Flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Creamy Tzatziki

When my husband and I lived in sunny California, we often found ourselves drawn to a charming little Greek restaurant for our weeknight dinners. It was our sanctuary, a place where the aromas of grilled meats and fresh herbs always promised a delightful meal. We’d walk there, usually on a quieter evening, to avoid the bustling crowds. Without fail, he would order a savory pita sandwich, while I indulged in the succulent chicken and steak kebabs. But the real star, the secret ingredient that elevated every bite, was the mysterious, creamy sauce they called “tzatziki.” We literally drenched everything in it, marveling at its cool, tangy perfection, never realizing how incredibly simple it was to recreate at home.

Oh, the sheer regret! If only I had known then that this divine sauce was merely a harmonious blend of creamy yogurt, fresh dill, crisp cucumber, pungent garlic, and a bright squeeze of lemon juice, I would have been whipping up batches a long time ago. The revelation of its simplicity was truly a game-changer for our home cooking, opening up a world of Mediterranean flavors right in our own kitchen.

Now, kebabs have become one of our go-to easy weeknight meals. They are incredibly versatile, allowing us to use whatever fresh ingredients we have on hand. We almost always have chicken breasts and a variety of colorful vegetables stocked, making spontaneous kebab nights a breeze. Just last night, our refrigerator presented us with beautiful zucchini, a sweet yellow onion, and some juicy pineapple slices. The process couldn’t be simpler: I marinated chunks of chicken in a vibrant mixture of rich olive oil, zesty lemon juice, minced garlic, and a medley of dried Mediterranean herbs. Then, I threaded the marinated chicken onto skewers, alternating with the fresh veggies and fruit. Dinner was ready as soon as they were perfectly browned and tender on the grill, a symphony of smoky, savory, and sweet flavors.

The beauty of kebabs lies not just in their simplicity of preparation, but also in their incredible versatility once cooked. Once these delectable skewers are done, their vibrant colors and enticing aromas make for a stunning presentation. You can artfully arrange them on a long platter, creating an impressive spread for family or guests. Alternatively, for a more casual approach, simply slide a fork gently down the skewers to release the tender chunks of meat and vegetables into a delicious pile.

These tender, flavorful bites can be served in countless ways to suit any preference or occasion. They are fantastic served over a bed of fluffy rice, allowing the grains to soak up the savory juices and flavors. For a lighter, healthier option, they make a fantastic protein-packed addition to a fresh green salad, adding texture and substance. Or, if you’re like us, you can enjoy them just as they are – straight off the skewer or platter. Honestly, they are so flavorful and satisfying on their own that it’s hard not to fall in love with them exactly as they are. Their inherent deliciousness makes them a perfect standalone meal, especially when paired with that refreshing homemade tzatziki sauce.

Pairing these succulent Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs with a vibrant side dish truly completes the meal. We recently enjoyed them alongside my Pesto Potato Salad, creating a very satisfying and wonderfully simple end-of-summer spread. The refreshing zest of the potato salad perfectly complemented the smoky, savory notes of the grilled chicken and vegetables. Given the consistently warm, often 100+ degree temperatures we experience here in Texas, I have a strong feeling that our grill will continue to be a staple throughout the fall season. However, I’m also eagerly anticipating the cooler weather, hoping for the chance to finally break out my cozy blue jeans and give my oven a bit more love this coming season, perhaps for some comforting roasted dishes that signal the true arrival of autumn. Until then, these light and flavorful kebabs remain a family favorite.

The allure of Mediterranean cuisine often lies in its fresh ingredients and uncomplicated preparation, qualities beautifully embodied by these chicken kebabs and tzatziki. This meal isn’t just about delicious flavors; it’s about bringing a touch of the Mediterranean lifestyle to your home, where meals are fresh, vibrant, and meant to be savored. The combination of lean protein, crisp vegetables, and a tangy, cool sauce makes this dish not only incredibly tasty but also wonderfully healthy. It’s a testament to how simple, wholesome ingredients can come together to create something truly extraordinary. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting your culinary journey, these Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs with Tzatziki Sauce offer a delightful and achievable path to a genuinely satisfying meal.

Contents

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Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs with Homemade Tzatziki Sauce

Ingredients

For the Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, ideally organic or free-range, cut into uniform 1-inch chunks for even cooking
• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped basil, or 1/2 tablespoon dried basil leaves, for a sweet, peppery aroma
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano, essential for classic Mediterranean flavor
• Juice of 1 large, fresh lemon (approximately 2-3 tablespoons), for brightness and tenderizing
• 1 tablespoon high-quality olive oil, preferably extra virgin, for flavor and moisture
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced, to infuse the chicken with aromatic depth
• 1 large zucchini, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds or half-moons, adding a fresh, slightly sweet element
• 1 small fresh pineapple, cored and cut into 1-inch chunks, or 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained, for a touch of tropical sweetness and to aid in tenderizing the chicken
• 1 medium yellow or red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces, to add a savory and slightly sweet counterpoint when grilled
• 1 1/2 tablespoons additional olive oil, for brushing the kebabs before grilling, ensuring a beautiful sear
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste, to enhance all the flavors

For the Refreshing Tzatziki Sauce

• 1 cup low-fat Greek or plain yogurt, full-fat can also be used for extra creaminess, drained of excess liquid if very thin
• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped dill, or 1/2 tablespoon dried dill, providing that signature herbaceous note
• 1/2 a medium cucumber, peeled and finely grated (yielding about 1/4 cup), for a cool, refreshing crunch
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice, to brighten the flavors and add a zesty tang
• 2 small cloves garlic, very finely minced or pressed, for a subtle yet essential kick
• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste, to balance and season the sauce

Instructions

1. Preparing the Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs
2. In a large, sealable food storage bag or a non-reactive bowl, combine the basil, oregano, fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and the minced garlic. Add the uniformly cut chicken chunks to the marinade. Ensure the chicken is thoroughly coated by massaging the bag or stirring the mixture. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld and the lemon to tenderize the chicken. For maximum flavor and tenderness, you can marinate the chicken for up to 2 days.
3. While the chicken marinates, prepare your vegetables and fruit. Cut the zucchini, pineapple, and onion into approximately 1/2-inch to 1-inch chunks, ensuring they are roughly the same size as the chicken pieces for even cooking. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill. Thread the marinated chicken, pineapple, zucchini, and onion onto the prepared skewers, alternating the ingredients for visual appeal and balanced flavors. Using a pastry brush, lightly coat the assembled kebabs with the remaining 1 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides.
4. Preheat your gas grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Once hot, arrange the kebabs evenly across the grill surface. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning them frequently (every 2-3 minutes), until the vegetables are tender-crisp and show nice char marks, and the chicken is fully cooked through and no longer pink in the center (an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C). Carefully remove the cooked kebabs from the grill or grill pan using an oven mitt or tongs to a clean platter.
5. Serve these flavorful kebabs immediately with the freshly prepared tzatziki sauce, if desired. These versatile kebabs are also delicious served over a bed of fluffy rice, alongside your favorite Mediterranean side dish such as a refreshing cucumber salad, or with a scoop of basil pesto potato salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
6. Crafting the Zesty Tzatziki Sauce
7. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the Greek or plain yogurt, fresh or dried dill, finely grated cucumber (gently squeeze out any excess water if your cucumber is very juicy), fresh lemon juice, finely minced garlic, and salt. Stir all the ingredients together thoroughly until well combined and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, dill, or lemon juice to your preference. Serve the tzatziki immediately, or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to deepen and meld, and to serve chilled, which is ideal.
8. Enjoy your homemade Mediterranean feast!

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