Grilled Tzatziki Chicken

Short Description

Grilled Tzatziki Chicken is a delightful Mediterranean dish that combines tender, marinated chicken breasts with a refreshing, homemade tzatziki sauce. This recipe offers a harmonious blend of tangy, herby, and savory flavors, making it a perfect choice for a light yet satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Grilled Tzatziki Chicken recipe is both flavorful and nutritious. The marinade infuses the chicken with a zesty and aromatic profile, while the tzatziki sauce adds a cool and creamy contrast. It’s an ideal dish for those seeking a healthy, protein-rich meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. Additionally, it’s versatile enough to be served in various ways, from wraps to salads.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 lemon, juiced (zest it first for the tzatziki)
• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• ½ cup grated cucumber, liquid squeezed out
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 teaspoons white wine vinegar
• 2 small cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for topping
• ½ teaspoon fresh dill, finely chopped

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a shallow bowl or zip-top bag, combine the lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well-coated with the marinade. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 12 hours for deeper flavor.
2. Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce: In a medium bowl, mix together the grated cucumber, Greek yogurt, white wine vinegar, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, pepper, olive oil, and fresh dill. Stir until well combined. Drizzle a little extra olive oil on top. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
3. Grill the Chicken: Preheat your outdoor grill, grill pan, or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
4. Serve: Slice the grilled chicken and serve alongside the chilled tzatziki sauce. This dish pairs well with pita bread, salads, or roasted vegetables.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes (plus marinating time)

Variations

• Herb Variations: Substitute or add herbs like fresh mint or parsley to the tzatziki for a different flavor profile.
• Spice Level: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicier kick.
• Protein Alternatives: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier texture.
• Serving Styles: Serve the grilled chicken and tzatziki in a wrap, over a salad, or alongside grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover grilled chicken and tzatziki sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken will keep for up to 3 days, while the tzatziki sauce is best consumed within 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Note that reheating may slightly dry out the chicken, so consider adding a splash of water or covering it to retain moisture. Tzatziki sauce should not be reheated; serve it cold.

FAQs

What is tzatziki sauce made of?

Tzatziki sauce is a traditional Greek condiment made from Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, vinegar or lemon juice, and fresh herbs like dill or mint. It is typically served cold as a dip or sauce.

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

While Greek yogurt is preferred for its thick and creamy texture, you can use regular yogurt. However, you may need to strain it through a cheesecloth or fine mesh sieve to remove excess liquid and achieve a similar consistency.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour. For deeper flavor penetration, marinating for up to 12 hours is recommended. Avoid marinating for more than 24 hours to prevent the chicken from becoming mushy.

Can I cook the chicken without a grill?

Yes, if you don’t have a grill, you can cook the marinated chicken in a grill pan or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Alternatively, you can bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. Grilled Tzatziki Chicken is excellent for meal prep. Store the cooked chicken and tzatziki sauce separately in the refrigerator. Assemble meals as needed over the next few days.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken in its marinade. Place the chicken and marinade in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

What sides pair well with this dish?

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, including Greek salad, roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or warm pita bread. The fresh flavors complement many Mediterranean-inspired sides.

How do I prevent the tzatziki sauce from becoming watery?

To prevent watery tzatziki, ensure you thoroughly squeeze out the excess moisture from the grated cucumber before mixing it with the yogurt. Also, store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I make the tzatziki sauce ahead of time?

Yes, tzatziki sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance. In fact, allowing it to sit in the refrigerator for a few hours enhances the flavors as they meld together.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the Grilled Tzatziki Chicken recipe is naturally gluten-free. However, if you’re serving it with pita bread or other sides, ensure those are gluten-free as well.

Conclusion

Grilled Tzatziki Chicken is a flavorful and versatile dish that brings the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean to your table. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or planning a meal for guests, this recipe offers a delightful combination of tender grilled chicken and creamy, herb-infused tzatziki sauce. Enjoy it in various serving styles and savor the refreshing flavors it brings.

Sources

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