Name: Greek Chicken Skewers with Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 pounds (907 g) ground chicken thigh, turkey, or lean beef; 8 ounces (225 g) whole milk ricotta cheese, excess liquid drained; ½ cup panko, or coarse breadcrumbs; 2 large eggs, lightly beaten; ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried basil or chopped fresh parsley); 2 teaspoons grated or finely chopped garlic; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, or crushed red pepper; Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste; Extra virgin olive oil, for baking or frying

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 1 review

If you’re craving something fresh, vibrant, and packed with Mediterranean flair, you need to try this Greek Chicken Skewers with Yogurt Sauce Recipe. These skewers bring together juicy, tender chicken morsels grilled to perfection and paired with a cooling, tangy yogurt sauce that complements every bite beautifully. The combination is simple, yet utterly irresistible — perfect for a casual dinner or an impressive weekend gathering with friends. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become your go-to recipe for any occasion that calls for delicious, wholesome comfort food with a Greek twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl holds several layered ingredients ready to be mixed: a pinkish ground meat base, a pool of orange-colored liquid on one side, shredded dark green leafy herbs scattered on top, a heap of fine pale yellow grated cheese near the center, and two dollops of thick white cheese on the right side. A wooden spoon lies inside the bowl, resting on the white cheese, while a metal mixing spoon is also placed in the bowl toward the top right. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface surrounded by a bunch of fresh green basil leaves, a small wooden dish with coarse salt, a white pepper mill, a glass bowl with a whisk and a light yellow sauce, and two small brown bowls containing breadcrumbs and grated cheese. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients for this dish is a breeze, and each one plays a key role in delivering authentic flavors, amazing texture, and that signature bright color you expect from Greek cuisine. These staples are easy to find but essential for making the magic happen.

Chicken breast or thigh: Choose whichever you prefer; thighs bring extra juiciness, while breasts offer a leaner bite.
Greek yogurt: Thick and creamy, it forms the base of the yogurt sauce and adds a refreshing tang.
Lemon juice: This brightens the marinade and yogurt sauce with fresh citrus zing.
Garlic: Adds aromatic depth in both the marinade and sauce.
Olive oil: For marinating and grilling, it helps keep the chicken tender and adds that rich Mediterranean flavor.
Dried oregano: A classic herb that brings authentic Greek taste to the dish.
Cucumber: Grated into the yogurt sauce for extra crunch and cooling effect.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to balance and bring everything together.
Wooden skewers: Perfect for grilling and serving the chicken in that irresistible kebab style.

How to Make Greek Chicken Skewers with Yogurt Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Marinade

Start by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This marinade infuses the chicken with layers of bright, herbal, and savory flavors that will caramelize beautifully on the grill. Cut your chicken into generous bite-sized pieces and toss them in the marinade, making sure every morsel is coated. Letting the chicken rest for at least 30 minutes allows those flavors to sink deep into the meat.

Step 2: Thread the Chicken onto Skewers

Once marinated, it’s time to bring on the fun. Thread the chicken pieces carefully onto your soaked wooden skewers, leaving a little space between each piece. This spacing ensures even cooking and lets the smoky grill work its magic all around each bite. Make as many skewers as you like to match your guest list or family size.

Step 3: Make the Yogurt Sauce

The yogurt sauce is the cooling hero of this dish. Combine thick Greek yogurt with finely grated cucumber, garlic, a squeeze of lemon juice, a drizzle of olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything until smooth and creamy, then chill it in the fridge. This sauce adds a refreshing contrast to the smoky, spiced chicken and will have everyone dipping their skewers eagerly.

Step 4: Grill the Skewers

Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat and place the skewers carefully on the grates. Cook them for about 10 to 12 minutes total, turning every few minutes to get that gorgeous golden-brown char on all sides. The chicken should be cooked through but still juicy inside, so keep an eye on the heat to avoid drying out. The smell during grilling is already half the joy of this recipe!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once off the grill, let the skewers rest briefly. Then serve them alongside your chilled yogurt sauce and perhaps some warm pita bread or a fresh Greek salad. Prepare for the compliments to roll in – these Greek Chicken Skewers with Yogurt Sauce Recipe skewers bring such a satisfying balance of flavors and textures, your friends will want the recipe too!

How to Serve Greek Chicken Skewers with Yogurt Sauce Recipe

A white pan with a gold handle holds nine browned meatballs, arranged in a loose circle with some spaced apart in the center. The meatballs have a crispy dark brown crust with lighter golden and beige spots. Light oily residue and browned bits are scattered across the pan’s surface, showing the cooking process. To the left side of the image, a wooden spatula rests partially under the pan, and fresh green basil leaves lie on a white cloth. Above the pan, a wooden bowl with coarse salt and garlic cloves sit on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation and add an extra burst of color and flavor, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley, dill, or mint over the finished skewers. A light dusting of smoked paprika or a few crumbled feta cheese pieces also adds visual interest and complements the Greek flavors wonderfully.

Side Dishes

Pair these skewers with traditional sides like warm pita bread, Greek salad with tomatoes and cucumbers, or lemony roasted potatoes. You could also serve them over fluffy couscous or a bed of herbed rice for a heartier meal. The versatility of this recipe means it fits perfectly into whatever meal style you prefer.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve the skewers on a large wooden board dotted with small bowls of the yogurt sauce, olives, and freshly sliced vegetables. Wrap the chicken and sauce inside warm flatbreads for a handy sandwich-style dinner, or turn the skewers into a meze platter with assorted Mediterranean dips for a social dining experience. The options are delightfully endless.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover skewers, store the chicken and yogurt sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken will stay delicious for up to 3 days, while the yogurt sauce maintains its freshness for about the same time frame.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken skewers by wrapping them tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Be sure to thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve their juicy texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftover skewers gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can make the chicken dry. Reheat the yogurt sauce separately or serve it cold for maximum flavor and creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this Greek Chicken Skewers with Yogurt Sauce Recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well if you prefer leaner meat, but be sure not to overcook them to keep the skewers juicy. Thighs are more forgiving, but both cuts give fantastic results.

How long should I marinate the chicken for best flavor?

Marinating for at least 30 minutes is ideal, but if you have more time, letting the chicken rest for up to 4 hours will deepen the flavors wonderfully.

Is it necessary to soak wooden skewers before grilling?

Yes, soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes prevents them from burning or catching fire on the grill, making your cooking safer and easier.

Can the yogurt sauce be made in advance?

Definitely! The yogurt sauce actually tastes better when made a few hours ahead because the flavors meld beautifully. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.

What if I don’t have a grill or grill pan?

No worries! You can cook the skewers under a broiler or even in a hot oven on a broiler pan. Just watch closely to achieve a lovely char without overcooking.

Final Thoughts

This Greek Chicken Skewers with Yogurt Sauce Recipe is a joyful celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients and classic flavors that feel both comforting and special. Whether you’re feeding family or hosting friends, these skewers provide an easy way to impress without stress. So go ahead, fire up the grill, whip up that tangy yogurt sauce, and get ready to enjoy a little taste of the Mediterranean right at home. You’ll be making these again and again!

Greek Chicken Skewers with Yogurt Sauce Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need