Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Plate

Name: Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Plate
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/4 cup olive oil; Juice of 2 lemons; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup bulgur wheat; 2 cups water; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/2 red onion, finely chopped; 1 bunch parsley, finely chopped; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 cucumber, grated and drained; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Authentic Recipes

I absolutely love preparing this Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Plate, as it brings a taste of the sun-drenched coasts right into my kitchen. The vibrant flavors of the herbs and spices combined with the juicy, grilled chicken make every bite feel like a mini vacation. With the addition of a fresh tabbouleh salad and creamy tzatziki sauce, this dish is not only mouthwatering but also packed with nutrients. It’s perfect for any gathering or a weeknight dinner when I want to impress without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Created by

Quincy Harper

Last updated on 2026-02-16T11:45:37.335Z

When I first tried this Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Plate, I was amazed at how the marinade infused so much flavor into the chicken. The combination of fresh herbs, lemon juice, and a hint of garlic creates an incredibly aromatic experience that really elevates the dish. Plus, grilling gives it that unbeatable charred taste that you just can’t replicate.

Over time, I’ve learned that letting the chicken sit in the marinade for a few hours—or even overnight—makes a significant difference. The result is tender, flavorful chicken that pairs perfectly with the refreshing tabbouleh and tangy tzatziki. It’s a dish that always leaves my guests wanting more!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Herbaceous and citrusy marinade that penetrates every bite
Deliciously charred grilled chicken for that perfect summer flavor
Great balance of protein, veggies, and healthy fats

Marination Magic

The marination process is crucial for achieving deeply flavored chicken. By allowing the chicken to soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes, you ensure the vibrant citrus and herb flavors fully penetrate the meat. For a richer flavor profile, marinating up to overnight is ideal. This not only amplifies the taste but also tenderizes the chicken, resulting in a juicy and succulent final dish. If you're short on time, even 30 minutes will yield tasty results, but don’t underestimate the benefits of a longer marination time.

When preparing the marinade, feel free to adjust the garlic and oregano based on your preference. If you prefer a garlicky punch, add an extra clove of minced garlic. Alternatively, fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary can substitute for dried oregano, bringing a different but delightful flavor to the chicken.

Perfecting Tabbouleh

A key component of this Mediterranean plate is the tabbouleh, which brings freshness and crunch. Ensure that your bulgur wheat is perfectly cooked: it should be fluffy and not gummy. After boiling the bulgur with water, allow it to rest with the lid on for about 15 minutes. When fluffing, a fork is best to separate the grains without mashing them together. This texture is essential to keep the salad light and enjoyable.

You can customize your tabbouleh by adding additional vegetables like bell peppers or radishes for extra color and crunch. If you're looking for a lighter version, consider reducing the bulgur and increasing the vegetable ratio, or even substituting quinoa for a gluten-free option. This not only varies the flavor but also enriches the nutritional profile of your meal.

Servings and Storage

Serving suggestions can elevate the dish even further. I like to garnish the grilled chicken with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a light drizzle of olive oil to enhance its presentation. Additionally, serving warm pita bread or a fresh green salad on the side can provide extra texture and flavor that complements the dish beautifully. Don't hesitate to serve this plate as a part of a larger spread during gatherings; it pairs wonderfully with other Mediterranean dishes.

If you have leftovers, store the grilled chicken and tabbouleh separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. The tzatziki can last up to a week. To reheat the chicken, aim for gentle heat to prevent it from drying out—microwaving on a low setting is effective. If you want to enjoy the tabbouleh cold, it's best served as is after a day in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld even further.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Plate:

For the Chicken Marinade

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup olive oil
Juice of 2 lemons
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Tabbouleh Salad

1 cup bulgur wheat
2 cups water
1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1 bunch parsley, finely chopped
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Tzatziki Sauce

1 cup Greek yogurt
1 cucumber, grated and drained
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste

Once you have all your ingredients ready, we can start cooking!

Instructions

Here’s how to prepare the Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Plate:

Prepare the Marinade and Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken breasts in a zip-top bag and pour the marinade over. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for enhanced flavor.

Cook the Tabbouleh Salad

In a small saucepan, combine bulgur wheat and water. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat and cover for about 15 minutes. Fluff with a fork and let it cool. Once cooled, mix in diced tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Grill the Chicken

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Make the Tzatziki Sauce

In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, dill, salt, and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Serve

On a plate, arrange slices of grilled chicken alongside the tabbouleh salad and a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce. Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean meal!

Don’t forget to enjoy your Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Plate with a spritz of fresh lemon juice on top!

Pro Tips

For a deeper flavor, consider using fresh herbs instead of dried, and let the chicken marinate for longer. Also, grilling on high heat ensures a good sear and keeps the chicken juicy.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling is a fantastic cooking method for the chicken as it adds a smoky char that enhances its richness. Preheating the grill to medium-high is key; this ensures that when the chicken touches the grill, it sears properly, sealing in the juices. Pay attention to the grill marks—once you see those, it’s time to flip! Undercooking slightly before resting is allowed, as it continues to cook during the resting period.

To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked chicken. If you don’t have one, the chicken should feel firm to the touch but still bounce back slightly when pressed.

Tzatziki Variations

Tzatziki sauce is incredibly versatile. While the classic version uses cucumber and dill, you can experiment with flavors. Adding mint instead of dill gives a refreshing twist, while a squeeze of lime instead of lemon can add a zingy edge. If you find the sauce too thick, incorporate a little water or additional yogurt to reach your desired consistency.

For additional nutrients, consider folding in finely diced vegetables like bell peppers or avocados for a richer dip. This not only enhances flavor but also gives you extra texture and color, making it visually appealing on your plate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?

Absolutely! This marinade works well with turkey, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply replace bulgur wheat in the tabbouleh with quinoa or cauliflower rice.

→ Can I make the tzatziki sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tzatziki sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Pita bread, grilled vegetables, or a simple green salad are great options to complement this meal.