Mediterranean Grilled Chicken with Tzatziki

Zesty and garlicky flavors bring this household favorite protein into a new light. Marinated in a blend of olive oil, lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs, this dish is both healthy and delicious. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, it pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or roasted veggies.

There’s something undeniably satisfying about grilling in the summer, it’s almost a mandatory summer activity. The aroma of perfectly marinated chicken and the sizzling sound as it cooks on the grill racks… is just relaxing. Let’s throw away the assumption that chicken breast is bland and dry. Fresh Mediterranean and Greek flavors come together in this recipe, bringing bright and vibrant flavors. And what’s better than topping a perfectly grilled chicken breast with fresh homemade Tzatziki? This dish brings together a simple cooking method and humble ingredients combining bold, tangy flavors that define this cuisine.

Why Make This Mediterranean Grilled Chicken?

The USDA reported that 97 pounds, on average, of chicken is consumed per person in America. Chicken is the most readily consumed protein in the United States. As you can imagine and may have experienced, chicken recipes can become boring and monotonous as a result.

Fresh and Bright Flavor Profile - Marinated in a blend of fresh lemon, garlic, and herbs ensuring a tender texture with a complex zesty and refreshing flavor each bite.

Perfect for Summer - This chicken recipe does not eat heavy, quite the contrary, it’s light yet satisfying. Ideal for hot summer evenings, backyard barbecues, and great for a crowd.

Easy to Prepare - Only a handful of simple ingredients are needed to make this an easy-to-make and easy-to-follow go-to recipe.

Versatile - Serve as the main entree alongside a side salad, or as the protein source for sandwiches or wraps. A chicken recipe that truly adapts to your needs and preferences.

Let’s Talk Nutrition

Chicken is an open canvas for any cuisine and flavor profile and offers amazing health benefits.

Chicken Breast: Lean and high in protein, chicken breast contains all nine essential amino acids, aiding to help build and maintain muscle mass. Chicken breast contains numerous nutrients like B vitamins, vitamin D, zinc, calcium, and iron. These nutrients help support energy production, DNA synthesis, and overall health.

Lemon: Citrus is known to be rich in vitamin C, and lemons are no exception. Lemons may help boost your immune system and improve skin health. Lemon adds a refreshing, vibrant, and light flavor that lends its acidity to help tenderize the chicken, making it even more succulent.

Fresh Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties, garlic adds not only depth and complexity to the marinade, but also brings a wealth of antioxidants.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A great source of dietary fats and a heart-healthy oil option with antioxidant properties. See my post here to learn more about olive oil.

Tzatziki: Made with Greek yogurt, cucumbers, lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs, tzatziki is delicious and nutrient-dense. Greek yogurt is rich in protein and probiotics, which promote gut health while the cucumber provides freshness.

How to Make: Ingredients and Steps

Ingredients -

Chicken Breast: This is a personal preference whether boneless skinless is opted for, or skin on to help retain moisture while cooking. If preferred, chicken thighs can be used.

Lemon: Zested and juiced.

Fresh Garlic: Ground garlic can be used if fresh garlic is not on hand.

Capers: Salty and briny with a slight lemon flavor capers add a punch of flavor and depth to the marinade.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A high-quality oil has a beautiful aroma and taste. The oil serves to help coat the chicken with the seasonings while keeping the chicken breast tender and moist.

Fresh Oregano and Rosemary: Dried oregano can be used if fresh is not on hand. Thyme, Sage, or Parsley can also be used.

Salt and Pepper: To taste

Tzatziki: See my recipe here to make while the chicken is being prepared or prepped ahead of time.

Steps -

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.

2. Next, trim the chicken if necessary, and add the whole chicken breasts to a gallon-sized ziploc bag. Add the marinade to the bag and seal, pressing out the air. Lightly shake the bag to coat the chicken evenly. Place the bag onto a plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and infuse.

3. Make the Tzatziki.

4. Prep and preheat the grill to approximately 400 degrees Fahrenheit and scrape any leftover crusts from prior cooking.

5. Remove the chicken breasts from the sealed bag allowing any excess marinade to drip off before placing them on the grill. Cook the chicken breasts for about 6 to 8 minutes per side - cooking time may vary depending on size and thickness. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

I like to take my chicken off the grill at 155 to 160 degrees Fahrenheit as the chicken continues to cook once taken off the grill. This ensures that the chicken is not overcooked and remains juicy.

6. Remove the chicken from the grill and allow them to rest before slicing. If serving whole, generously dollop the Tzatziki onto a serving plate and gently spread. Place the cooked chicken breast on top, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve immediately, enjoy!

Serving Suggestions:

Versatile and easy to prepare, this recipe is great to serve as the main entree alongside a side salad, or as the protein source for sandwiches or wraps.

Orzo Salad: Check out my post here to make this delicious Mediterranean Orzo Salad.

Simple Summer Salad: Check out my recipe here to make this refreshing salad. If you’re looking for a salad…minus the lettuce, this recipe is for you!

Wrap or sandwich: When in doubt, put it in a wrap, or pita in this case. This is a very common saying in my household for quick, easy, delicious, and nutritious meals. The flavor variations are endless whether you crave a Greek salad rendition with tomatoes, red onion, and feta or go the route of the viral chicken Caesar wrap.

Salad: Top your salad(s) with this fresh and bright chicken and enjoy a protein-rich lunch and/or dinner.

If you’re looking to elevate your chicken dinners and hone your grilling skills, this Mediterranean Grilled Chicken with Tzatziki is the way to go. It’s a dish that embodies the best of summer—fresh, flavorful, and easy to make. Plus, the leftovers make for an excellent addition to salads or wraps the next day.