Grilled Tahini Chicken

You’ll love the Mediterranean flavors of this Grilled Tahini Chicken! This dish combines tender chicken with a nutty tahini marinade, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or outdoor gatherings. The vibrant ingredients and easy preparation will impress family and friends alike, bringing a taste of the Mediterranean right to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The nutty tahini combined with fresh herbs creates a rich and savory flavor that elevates ordinary chicken.
• Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve this grilled chicken with rice, salads, or wraps for various meal ideas throughout the week.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this recipe is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Grill extra chicken to have on hand for lunches or quick dinners during the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools to make the process easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that delicious charred flavor while cooking the chicken evenly.
• Glass measuring cup: Allows precise measurement of liquids for marinades without any spills.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing the marinade thoroughly, ensuring every ingredient blends well together.

Ingredients

You’ll need the following ingredients to prepare your Grilled Tahini Chicken:

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 the Rice

• 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

How to Make Grilled Tahini Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a glass measuring cup, whisk together all of the marinade ingredients until smooth. Place the chicken in a freezer bag and pour in the marinade. Seal the bag while pressing out excess air, then massage it into the chicken. Allow it to marinate for 1-4 hours.

Step 2: Preheat Your Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400-425°F). Clean and oil the grill grates before placing the chicken on them. While waiting for the grill to heat up, start preparing your rice.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

Follow package instructions to cook your rice. Add in dill and lemon zest before bringing it to a boil. Once it’s cooked, turn off the heat and stir in lemon juice. Keep it covered for an additional 10 minutes to steam. Fluff with a fork when done.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Once your grill is ready, place the marinated chicken on it. Let it cook for 4-6 minutes on one side before flipping it over. Continue grilling until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove from heat and let rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving alongside your rice. For added flavor, grill a halved lemon cut side down during the last few minutes until golden brown.

Enjoy your flavorful Grilled Tahini Chicken!

How to Serve Grilled Tahini Chicken

Grilled Tahini Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and garnishes. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

With Fresh Salad

• Greek Salad: Combine cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, olives, and feta cheese for a refreshing crunch.
• Tabbouleh: A parsley-based salad with bulgur, tomatoes, and lemon juice adds brightness and freshness.

Over Rice or Grain

• Fluffy Rice: Serve the chicken over the lemon-dill rice made in the recipe for a satisfying base.
• Quinoa: This protein-packed grain can be a great alternative to rice, adding nutty flavors.

With Dips and Sauces

• Tzatziki Sauce: This yogurt-based dip offers a cool contrast to the warm chicken.
• Hummus: Spread some hummus on your plate for added creaminess and flavor.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken for a vibrant green touch.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve with grilled lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

How to Perfect Grilled Tahini Chicken

To achieve juicy and flavorful Grilled Tahini Chicken, follow these essential tips that will elevate your grilling game.

• Marinate Well: Letting the chicken soak in the tahini marinade for at least 1 hour (up to 4 hours) intensifies flavor.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is fully heated before adding the chicken; this helps achieve perfect grill marks and prevents sticking.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Check for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure your chicken is cooked through without drying out.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes after grilling helps retain juices.
• Experiment with Marinades: Feel free to tweak the marinade ingredients by adding spices or herbs according to your taste preference.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Tahini Chicken

Pairing Grilled Tahini Chicken with complementary side dishes enhances its Mediterranean flavors. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal veggies in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting until tender.
2. Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous mixed with vegetables and herbs makes for a light yet filling side.
3. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread offers a delightful texture contrast while soaking up juices from the chicken.
4. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon complements the dish’s flavors perfectly.
5. Mediterranean Potato Salad: Potatoes tossed in olive oil, herbs, and lemon create a satisfying side option.
6. Pita Bread: Warm pita can be used to scoop up both chicken and dips, making every bite enjoyable.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Tahini Chicken, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can affect the final result. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:

• Skipping the marinade time: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour enhances flavor and tenderness. Don’t rush this step!
• Not preheating the grill: Failing to preheat your grill can lead to uneven cooking. Always ensure it’s hot enough for a good sear.
• Using cold chicken directly: Cooking chicken straight from the fridge can result in a longer cooking time and uneven heat distribution. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling.
• Forgetting to check doneness: Relying solely on cooking time can be misleading. Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Neglecting rice seasoning: The rice should be flavorful too! Adding herbs and lemon zest while cooking elevates the entire meal.
• Overcooking the chicken: This leads to dry meat. Monitor closely and remove it from the grill as soon as it reaches the proper temperature.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Grilled Tahini Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Tahini Chicken

• Freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Grilled Tahini Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, checking often until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water, covered, for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Grilled Tahini Chicken:

Can I use other types of chicken?

Yes! You can use boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs based on your preference.

What if I don’t have tahini?

You can substitute tahini with sunflower seed butter or almond butter for a different nutty flavor.

How do I customize my grilled chicken?

Feel free to add spices or herbs you enjoy, such as oregano or coriander, for extra flavor!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Marinate your chicken earlier in the day or even overnight for more intense flavors.

What should I serve with Grilled Tahini Chicken?

This dish pairs well with salads, steamed vegetables, or pita bread for a complete Mediterranean meal.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Tahini Chicken is not only packed with flavor but also versatile enough for any dinner table. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a family meal, this recipe shines with its rich Mediterranean flavors. Feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs or sides for an even more delightful experience!