Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Plate
Highlighted under: Around the World Recipes
I absolutely love this Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Plate! Every bite takes me on a flavor journey with its zesty, herb-infused chicken, vibrant vegetables, and creamy tzatziki. The combination of fresh ingredients and simple preparation makes it a go-to for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Plus, it’s packed with protein and nutrients, ensuring that it’s both delicious and satisfying. If you're looking to impress your guests or simply enjoy a wholesome meal, this dish is sure to be a hit!
Trying out this Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Plate has transformed my approach to weeknight dinners. The key is marinating the chicken in a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs, which not only enhances flavor but keeps it juicy on the grill. I recommend letting the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes to really soak in those zesty flavors.
Assembling the plate is half the fun! Arranging vibrant roasted vegetables and a dollop of homemade tzatziki not only makes for a beautiful presentation but also rounds out the dish perfectly. I especially love adding a sprinkle of feta cheese on top for extra creaminess and depth. Trust me, this plate is a feast for both the eyes and the palate!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Zesty flavors that brighten your meal
- A healthy balance of protein and vegetables
- Perfect for meal prepping and easy to customize
Perfecting the Marinade
The marinade for the chicken is crucial for infusing flavor and ensuring moistness. I recommend marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but if you have the time, letting it sit for 1-2 hours will enhance the herb and lemon notes further. When marinating, make sure the chicken is well-coated and consider using a resealable plastic bag for thorough coverage and easy cleanup.
As the chicken marinates, the acidity from the lemon juice tenderizes the meat, making it juicier when grilled. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for an extra zing. Just remember, balancing the flavors is key to achieving that delightful Mediterranean taste!
Grilling Tips
When grilling the chicken, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 450°F. Proper preheating is essential for achieving nice grill marks and sealing in the juices. Place the chicken on the grill and let it sear for about 7-8 minutes on one side without moving it; this promotes caramelization for added flavor. Flip only once to avoid drying out the meat.
After grilling, it's important to let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, preventing them from spilling out immediately upon cutting. If you're unsure about doneness, use a meat thermometer and aim for an internal temperature of 165°F.
Serving Suggestions
This Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Plate is incredibly versatile, making it an ideal choice for both casual dinners and entertaining guests. Consider pairing it with warm pita bread or roasted vegetables for added texture and flavor. You might also like to serve a side of quinoa or couscous for a heartier meal.
If you're meal prepping, store components separately in airtight containers to keep the salad fresh for up to 3 days. Assemble just before serving to maintain crispness. For a refreshing variation, swap out the feta with crumbled goat cheese or add some olives for an authentic Mediterranean twist.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Salad
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
For the Tzatziki Sauce
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce
In another bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate until serving.
Grill the Chicken
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from the marinade and grill for about 7-8 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and juices run clear. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Assemble the Plate
On each plate, place a bed of mixed greens, top with sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and a sprinkle of feta cheese. Serve with tzatziki sauce on the side.
Pro Tips
- Grilling the chicken on medium-high heat helps achieve those beautiful grill marks while keeping it juicy. For added flavor, consider adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the marinade.
Storage and Reheating
To ensure optimal freshness, store leftovers in an airtight container and consume within 3 days. When reheating grilled chicken, do so gently in the microwave on a low power setting; this helps prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a dash of olive oil for added flavor and moisture.
For tzatziki sauce, it can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator due to its yogurt base. Just give it a good stir before serving, as the ingredients may separate over time. If you find it too thick after refrigeration, mix in a splash of water or extra lemon juice to loosen it up.
Dietary Swaps and Variations
For a lower-carb option, consider substituting lettuce wraps for the mixed greens and skipping the feta in favor of avocado slices. You can also replace the chicken with grilled shrimp or tofu for a seafood or plant-based alternative, tailoring the dish to suit various dietary preferences.
If you're short on time, you can use pre-marinated chicken to streamline the cooking process. Many grocery stores offer flavorful options that will still deliver on taste. Just be cautious of the sodium content in pre-marinated varieties and adjust your seasoning accordingly when grilling.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but be mindful to adjust the cooking time to ensure it cooks through evenly.
→ What can I substitute for Greek yogurt in the tzatziki?
You can use sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative for a similar consistency.
→ How can I customize the vegetable salad?
Feel free to include any of your favorite veggies like bell peppers, olives, or avocados for more variety in flavor and texture.
→ Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely! The grilled chicken and tzatziki can be made in advance and eaten throughout the week. Just store them separately.
Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Plate
I absolutely love this Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Plate! Every bite takes me on a flavor journey with its zesty, herb-infused chicken, vibrant vegetables, and creamy tzatziki. The combination of fresh ingredients and simple preparation makes it a go-to for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Plus, it’s packed with protein and nutrients, ensuring that it’s both delicious and satisfying. If you're looking to impress your guests or simply enjoy a wholesome meal, this dish is sure to be a hit!
Created by: Brittany Shaw
Recipe Type: Around the World Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Salad
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
For the Tzatziki Sauce
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
In another bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate until serving.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from the marinade and grill for about 7-8 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and juices run clear. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
On each plate, place a bed of mixed greens, top with sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and a sprinkle of feta cheese. Serve with tzatziki sauce on the side.
Extra Tips
- Grilling the chicken on medium-high heat helps achieve those beautiful grill marks while keeping it juicy. For added flavor, consider adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the marinade.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 425 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
- Sodium: 270mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 36g