2lbsboneless skinless chicken thighscut into 1.5-inch chunks
3tablespoonsextra virgin olive oil
3tablespoonsfresh lemon juiceabout 1 large lemon
1teaspoonlemon zest
4clovesgarlicminced
1.5teaspoonsdried oregano
1teaspoonkosher salt
0.5teaspoonblack pepperfreshly ground
0.5teaspoonsmoked paprika
8skewers(woodensoaked 30 min) or metal
1.5cupsfull-fat Greek yogurt
1mediumEnglish cucumbergrated and squeezed very dry
2clovesgarlicfinely minced or grated
2tablespoonsfresh dillchopped, plus more for garnish
1tablespoonfresh lemon juice
1tablespoonextra virgin olive oilplus more for drizzling
0.5teaspoonkosher saltor to taste
0.25teaspoonblack pepper
4pitabreadswarmed, optional
1lemon(cut into wedges)
freshdillor parsleyfor garnish
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Instructions
In a large zip-lock bag or bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika until combined.
Add the chicken thigh chunks to the marinade and toss to coat thoroughly. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight (up to 24 hours). If heading to a campsite, keep in a sealed bag in a well-chilled cooler.
Grate the English cucumber on the large holes of a box grater. Place the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze firmly until almost all moisture is removed. This step is crucial for thick, creamy tzatziki.
In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, squeezed cucumber, minced garlic, chopped dill, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir until fully combined.
Taste and adjust seasoning. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil, cover, and refrigerate until ready to serve. (Can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in a sealed jar in the cooler.)
If using wooden skewers, ensure they have been soaked in water for at least 30 minutes.
Remove the chicken from the marinade and thread the pieces onto skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece so they cook evenly. Aim for about 5-6 pieces per skewer.
Preheat your grill or campfire grill grate to medium-high heat (about 400°F). If cooking over a campfire, let the flames die down to hot glowing coals for the most even heat.
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, turning once or twice, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F) and has golden-brown char marks on the edges. Total grill time is approximately 12-15 minutes.
Remove skewers from the grill and let rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.
Arrange the skewers on a platter or board. Serve with tzatziki on the side for dipping, warm pita, fresh lemon wedges, and a garnish of fresh dill or parsley. Enjoy immediately.
Notes
Marinade tip: The longer the chicken marinates, the deeper the flavor — overnight is ideal. Make-ahead: Both the marinade (with chicken) and the tzatziki can be fully prepped at home before a camping trip. Storage: Leftover cooked chicken keeps in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Tzatziki keeps for up to 3 days. Reheat chicken gently in a skillet or eat cold in a wrap. Campfire tip: Let flames die to hot coals before grilling for the most even, controlled heat and the best char.