Greek Chicken with Tzatziki and Couscous

If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your kitchen, you’ve come to the right place! This Greek Chicken with Tzatziki and Couscous is one of my all-time favorites. Not only is it simple to make, but it also feels special enough for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. The marinated chicken, drizzled with olive oil and brightened by lemon and garlic, pairs beautifully with a cool, creamy tzatziki sauce and fluffy couscous. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

This recipe has become a go-to in my home because it checks all the boxes: it’s healthy, quick to prepare, and sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up something delicious after a busy day, this dish is perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: This dish comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-friendly: Even the little ones will love the delicious flavors of Greek Chicken with Tzatziki and Couscous.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prep the chicken and tzatziki in advance for easy meal assembly throughout the week.
• Fresh ingredients: Enjoy wholesome ingredients that are good for your body and soul.
• Versatile sides: Pair it with your favorite veggies or salads for an even heartier meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started on this Greek Chicken with Tzatziki and Couscous is a breeze! You’ll only need some simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store. Let’s gather everything we need!

For the Chicken Marinade

• Chicken breasts
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Garlic cloves
• Dried oregano
• Salt and pepper

For the Tzatziki Sauce

• Greek yogurt
• Cucumber
• Garlic clove
• Dill (fresh or dried)
• Salt

For the Couscous

• Couscous
• Vegetable broth or water
• Olive oil

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use boneless turkey breast or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Try different grains: Substitute quinoa or farro if you’re looking for something different than couscous.
• Add more veggies: Toss in roasted cherry tomatoes or sautéed bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat!

How to Make Greek Chicken with Tzatziki and Couscous

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by combining olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This marinade not only infuses flavor into the chicken but also helps keep it juicy during cooking. Place your chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or shallow dish, pour over the marinade, seal it up tight (or cover), and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, marinating longer will enhance those lovely flavors even more!

Step 2: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

While your chicken marinates, let’s whip up that refreshing tzatziki sauce! Grate your cucumber (you can peel it if you prefer) and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel. In a bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, dill, and salt. This sauce adds a cool contrast to the warm chicken—perfectly balancing all those vibrant flavors!

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Once marinated, heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook your chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they are browned and cooked through. Using a meat thermometer can help ensure that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Cooking them carefully prevents dryness while ensuring maximum flavor!

Step 4: Prepare the Couscous

While your chicken cooks, bring vegetable broth (or water) to a boil in another pot. Once boiling, add couscous along with a drizzle of olive oil. Remove from heat immediately and let it sit covered for about five minutes so that it absorbs all that liquid. Fluff it up with a fork when done—this step makes all the difference in achieving light and fluffy couscous!

Step 5: Serve It Up!

Now that everything is ready, slice your grilled chicken into strips and serve alongside fluffy couscous topped with tzatziki sauce. You can garnish with fresh herbs or lemon wedges if you’d like! Enjoy every bite of this delightful Greek Chicken with Tzatziki and Couscous—you’ve earned it!

Pro Tips for Making Greek Chicken with Tzatziki and Couscous

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your Greek Chicken with Tzatziki and Couscous to restaurant-level perfection!

• Marinate the chicken longer: For the best flavor, let your chicken marinate for at least an hour, or even overnight. This allows the olive oil, lemon, and garlic to deeply infuse into the meat.
• Use fresh herbs: Adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley to your tzatziki not only enhances its flavor but also brings a burst of color and nutrition to your dish.
• Cook couscous properly: Rinsing the couscous before cooking helps remove excess starch, resulting in fluffier grains. Follow package instructions carefully for perfect results!
• Serve warm: Enjoying your Greek Chicken and couscous warm makes the dish more comforting and enjoyable. Just keep everything covered until you’re ready to serve.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Whether it’s salt, pepper, or lemon juice, don’t hesitate to adjust these seasonings according to your palate. Good cooking is all about personal preference!

How to Serve Greek Chicken with Tzatziki and Couscous

Presenting your dish beautifully can make mealtime even more special! Here are some creative ideas on how to serve this vibrant meal.

Garnishes

• Fresh cucumber slices: These add a crisp texture that complements the creamy tzatziki.
• Chopped olives: A sprinkle of Kalamata olives gives a salty kick that balances the flavors.
• Lemon wedges: Placing lemon wedges alongside allows everyone to squeeze fresh juice over their chicken for an extra zesty touch.

Side Dishes

• Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese (or plant-based alternative) dressed in olive oil makes a perfect light pairing.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers roasted with olive oil and herbs provide a colorful and nutritious addition.
• Hummus with Pita Chips: Creamy hummus served with crispy pita chips is not only delicious but also adds another layer of Mediterranean flair.
• Steamed Green Beans: Simple yet elegant, steamed green beans tossed with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon zest are a lovely side that enhances any meal.

Enjoy making this dish your own! With these serving suggestions, you’ll create a memorable dining experience that everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Greek Chicken with Tzatziki and Couscous recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the chicken and tzatziki sauce in advance, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or even a nutritious lunch option. Here’s how to store it properly.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chicken and tzatziki in airtight containers.
• Keep the couscous separate to maintain its texture.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Place cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze tzatziki separately; however, it’s best enjoyed fresh.
• Couscous can also be frozen, but it may lose some texture upon reheating.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat chicken in the oven or microwave until heated through.
• For couscous, add a splash of water and cover while reheating in the microwave to avoid drying out.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use a different grain instead of couscous for Greek Chicken with Tzatziki and Couscous?

Absolutely! Quinoa, brown rice, or even farro would work well as alternatives to couscous while still complementing the flavors of the dish.

How long does Greek Chicken with Tzatziki and Couscous take to prepare?

This delightful meal can be prepared in about 30-40 minutes, making it a quick dinner option for busy weeknights!

Can I make the tzatziki sauce ahead of time?

Yes! Tzatziki sauce can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge to let the flavors meld together beautifully.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Definitely! The flavors are mild yet flavorful which tends to appeal to younger taste buds. Plus, it’s a healthy dinner choice for the entire family.

Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?

Sure! Grilling will impart a lovely smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the tzatziki and couscous. Just make sure to marinate the chicken beforehand!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Greek Chicken with Tzatziki and Couscous as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for family or just treating yourself, this dish is sure to bring joy to your table. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your results!