Name: Grilled Mediterranean Chicken and Vegetables with Herby Tzatziki Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs; ½ cup whole milk plain Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil; Zest and juice from 1 lemon; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon finely chopped dill; 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 cup whole milk plain Greek yogurt; 1 Persian cucumber, shredded; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill and parsley; 1 clove garlic, grated; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; ½ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste; 1 red onion, peeled and cut into ½” thick rounds or quarters; 1 zucchini, ends removed and cut vertically in ¼-inch slices; 1 red bell pepper, halved or cut into ½” thick strips; 1 yellow bell pepper, halved or cut into ½” thick strips; 1 orange bell pepper, halved or cut into ½” thick strips; 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Roasted chickpeas, rice, or pearl couscous; Warm torn pita; Pickled red onion; Extra fresh chopped dill and parsley

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 20 reviews

If you’ve ever wished for a vibrant, wholesome meal that feels like a sunny Mediterranean escape on your plate, then this Grilled Mediterranean Chicken and Vegetables with Herby Tzatziki Sauce Recipe will be your new favorite. Juicy, marinated chicken thighs meet a colorful array of perfectly charred veggies, all elevated by a bright, cooling tzatziki bursting with fresh herbs. This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a deliciously balanced dinner that’s packed with protein and vibrant flavors. Whether you’re grilling for family, friends, or simply treating yourself, this recipe promises a joyful cooking experience and a satisfying meal that feels truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with raw chicken dipped in a thick creamy orange sauce with visible herbs and specks of black pepper on top, garnished with small green dill flakes. The sauce covers five pieces of chicken, creating a textured and rich look. Around the bowl are whole garlic cloves, sprigs of dill, and a whole lemon placed on a white marbled textured surface. The scene is bright and fresh with a soft pink background showing slight texture, giving a homely kitchen feel photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Grilled Mediterranean Chicken and Vegetables with Herby Tzatziki Sauce Recipe plays an essential part in building layers of flavor and texture. Each one is simple but vital, perfect for recreating the bright, fresh tastes of the Mediterranean right at home.

Boneless skinless chicken thighs (2 pounds): These tender cuts stay juicy and soak up the marinade beautifully for maximum flavor.
Whole milk plain Greek yogurt (½ cup + 1 cup): Adds creaminess to the marinade and makes the herby tzatziki luxuriously smooth and tangy.
Extra-virgin olive oil (3 tablespoons): Used for marinating and grilling, it brings a fruity richness and helps achieve those perfect grill marks.
Lemon zest and juice (from 1 lemon + 1 tablespoon): Brightens the chicken and tzatziki with lively citrus notes.
Garlic (3 cloves): Adds a savory punch – minced in the marinade and grated in the tzatziki for varied texture.
Fresh dill and parsley: Herbaceous, fragrant, and essential for that authentic Mediterranean flavor profile.
Spices (paprika, dried oregano, kosher salt, black pepper): Each adds depth, warmth, and balance to the chicken and veggies.
Vegetables (red onion, zucchini, red/yellow/orange bell peppers): A colorful medley offering crunch, sweetness, and smokiness from the grill.
Persian cucumber: Grated for the tzatziki’s refreshing crispness without too much watery texture.
Roasted chickpeas, rice or pearl couscous for serving: These sides add heartiness and another layer of texture.
Warm torn pita and pickled red onion: Perfect accouterments that bring softness and tang to each bite.

How to Make Grilled Mediterranean Chicken and Vegetables with Herby Tzatziki Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor

Start by whisking together Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon zest and juice, minced garlic, dill, kosher salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried oregano in a large bowl. Toss in the chicken thighs to coat every inch with this fragrant marinade. Pop it in the fridge for at least 20 minutes, or longer if your schedule allows. This step not only tenderizes the chicken but infuses it with those signature bright and savory Mediterranean flavors.

Step 2: Prepare the Herby Tzatziki Sauce

While the chicken marinates, mix together Greek yogurt, shredded Persian cucumber, finely chopped fresh dill and parsley, grated garlic, lemon juice, and salt in a medium bowl. The tzatziki is your cool, herbaceous counterpoint to the smoky grilled chicken and veggies. Let it chill in the fridge to allow those flavors to meld — it can even be made a day ahead for super convenience.

Step 3: Get Your Grill Ready and Preheat

Fire up your grill to a steady medium-high heat, around 400 degrees Fahrenheit. A clean grate is crucial for those perfect sear marks and to keep flavors pure. Scrape off any leftover bits from previous grilling adventures to prevent sticking and flare-ups.

Step 4: Toss and Season the Vegetables

Drizzle the red onion, zucchini slices, and bell peppers with extra virgin olive oil, and sprinkle with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Using clean hands is the best way to evenly coat veggies without bruising, ensuring they cook evenly and get that alluring grilled caramelization.

