Introduction
This Mediterranean Delight: Greek Chicken with Tzatziki is a perfect blend of fresh flavors, hearty protein, and creamy tzatziki sauce. It’s a healthy, vibrant, and flavorful meal that brings the Mediterranean straight to your table. With marinated Greek chicken, tangy red wine vinegar dressing, and a refreshing tzatziki sauce, this dish is a perfect option for meal prep, family dinners, or a light lunch. Packed with lean chicken, fresh vegetables, and a cooling yogurt sauce, it’s both nutritious and absolutely delicious.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for You
If you love Mediterranean flavors, this recipe is a must-try. It’s incredibly versatile, healthy, and easy to make, featuring juicy marinated chicken paired with fresh vegetables and homemade tzatziki. Whether you’re looking for a light, refreshing meal or something hearty but healthy, this Greek Chicken with Tzatziki hits all the right notes. Plus, it’s a fantastic dish to make ahead for meal prep or family-style dinners.
Ingredients
For the Greek Chicken:
- 1 lb. chicken breast, boneless, skinless, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Greek seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 8 oz. Greek yogurt, plain, full-fat
- 1/2 medium Persian cucumber, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, grated
- Zest of 1 medium lemon
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, minced
- Sea salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
For the Red Wine Vinegar Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon fresh oregano, minced
- Sea salt, to taste
For the Salad Toppings:
- 1 large Persian cucumber, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
Directions
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a sealable container, combine 1 lb. chicken cubes, 3 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon Greek seasoning, and 1/4 teaspoon sea salt. Toss the chicken until well coated, seal the container, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or, for best results, overnight. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful and tender it becomes.
2. Prepare the Tzatziki
While the chicken is marinating, make the tzatziki sauce. In a medium bowl, mix together 8 oz. Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, grated garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced dill, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well combined. Chill the tzatziki in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. This creamy and refreshing sauce will complement the savory chicken perfectly.
3. Cook the Chicken
Heat a large cast-iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until the chicken is browned and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Red Wine Vinegar Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon minced oregano, and sea salt to taste. This simple but flavorful dressing will tie the dish together and add an extra punch of flavor to the fresh vegetables.
5. Assemble the Bowls
To assemble the Greek chicken bowls, divide the cooked chicken among four bowls. Add the sliced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, red onion slices, and Kalamata olives to each bowl. Drizzle with the red wine vinegar dressing, and finally, top each bowl with a generous dollop of the tzatziki sauce.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Enjoy your Mediterranean Delight: Greek Chicken with Tzatziki as a light yet satisfying meal. It’s delicious served warm, and perfect for lunch or dinner. Garnish with extra lemon wedges or fresh dill for a burst of extra freshness.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Sealable container for marinating the chicken
- Large cast-iron skillet or grill pan
- Grater for cucumber and garlic
- Mixing bowls for the tzatziki and dressing
- Whisk for making the dressing
Tips and Shortcuts
- Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken and prepare the tzatziki ahead of time. When you’re ready to eat, simply cook the chicken and assemble the bowls.
- Quick Chicken Tip: If you’re short on time, grill the chicken whole and slice it after cooking instead of cubing it before marinating.
- Tzatziki Tip: For an extra creamy tzatziki, strain the grated cucumber through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove excess water.
Recipe Swaps and Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Swap out the chicken for grilled halloumi or marinated tofu for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- Add Grains: For a more substantial meal, add quinoa, farro, or brown rice to the bowl.
- Herb Swaps: If you don’t have fresh dill, you can use fresh mint or parsley in the tzatziki for a different flavor profile.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the ingredients fresh, store the chicken, tzatziki, and salad toppings separately, and assemble the bowls just before serving.
Reheat the chicken in a skillet or microwave, and serve with the chilled tzatziki and vegetables for a quick and easy meal.
Food and Drink Pairings
This Greek Chicken with Tzatziki pairs beautifully with a crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio. The acidity and brightness of the wine enhance the fresh flavors of the chicken and tzatziki.
For non-alcoholic options, try serving this dish with sparkling water infused with cucumber and lemon, or a light iced tea for a refreshing complement to the savory flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I grill the chicken instead of cooking it in a skillet?
A: Absolutely! Grilling the chicken adds a nice smoky flavor. Just make sure to cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Q: Can I use regular cucumbers for the tzatziki?
A: Yes! If you can’t find Persian cucumbers, you can use any variety of cucumber. Just make sure to peel and deseed larger cucumbers to avoid excess moisture.
Q: Can I use store-bought tzatziki?
A: Yes, if you’re short on time, store-bought tzatziki works well. However, homemade tzatziki adds a fresher, more vibrant flavor.
Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream Sauce recipe.
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Mediterranean Delight: Greek Chicken with Tzatziki
Description
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with Greek Chicken topped with creamy Tzatziki. A delicious and refreshing dish perfect for any meal!