Grilled Tahini Chicken

You’ll love the Mediterranean flavors of this Grilled Tahini Chicken! This dish combines the nutty richness of tahini with juicy chicken, making it perfect for family dinners, barbecues, or meal prep. The marinade infuses the chicken with robust flavors that will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The tahini adds a unique nutty taste while keeping the chicken moist.
• Quick Prep Time: With only 15 minutes of active preparation, you can have a gourmet meal ready in no time.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it with rice, salad, or wrap it in pita for a tasty lunch option.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious.
• Grill-Ready: Perfect for outdoor cooking and summer gatherings, bringing a smoky flavor to your plate.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this flavorful recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides that signature charred flavor while cooking the chicken evenly.
• Glass measuring cup: Ideal for mixing marinades without absorbing flavors.
• Rice cooker or pot: Ensures perfectly cooked rice every time, complementing the dish beautifully.

Ingredients

You’ll need the following ingredients to make 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

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

Step 2: Preheat Your Grill

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or about 400-425° F.
2. Clean and oil the grill grates before adding the chicken.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

1. Cook the rice according to package instructions while adding in dill and lemon zest before bringing it to a boil.
2. Once cooked, turn off heat and add lemon juice. Cover again and let steam for 10 minutes.
3. Fluff rice with a fork and taste for seasoning.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

1. Place marinated chicken onto preheated grill grates.
2. Cook for 4-6 minutes on one side before flipping over.
3. Continue cooking until internal temperature reaches 165° F.
4. Remove from grill and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving alongside rice.

Now you’re ready to enjoy an unforgettable meal featuring Grilled Tahini Chicken!

How to Serve Grilled Tahini Chicken

Grilled Tahini Chicken is not only delicious but also a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

With Fresh Salads

• Mediterranean Salad – Combine cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and olives for a refreshing side.
• Quinoa Salad – Mix cooked quinoa with herbs and lemon juice for a healthy grain option.

On a Bed of Rice

• Lemon Dill Rice – Serve the chicken over the flavored rice you prepared, enhancing its Mediterranean flavor.
• Cilantro Lime Rice – For a zesty twist, pair with cilantro lime rice for an added burst of freshness.

In Wraps or Pitas

• Grilled Chicken Wrap – Slice the chicken and wrap it in a tortilla with lettuce, tomatoes, and tahini dressing.
• Pita Pockets – Stuff grilled chicken into pita pockets with hummus and veggies for a quick meal.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Seasonal Roasted Veggies – Pair with seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers, roasted until tender.
• Garlic Green Beans – Sauté green beans with garlic for a simple yet flavorful side.

How to Perfect Grilled Tahini Chicken

Achieving the perfect Grilled Tahini Chicken is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your chicken turns out great every time.

• Marinate Wisely – Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour; this ensures maximum flavor absorption.
• Preheat Your Grill – Make sure your grill is hot before adding the chicken; this helps achieve those beautiful grill marks.
• Use a Meat Thermometer – Check the internal temperature of the chicken; it should reach 165° F for safe consumption.
• Let It Rest – After grilling, let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing; this keeps it juicy and tender.
• Grill with Care – Avoid flipping the chicken too often; let it cook undisturbed for better sear marks and flavor.
• Experiment with Marinades – Feel free to add different spices or herbs to the marinade for varied flavors each time you make it.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Tahini Chicken

Pairing your Grilled Tahini Chicken with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Greek Tzatziki Sauce – A yogurt-based sauce made with cucumber and garlic that adds creaminess and freshness.
2. Hummus Platter – Serve with an assortment of veggies and pita chips for dipping; it’s perfect for sharing.
3. Tabbouleh Salad – A refreshing salad made from parsley, bulgur wheat, tomatoes, and lemon juice that brightens up your plate.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes seasoned and roasted until crispy provide a slight sweetness that pairs well.
5. Grilled Asparagus – Lightly seasoned asparagus spears grilled until tender add a crunchy texture to your meal.
6. Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb alternative that’s light yet flavorful when sautéed with garlic and herbs.
7. Chickpea Salad – Combine canned chickpeas with diced veggies and olive oil for an easy yet protein-packed side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Grilled Tahini Chicken to new heights. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Over-marinating the chicken: Leaving the chicken in the marinade for too long can lead to a mushy texture. Aim for 1-4 hours for optimal flavor without compromising texture.

• Skipping the preheat step: Grilling without preheating can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your grill to medium-high heat before placing the chicken on it.

• Not checking internal temperature: Cooking chicken to the right temperature is crucial for safety and juiciness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F.

• Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after grilling can cause juices to escape, making it dry. Allow the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

• Cooking rice improperly: Failing to follow rice cooking instructions can lead to sticky or undercooked rice. Always measure water accurately and let it steam properly after cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Grilled Tahini Chicken in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Grilled Tahini Chicken

• For longer storage, freeze cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag.
• It will maintain quality for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Tahini Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat, add a splash of broth, and warm the chicken gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common queries about Grilled Tahini Chicken:

How do I enhance the flavor of Grilled Tahini Chicken?

Adding spices like garlic powder or cayenne pepper can elevate the flavors even more. Consider experimenting with additional herbs as well!

Can I use different cuts of chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use boneless skinless thighs or breasts, or even a combination of both for varied flavor and texture.

What should I serve with Grilled Tahini Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or fresh salads. Roasted vegetables also make an excellent side option!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! 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 offers delightful Mediterranean flavors that make any meal special. Its versatility allows for numerous customization options such as varying spices or sides. This dish is not only easy but also sure to impress at your next gathering—give it a try!