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Fresh Grilled Mediterranean Chicken Recipe with Easy Creamy Tzatziki Sauce

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A quick and satisfying grilled chicken recipe infused with Mediterranean flavors, paired perfectly with a creamy, refreshing tzatziki sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds / 680 grams)
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, finely chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat preferred)
  • 1/2 large cucumber, peeled and finely grated (or 1 small cucumber)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until well mixed.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, turning to coat evenly. Seal or cover, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 1 to 2 hours for maximum flavor.
  3. Make the Tzatziki Sauce: Peel and grate the cucumber. Place grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and squeeze gently to remove excess moisture. In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, chopped dill, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
  4. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high (about 400°F / 200°C). Oil the grill grates lightly to prevent sticking.
  5. Grill the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Avoid flipping too often—just once or twice to develop a nice char.
  6. Rest the Chicken: Transfer grilled chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes to lock in the juices.
  7. Serve: Slice the chicken and serve immediately with a generous dollop of creamy tzatziki sauce on top or on the side.

Notes

Marinate chicken for 1-2 hours for best flavor but avoid over 8 hours to prevent mushy texture. Drain cucumber well to avoid watery tzatziki. Let chicken rest after grilling to keep it juicy. Can substitute chicken thighs or bake at 425°F for 20-25 minutes if no grill available. For dairy-free tzatziki, use coconut yogurt and skip olive oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken, Mediterranean chicken, tzatziki sauce, easy chicken recipe, healthy chicken, Greek yogurt sauce, lemon garlic chicken