altering cooking times. Using skewers of different sizes can change serving portions for varying appetites. Also, if you're planning a vegetarian version, consider substituting chicken with firm tofu or vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini for similar grilling results.

You can also experiment with different herbs in the marinade, such as thyme or basil, to give an entirely new twist to the skewers. Adding spices like smoked paprika or cumin can introduce additional depth, enhancing the overall flavor profile and allowing for a delightful variation that complements different dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these skewers ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to grill.

→ What can I serve with skewers?

These skewers pair excellently with a mixed green salad, roasted vegetables, or pita bread.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use firm tofu or a mixture of grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms as a substitute for chicken.

→ How long do leftovers last?

Leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.