Savory Chicken Skewers with Homemade Tzatziki

 
Confession: I have never been 100% sure how to say tzatziki. And, according to several online sources, I have been saying it wrong all along!

Tzatziki (pronounced tsah-ZEE-kee, the second 't' is silent) is a tangy combination of yogurt, cucumber, garlic and other flavours that is popular in Greek cuisine. I love it in wraps, with grilled meats, as a dip for veggies, or on pita bread. I have recently started making my own, and will never go back to store-bought again!

Here is a recipe for savory marinated grilled chicken skewers. Serve the tzatziki alongside the chicken (or vice versa!) for a delicious, light meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 tsp each of paprika and  red pepper flakes
  • 1 cup plain greek yogurt
  • 3 tbsp. olive oil
  • 2 tbsp. red wine vinegar
  • 1 tbsp. tomato paste
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • juice of 1 lemon
  • salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 1/4 pounds boneless skinless chicken (breast or thigh), cut into 1 1/4 inch cubes
  • 6 Wooden skewers, soaked for 30 min
For the Homemade Tzatziki:
  • 1 cup greek yogurt
  • 3/4 cup English cucumber, peeled, seeds removed, finely diced
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 tsp dried dill (or 1 tbsp fresh)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:

1. Combine the red pepper flakes, paprika, yogurt, olive oil, red wine vinegar, tomato paste, garlic, lemon juice, salt and pepper in a large bowl, and whisk to combine.

2. Add diced chicken and toss to coat in the marinade. Cover and chill for at least 1 hour or overnight.

3. Heat barbeque over medium-high heat. Thread chicken pieces onto wooden skewers, dividing equally.

4. Grill chicken, turning occasionally, for 10-12 minutes until cooked to an internal temperature of 74 degrees C (165 farenheit).


5. To make the tzatziki, combine the yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon and dill in a small bowl. Adjust ingredients to taste. Serve immediately or make ahead and store in an air-tight container for up to 3 days.

 
Serve the tzatziki alongside chicken skewers. Enjoy!
 
Natalee, RD

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