Introduction
Grilled Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce is a delightful dish that combines tender marinated chicken and fresh vegetables, all perfectly grilled and served with a creamy yogurt-based sauce. This recipe is ideal for summer barbecues and quick weeknight dinners alike. With a zesty marinade and a refreshing dip, this meal is sure to impress your family and friends.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Marinade:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Juice of 1 lemon
– 1 tablespoon dried oregano
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
Chicken and Vegetables:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 small zucchini, sliced into ¼-inch moons
– 1 red onion, chopped
– 14 cherry tomatoes
Tzatziki Sauce:
– ½ cup Greek yogurt
– ¼ cucumber, seeds removed and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
– ¼ teaspoon salt
Prep Time
30 minutes (up to 2 hours for marinating)
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes (including marinating)
Yield: Serves 4
Follow this detailed recipe for a delicious experience that balances flavors and textures, allowing you to savor every bite of grilled chicken skewers complemented by the coolness of tzatziki sauce. Enjoy your meal!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon salt. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours, tossing occasionally.
Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce:
Remove excess moisture from the chopped cucumber by blotting with a towel. In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, cucumber, fresh mint, minced garlic, and ¼ teaspoon salt until well combined. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Assemble the Skewers:
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken pieces, zucchini slices, red onion, and cherry tomatoes onto the skewers, alternating as desired.
Grill the Skewers:
Preheat a grill or campfire for grilling. Place the assembled skewers on the grill grate. Grill, turning every few minutes to ensure even cooking. Cook the chicken for about 3-5 minutes per side, and the vegetables for approximately 10-12 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Serve:
Remove the skewers from the grill and serve hot with the prepared tzatziki sauce for dipping. Enjoy your meal!
Notes
Choice of Chicken:
Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs adds moisture and flavor to the skewers. You can also use chicken breast if preferred, but ensure not to overcook it to keep it tender.
Vegetable Variations:
Feel free to use other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or asparagus based on your preferences or seasonal availability.
Adjusting the Marinade:
You can customize the marinade by adding additional herbs or spices, such as paprika or cumin, for an extra flavor kick.
Cooking Equipment:
If using a grill pan or stovetop grill, ensure it is preheated and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. If cooking over a campfire, use a grill grate for even cooking.
Storing Leftovers:
If you have any leftover skewers or tzatziki sauce, store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken and vegetables are best consumed within 2-3 days, while the tzatziki can last up to a week.
Cook Techniques
Marinating
Marinating chicken helps to infuse it with flavor and tenderness. The combination of olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, and salt creates a flavorful marinade. Allow the chicken to soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes for the best results.
Preparing Tzatziki
To make tzatziki sauce, it’s essential to remove excess moisture from the cucumber to prevent the sauce from becoming watery. Combine Greek yogurt, chopped cucumber, mint, minced garlic, and salt for a refreshing dipping sauce.
Assembling Skewers
When threading the ingredients onto skewers, alternate the chicken, vegetables, and cherry tomatoes for even cooking and presentation. If using wooden skewers, soaking them in water for 20 minutes will help prevent burning.
Grilling
Preheat the grill to ensure even cooking. Grill the skewers while turning them every few minutes to avoid burning and ensure that both the chicken and the vegetables cook evenly.
Serving
Remove the skewers from the grill when the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender. Serve hot alongside the chilled tzatziki sauce for dipping.
FAQ
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but you can let it sit for up to 2 hours for more flavor.
Can I use different vegetables for the skewers?
Yes! Feel free to substitute other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even eggplant based on your preferences.
What is the best way to know if the chicken is cooked through?
The chicken should have an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check.
How can I store leftover tzatziki sauce?
Store leftover tzatziki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I make the tzatziki sauce in advance?
Yes, tzatziki can be made a few hours ahead of time or even the day before to let the flavors meld together.
Conclusion
Grilled Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce are a delightful and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion, whether a casual family dinner or a summer barbecue. The marinated chicken, combined with fresh vegetables and a refreshing tzatziki sauce, creates a harmonious blend of tastes and textures. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also offer a healthy option that satisfies cravings for grilled food. Enjoy this dish as a light meal or serve it at gatherings to impress your guests.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Skewers
Try making skewers using a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, and eggplant, drizzled with olive oil and herbs for a delicious vegetarian option.
Shrimp Skewers
Swap out chicken for shrimp marinated in lime juice, garlic, and cilantro. Grill until pink and serve with a spicy dipping sauce.
Beef Kebabs
Use cubed beef marinated in a mix of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, threading them with onion, bell peppers, and zucchini for a hearty meal.
Pineapple Chicken Skewers
Add chunks of pineapple to the chicken skewers for a sweet and savory combination. The caramelization from grilling enhances the flavors beautifully.
Quinoa Salad
Serve the skewers alongside a light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette for a fresh and nutritious meal.
Flatbread Wraps
Wrap the grilled chicken and vegetables in warm flatbreads with tzatziki sauce for a delicious and portable meal option.
