Grilled Za’atar Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Juicy chicken skewers marinated in fragrant za’atar and lemon, grilled to perfection, served alongside a cooling cucumber tzatziki sauce. This middle eastern-inspired chicken (low carb) ready in about 30 minutes blends za’atar spice blend, lemon juice, olive oil into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Middle Eastern cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp za’atar, 3 tbsp lemon juice, 2 tbsp olive oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper to create the marinade.
  2. Step 2: Add 1 lb chicken thigh pieces to the marinade, tossing to coat completely. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  3. Step 3: Meanwhile, prepare the tzatziki by combining 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1/2 cup finely grated and drained cucumber, 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill, 1 tsp fresh lemon zest, 1 minced garlic clove, and 1 tsp olive oil in a small bowl. Mix well and refrigerate.
  4. Step 4: Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers.
  5. Step 5: Grill chicken skewers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F and edges are slightly charred.
  6. Step 6: Serve the hot skewers with chilled tzatziki sauce on the side for dipping.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Grilled Za’atar Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 30 minutes (15 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Grilled Za’atar Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Grilled Za’atar Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Grilled Za’atar Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Grilled Za’atar Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce low carb?

Yes — this recipe is tagged low carb based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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