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Chicken Tzatziki Recipe - Juicy Chicken with Cool, Creamy Sauce

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • For the Chicken:
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (plus extra wedges for serving)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional for warmth)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for color and depth)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • For the Tzatziki:
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (preferably whole milk)
  • 1/2 large English cucumber, grated (about 3/4 cup)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1–2 cloves garlic, finely grated or minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon mint)
  • 1/4–1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • For Serving (Optional but Recommended):
  • Warm pita or flatbread
  • Cooked rice or quinoa
  • Tomatoes, red onion, cucumbers, olives
  • Fresh parsley or dill for garnish

Method
 

  1. Prep the Chicken: If using breasts, slice them horizontally to create thinner cutlets for even cooking. Pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Make the Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
  3. Marinate: Add chicken to the bowl and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20–30 minutes, or up to 6 hours for deeper flavor.
  4. Prep the Cucumber: Grate the cucumber on the large holes of a box grater. Squeeze out excess water using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels until mostly dry. This keeps the sauce thick.
  5. Make the Tzatziki: In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, dill, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust salt, lemon, and garlic to your preference. Chill until serving.
  6. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or grill over medium-high. Add a light drizzle of oil if needed. Cook chicken 4–6 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  7. Rest the Chicken: Transfer to a plate and rest for 5 minutes to keep it juicy. Slice against the grain.
  8. Serve: Spoon tzatziki over the chicken or serve on the side. Add warm pita, rice, and a simple salad if you like. Finish with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.