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Greek Chicken Kebabs with Cucumber Sauce

Greek Chicken Kebabs

Inspired by the Greek dish, Souvlaki with Tzatziki, I thought it easier to call it Greek kebabs with cucumber sauce. You'll love the flavor that the lemon and herbs impart on the meat.

Traditionally, Souvlaki was made with lamb. Early Greek immigrants found lamb to be too expensive in America and therefore began using lesser priced pork.

Throughout the various regions of the Mediterranean, you'll encounter several versions of Souvlaki. Some use goat, lamb and pork. I decided to give it a go with chicken.

Try it on tortillas or stuff a pita pocket. I prefer to just slap it on a plate with white rice and grilled vegetables.

Traditionally, I've only seen meat on the skewer, but you're more than welcome to add your choice of veggies to the skewer if you see fit. It's your grill, do as you please. Additionally, if you choose to use another meat besides chicken, follow the same recipe. Just adjust your cooking time accordingly.



Ingredients

  • 4 boneless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch squares.
  • 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/3 cup dry white wine
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1-1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1-1/2 teaspoons oregano
  • 1-1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 3/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 3/4 teaspoon dried marjoram
  • 3/4 teaspoon dried sage
  • 3/4 teaspoon dried basil

Directions

  1. Add all ingredients except the chicken in a bowl and mix well. Pour marinade into a large plastic freezer bag and add the chicken breasts. Press out the air and seal. Refrigerate for 4 to 8 hours.
  2. Remove chicken from freezer bag and pour remaining marinade into a small sauce pan. Bring to a boil and reduce heat. Simmer for 8 minutes. Note: Never reuse a marinade that has had raw meat soaking in it unless you first boil it for several minutes. Allow to cool.
  3. Slide chicken pieces onto the skewers.
  4. Prepare a gas or charcoal grill. Over high heat, grill skewers for 5 to 7 minutes per side, rotating and basting frequently with the reserved marinade. When cooked through, remove from grill. Serve with cucumber sauce.



Cucumber Sauce

Greek Chicken Kebabs
  • 1/2 large cucumber, peeled, seeded and chopped
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons onion, finely chopped
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • A couple sprigs of fresh mint, finely chopped (optional)


  1. Add onion, garlic, salt and pepper to the yogurt and whisk until well blended.
  2. Add cucumber and mix well.
  3. Sprinkle with fresh mint, if desired.

Happy Grilling!