Greek Chicken Skewers with Yogurt Sauce

Greek Chicken Skewers with Yogurt Sauce: A Mediterranean Delight

Introduction

Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with these delectable Greek Chicken Skewers paired with a creamy yogurt sauce. This recipe combines the tangy zest of lemon and the warmth of Maras pepper with the cooling freshness of a tahini-laced yogurt sauce, making it a perfect choice for a summer meal. Whether grilled outdoors or cooked on a stovetop grill pan, these skewers promise to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• Finely grated zest of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup lemon juice (from 2 lemons)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 clove garlic, finely chopped
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon Maras pepper (or substitute with 1/2 teaspoon paprika and 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper)
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 3/4-inch cubes

For the Yogurt Sauce:

• 1 cup plain yogurt, any variety
• 2 tablespoons tahini
• 3 to 4 teaspoons lemon juice (from half a lemon)
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

To Serve:

• 4 (6-inch) pita breads (leave whole; do not split)
• 12 cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 Persian cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup packed arugula
• Leaves from 3 to 4 sprigs mint

Directions

1. Make the Chicken Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, garlic, Maras pepper, salt, and pepper. Gradually whisk in the olive oil.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Scoop out and set aside 1/4 cup of the marinade for serving. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl with the remaining marinade. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours if time allows.
3. Prepare the Yogurt Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk the tahini and yogurt until smooth. Stir in 3 teaspoons of lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning with more lemon juice, salt, or pepper as needed.
4. Cook the Chicken on a Grill:
   • Outdoor Grill: Soak 6 bamboo skewers in warm water or use metal skewers. Preheat the grill to medium-high and oil the grates. Thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers and grill for about 3 to 4 minutes each side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
   • Stovetop Grill Pan: Heat a cast iron grill pan over medium-high heat until hot. Lightly oil the pan, then cook the chicken pieces, turning often, for about 4 to 6 minutes, or until fully cooked.
5. Serve: Arrange the skewers on a platter with pita breads, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion, arugula, and mint leaves. Serve with the reserved marinade and yogurt sauce on the side.

Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Calories: 350 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4

Conclusion

These Greek Chicken Skewers with Yogurt Sauce are not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday dinner or something special for a weekend gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the fusion of Mediterranean flavors right at your dining table!