Low-Carb Chicken Souvlaki Skewers with Whipped Garlic Goat Cheese Dip
Low-Carb Chicken Souvlaki Skewers with Whipped Garlic Goat Cheese Dip are a fresh, flavorful, and satisfying Mediterranean-inspired meal perfect for healthy lunches, weeknight dinners, or outdoor grilling. Tender marinated chicken is threaded onto skewers and cooked until juicy and lightly charred, then paired with a creamy whipped goat cheese dip infused with garlic, lemon, and olive oil.
This recipe delivers bold Greek-style flavor while staying naturally low in carbohydrates. The bright lemon marinade, aromatic oregano, and smoky paprika create deliciously seasoned chicken, while the creamy goat cheese dip adds richness and tangy balance. Served with crisp cucumber slices, olives, and lettuce wraps, these skewers are light, protein-packed, and incredibly versatile.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes to 4 hours
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4–6
Ingredients
For the Chicken Souvlaki
2 lbs chicken breast or thighs, cut into chunks
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Wooden or metal skewers
Whipped Garlic Goat Cheese Dip
6 oz goat cheese, softened
1/4 cup Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Low-Carb Sides
Cucumber slices
Cherry tomatoes
Olives
Lettuce leaves or low-carb wraps
Fresh herbs such as parsley or dill
Instructions
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes before cooking to help prevent burning.
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until fully combined.
Add the chicken chunks to the marinade and toss until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
While the chicken marinates, prepare the whipped garlic goat cheese dip.
In a food processor or mixing bowl, combine softened goat cheese, Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
Blend or whisk until smooth, creamy, and fluffy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving small spaces between pieces for even cooking.
Grill Method
Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates. Grill the skewers for 10–15 minutes, turning every few minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly charred.
Oven Method
Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F). Place skewers on a lined baking tray and bake for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through. Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for extra color.
Air Fryer Method
Arrange skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry at 200°C (400°F) for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway through cooking.
Transfer the cooked skewers to a serving platter and let rest for a few minutes.
Serve warm with whipped garlic goat cheese dip, cucumber slices, olives, cherry tomatoes, and lettuce wraps or low-carb sides of your choice.
Garnish with fresh parsley or dill before serving.
Tips
Use chicken thighs for extra juicy and flavorful skewers.
Marinate the chicken longer for deeper Mediterranean flavor.
Cut chicken into evenly sized chunks for consistent cooking.
Do not overcrowd the skewers so the chicken cooks evenly.
Bring chicken slightly closer to room temperature before grilling for better texture.
Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
Preheat the grill properly to achieve beautiful char marks.
Turn skewers frequently to prevent burning and uneven cooking.
Let the cooked chicken rest for a few minutes to keep it juicy.
Blend the goat cheese dip until very smooth for a light and creamy texture.
Variations
Add bell peppers, onions, or zucchini between chicken pieces on the skewers.
Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood version.
Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper for spicy souvlaki skewers.
Swap goat cheese with feta for a different Mediterranean-style dip.
Use fresh oregano instead of dried for brighter herbal flavor.
Serve over cauliflower rice for a complete low-carb meal.
Add cucumber and herbs to create a tzatziki-inspired dip variation.
Wrap the skewers in lettuce leaves with tomatoes and olives for easy low-carb wraps.
Try smoked paprika for a richer smoky flavor.
Add grilled halloumi cheese alongside the skewers for extra protein and texture.
FAQs
Can I make the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, the chicken can marinate overnight for even better flavor.
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely. Chicken breast is leaner, while thighs stay juicier.
How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F), and the chicken should no longer be pink inside.
Can I cook these indoors?
Yes, a grill pan, skillet, oven, or air fryer all work well.
Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Yes, freeze it in the marinade for up to 2 months.
What can I use instead of goat cheese?
Cream cheese, feta, or ricotta can work as substitutes.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, it is naturally low-carb and works well for keto diets.
How long does the dip last?
The whipped goat cheese dip can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, skip the dip or use a dairy-free yogurt-based sauce.
What sides pair best with souvlaki skewers?
Cucumber salad, cauliflower rice, grilled vegetables, and lettuce wraps pair perfectly.
Nutrition
(Approximate per serving)
Calories: 380–470
Protein: 35–42g
Fat: 22–28g
Carbohydrates: 4–8g
Fiber: 1–2g
Sugar: 2–4g
Conclusion
Low-Carb Chicken Souvlaki Skewers with Whipped Garlic Goat Cheese Dip are a fresh and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines juicy marinated chicken with a rich, creamy garlic dip. Packed with protein and low in carbohydrates, this recipe is perfect for healthy eating without sacrificing bold flavor. Whether grilled outdoors, baked in the oven, or cooked in the air fryer, these skewers are simple, versatile, and satisfying enough for any occasion.