When I think of Greek cuisine, I’m instantly transported to a sun-drenched terrace overlooking the Aegean Sea, with the tantalizing aroma of fresh herbs and succulent meats wafting through the air. This easy Greek chicken dinner—oh, where do I begin?
It’s like a vacation on a plate, bursting with zesty lemon, fragrant garlic, and all those delightful Mediterranean flavors that make my heart sing. I remember the first time I tried a dish like this—it was at a tiny taverna in Santorini, and I’ve been trying to capture that magic ever since.
Now, with this recipe, I can almost hear the waves crashing on a distant shore as I prepare it in my own cozy kitchen. Perfect for a weeknight when you need a quick escape, this dish is a trusty companion that’ll make you fall in love with Greek flavors all over again.
Steps
- Mix the yogurt, olive oil, chicken pieces, garlic, shallots, paprika, oregano, chili flakes, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Allow the chicken to marinate for 15 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate overnight.
- Heat the oven to 425°F. Spread the marinated chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes. Toss the chicken, then bake for another 5-10 minutes until fully cooked. Broil for 1-2 minutes to char the edges.
- While the chicken cooks, mix cucumbers, avocado, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper in a bowl to make a quick salad.
- For the tahini sauce, blend all ingredients with 1/4 cup of water until smooth, adding more water to reach the desired consistency. Adjust the seasoning with salt.
- To assemble the bowls, start with a base of lettuce. Add the cooked chicken, cucumber and avocado mix, and crumbled feta. Add tzatziki sauce and drizzle the ginger tahini over the top.
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup full-fat plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cubed
- 6 garlic cloves, chopped
- 2 shallots, chopped
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- Chili flakes
- Kosher salt
- Black pepper
- 2 Persian cucumbers, chopped
- 1 avocado, diced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 6 ounces crumbled feta cheese
- 1-2 cups tzatziki sauce
- Lettuce, for serving
- Peperoncini, for serving
- Onion, for serving
- Tomatoes, for serving
- Pitas, for serving
FAQ
- What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well for this recipe. They should be cubed before marinating.
- Can I use store-bought tzatziki sauce instead of making it at home?
- Yes, while a homemade tzatziki sauce is recommended for freshness, a store-bought version can be a convenient substitute.
- How long should the chicken be marinated?
- The chicken should be marinated for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, but for enhanced flavor, you can marinate it overnight in the refrigerator.
- What are some key toppings to include in the Chicken Tzatziki Bowls?
- Essential toppings include shredded lettuce, cucumber, avocado, crumbled feta, fresh dill, and peperoncini. Tomatoes and onions can also be added according to preference.
- How can I serve these bowls for a complete meal?
- Serve the Chicken Tzatziki Bowls with warm naan or pitas and a side of homemade fries for a satisfying meal.
Tips
- Marinate the Chicken for Extra Flavor: If you have some additional time, allow the chicken to marinate for several hours or overnight in the refrigerator. This will help the flavors of the yogurt, garlic, and spices to penetrate the meat more deeply, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
- Utilize Store-Bought Tzatziki for Convenience: While making homemade tzatziki sauce can be delicious, opting for a good quality store-bought version can save time without sacrificing much flavor. This allows you to focus on other elements of the dish.
- Customize with Toppings: Feel free to personalize your bowl with extra toppings like tomatoes, peperoncini, or even olives. These additions can enhance the taste and texture, making each serving unique and tailored to your preferences.
- Prepare for Leftovers: This dish works wonderfully as leftovers. The sauces, especially, can last for several days and be used in other meals. Consider making extra to enjoy for quick lunches throughout the week.
Equipment
- Sheet Pan – For roasting the chicken.
- Blender – For making the tahini sauce smooth.
- Mixing Bowls – For marinating the chicken and mixing the salad ingredients.