Step 5: Grill the Chicken and Vegetables

Place the marinated chicken on one side of the grill and the prepared vegetables on the other, keeping at least an inch apart for even heat circulation. Close the lid and cook for about 6 to 8 minutes per side, flipping halfway, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. The vegetables will develop beautiful grill marks and tender-crisp texture in roughly the same amount of time. Once cooked, transfer everything to a platter and let the chicken rest a few minutes to keep it juicy and tender.

Step 6: Warm the Pita Bread

After turning off the grill, immediately place the pita rounds on the grill grates. Close the lid and warm for about 2 minutes per side until soft, warm, and slightly toasted. This step makes all the difference for a perfect handheld accompaniment.

Step 7: Chop and Assemble

Roughly chop the grilled vegetables to create uniform bite-sized pieces. Slice or roughly chop the rested chicken thighs to mingle effortlessly with the veggies and sauce. Arrange everything with a generous dollop of the herby tzatziki, roasted chickpeas or your choice of grains, pickled red onion, and a flourish of fresh chopped dill and parsley before digging in.

How to Serve Grilled Mediterranean Chicken and Vegetables with Herby Tzatziki Sauce Recipe

A bowl filled with layers starting from a creamy white yogurt sauce at the base speckled with chopped herbs, topped with chunks of grilled golden-brown chicken pieces with charred marks, roasted chickpeas scattered around, bright yellow grilled bell peppers, charred red tomato pieces, and vibrant green zucchini slices. There are also pieces of roasted purple onion, some fresh dill sprigs on top, and a small pile of thin, bright pink pickled onions near the center. On the edge of the bowl, pieces of torn pita bread rest against the side. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Finishing touches lift any dish, and here fresh herbs are key. A sprinkle of chopped dill and parsley over the composite platter adds vibrant color, fresh aroma, and that unmistakable Mediterranean flair. Pickled red onions lend a tangy kick and a pop of pink, creating a perfect balance against the mellow grilled flavors. Don’t skip these—they make each bite more exciting!

Side Dishes

This dish is wonderfully versatile. Serve it with warm pita for scooping or alongside fluffy pearl couscous or herbed rice to soak up every bit of tzatziki and marinade juices. Roasted chickpeas add crunch and an extra dose of protein, making it a truly satisfying and balanced meal that you can customize to your liking.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive gathering, lay the chicken and veggies out on a large wooden board and drizzle with tzatziki sauce, letting guests assemble their own plates with pita and sides. Alternatively, stuff the chicken, veggies, and a generous spoonful of herby tzatziki into warmed pita pockets for a handheld treat that’s perfect for casual meals or picnics. The bright colors make this dish ideal for food photography or sharing on social media, showcasing Mediterranean beauty and flavor together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, keep them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken and vegetables will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days. Store the tzatziki sauce separately to prevent the chicken and vegetables from getting soggy.

Freezing

While the grilled vegetables and chicken can be frozen, the best texture is retained when freezing the chicken alone in a tight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing the tzatziki as the yogurt sauce tends to separate after thawing. Instead, prepare fresh tzatziki when you’re ready to serve again.

Reheating

For reheating, gently warm the chicken and vegetables in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through. Add fresh tzatziki after reheating to keep its creamy, fresh texture intact. This simple step will make your leftovers feel just as delightful as the first serving.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work fine, but thighs tend to stay juicier and have more flavor when grilled. If using breasts, watch the cooking time carefully to avoid drying out.

Is the herby tzatziki sauce necessary?

Yes! The tzatziki sauce adds a fresh, cool contrast to the smoky grilled chicken and vegetables, making every bite more balanced and delicious. It’s the perfect finishing touch that brings the whole dish together.

Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Definitely. You can achieve similar deliciousness by roasting the chicken and vegetables in the oven or cooking them on a stovetop grill pan. Just keep an eye on cooking times and look for that lovely char.

How long do I need to marinate the chicken?

At least 20 minutes is great for flavor infusion, but if you have more time, marinating up to a few hours or overnight will deepen the taste and tenderness even more.

What can I use instead of Persian cucumber for the tzatziki?

If Persian cucumbers aren’t available, regular cucumbers work well too. Just shred them and squeeze out excess moisture to keep your tzatziki thick and creamy.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about creating a dish that bursts with color, flavor, and wholesome goodness all at once. This Grilled Mediterranean Chicken and Vegetables with Herby Tzatziki Sauce Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients come together to make magic happen on your plate. Next time you want a quick yet impressive meal, whip this up and watch everyone dig in with big smiles. I can’t wait for you to experience the joy of this vibrant Mediterranean feast!