Grilled Tahini Chicken

You’ll love the Mediterranean flavors of this Grilled Tahini Chicken! This dish combines the nutty essence of tahini with juicy chicken, making it a delightful choice for family dinners, barbecues, or meal prep. The simplicity of the recipe and its vibrant taste make it suitable for any occasion, from casual weeknight meals to festive gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Flavorful: The tahini marinade infuses the chicken with a rich, nutty taste that elevates your meal.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few steps and minimal ingredients, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Grilled Tahini Chicken is great for batch cooking and can be easily reheated throughout the week.
• Versatile Pairing Options: Serve it with rice, salads, or roasted vegetables to create a balanced meal.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this recipe supports a nutritious diet.

Tools and Preparation

Getting the right tools ready will make your cooking experience smoother. Here’s what you’ll need to make delicious Grilled Tahini Chicken.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Glass measuring cup
• Whisk
• Freezer bag
• Rice cooker or pot

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides that perfect char and smoky flavor essential for grilled dishes.
• Glass measuring cup: Ensures accurate measurements for your marinade, leading to consistent results.
• Rice cooker or pot: Simplifies the rice cooking process, allowing you to focus on grilling the chicken perfectly.

Ingredients

You’ll love the Mediterranean flavors of this Grilled Tahini Chicken! Tahini gives the chicken a nutty flavor and keeps it tender and juicy.

For the Marinade

• 1/4 cup tahini
• 2 tablespoons chopped flat leaf parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons water
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon grated garlic
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Chicken

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, or a combination)

For Serving

• 1 cup white or brown rice
• 1 1/2 cups water (2 cups if using brown rice)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled Tahini Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a glass measuring cup, whisk together all of the ingredients for the marinade. Add the chicken to a freezer bag and pour in the marinade. Press out any air from the bag, seal it tightly, then massage the marinade into the chicken. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for 1-4 hours.

Step 2: Preheat Your Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or about 400-425°F. Clean and oil your grill grates before adding the chicken. While the grill is heating up, prepare your rice.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

Cook your rice according to package instructions. Before bringing it to a boil, stir in dill and lemon zest. Once cooked, turn off heat and add lemon juice. Cover again with a lid and let it steam for 10 minutes. Fluff it with a fork and check seasoning.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

When your grill is ready, place the marinated chicken on the grates. Cook for 4-6 minutes before flipping over. Continue grilling until reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove from grill and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving with rice. During these last few minutes of grilling, place a halved lemon cut side down on the grill until golden brown.

How to Serve Grilled Tahini Chicken

Grilled Tahini Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile, making it a great option for various meal occasions. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Salad

• Mediterranean Salad: Combine cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese for a refreshing and crunchy accompaniment.
• Tabbouleh: This herby salad made from bulgur, parsley, and lemon pairs well with the nutty flavors of tahini.

On a Wrap

• Tahini Chicken Wrap: Place grilled chicken in a warm pita with lettuce, tomatoes, and a drizzle of tahini sauce for a quick lunch.
• Greek Flatbread: Use flatbreads as a base and top with grilled chicken and tzatziki sauce for a Mediterranean twist.

With Dips

• Hummus Trio: Serve slices of grilled chicken alongside different types of hummus such as classic, roasted red pepper, and garlic.
• Avocado Dip: A creamy avocado dip complements the grilled chicken nicely and adds an extra layer of flavor.

How to Perfect Grilled Tahini Chicken

Achieving the best flavor and tenderness in your Grilled Tahini Chicken is simple with these key tips.

• Bold Marinade: Always marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour to enhance flavor. The longer, the better!
• Proper Grill Temperature: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat (400-425°F) for optimal cooking results.
• Use Boneless Thighs: Boneless skinless thighs tend to remain juicy and tender compared to breasts during grilling.
• Rest After Cooking: Allow the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes after grilling. This helps retain its juices.
• Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to the marinade for more depth in flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Tahini Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Tahini Chicken can enhance the meal’s overall flavor profile. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and veggies makes a light yet filling side.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized offers sweetness that balances the tahini flavor.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: Packed with protein, quinoa pilaf makes a nutritious complement to grilled chicken.
4. Garlic Bread: Flavorful garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover tahini sauce on your plate.
5. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus provides a crisp texture and vibrant color next to the chicken.
6. Baba Ganoush: This smoky eggplant dip adds an interesting contrast to the nutty tahini flavors in the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Tahini Chicken, avoid these common mistakes to ensure a flavorful and tender dish.

• Ignoring the marinating time: Skipping or shortening the marinating time can result in less flavor and tenderness. Aim for at least 1 hour, but up to 4 hours is best for maximum taste.
• Using low-quality tahini: Not all tahini is created equal. Cheap brands may lack flavor. Choose high-quality tahini for a richer, nuttier taste in your marinade.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165° F for perfectly cooked chicken.
• Neglecting the grill prep: Failing to clean and oil the grill grates can cause sticking. Always preheat and prepare your grill properly to achieve those beautiful grill marks.
• Not letting the chicken rest: Cutting into the chicken immediately after grilling can cause juices to escape. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure it cools down before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing Grilled Tahini Chicken

• Wrap the grilled chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Use a freezer-safe bag or container for added protection.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Tahini Chicken

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350° F. Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil; heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short bursts (30 seconds) until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth, then cover and cook for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Grilled Tahini Chicken?

Grilled Tahini Chicken is a delicious Mediterranean dish made by marinating chicken in tahini along with herbs and spices, then grilling it to perfection.

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes! You can use either boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, or even a combination of both based on your preference.

How should I serve Grilled Tahini Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, salad, or roasted vegetables. Feel free to customize sides based on your taste!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Tahini Chicken combines rich Mediterranean flavors that are sure to impress family and friends. Its versatility allows you to serve it with various sides, making it perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe with your favorite herbs or spices—try it today!

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Grilled Tahini Chicken

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Grilled Tahini Chicken is a delightful Mediterranean dish that beautifully marries the rich, nutty essence of tahini with juicy, tender chicken. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for any occasion—be it family dinners, casual barbecues, or meal prep sessions. With its vibrant taste and versatility, this dish can be paired with various sides such as rice, salads, or roasted vegetables, making it an ideal choice for health-conscious eaters looking to elevate their meals. The marination process ensures each bite is packed with flavor, while the grilling technique adds a satisfying smoky char.

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1/4 cup tahini
• 2 tablespoons chopped flat leaf parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a glass measuring cup, whisk together tahini, parsley, dill, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Place chicken in a freezer bag and pour in marinade. Seal tightly and massage into the chicken; refrigerate for 1-4 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400-425°F). Clean and oil grill grates.
4. Grill marinated chicken for 4-6 minutes on each side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken (approximately 130g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: For added flavor, let the chicken marinate longer (up to four hours). Pair with fresh salads or dips like hummus for a complete meal.