Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Served With a Creamy Green Sauce
This dish combines juicy, spiced Mediterranean-style grilled chicken with a refreshing creamy green dill yogurt sauce. The chicken is marinated in olive oil, lemon, garlic, and warm spices for depth, while the sauce balances everything with brightness and creaminess. Perfect for a healthy dinner, weekend barbecue, or meal prep, this pairing is both satisfying and versatile.
Time:
Prep: 15 minutes (plus 30 minutes to 2 hours marinating)
Cook: 15–20 minutes
Total: 45–60 minutes (including marinating)
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
For the Grilled Chicken
1 ½ lbs (700 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
3 garlic cloves, minced or grated
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp cumin
¼ tsp allspice
⅛ tsp ground nutmeg
⅛ tsp ground green cardamom (optional, for aroma)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp Greek yogurt (optional, for tenderizing)
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
For the Creamy Green Sauce (Dill Yogurt Sauce)
1 cup Greek yogurt
2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced or grated
1 tbsp lemon or lime juice
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Pinch cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, oregano, cumin, allspice, nutmeg, cardamom, salt, pepper, and Greek yogurt (if using).
Add the chicken and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for best flavor).
Make the Creamy Green Sauce
In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, dill, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using).
Mix until smooth, then refrigerate until ready to serve.
Grill the Chicken
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Remove chicken from marinade and grill for 6–8 minutes per side, or until cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).
Rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Serve
Plate grilled chicken with a generous spoonful of creamy green sauce on top or on the side.
Garnish with extra fresh parsley or dill.
Serve with rice, couscous, flatbread, or roasted vegetables for a complete Mediterranean meal.
Tips & Variations
Use Chicken Thighs for Juiciness: While breasts work well, boneless thighs stay extra juicy and soak up the marinade beautifully.
Add Yogurt to the Marinade: The Greek yogurt not only tenderizes the chicken but also gives it a slight tang that balances the spices.
Make It Spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne, chili flakes, or harissa paste to the marinade if you like heat.
Extra Herbs: Fresh parsley, cilantro, or mint can be mixed into the marinade or the sauce for a fresh lift.
Grill Alternatives: No grill? Pan-sear the chicken in a cast-iron skillet or roast it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes.
Sauce Twist: Swap dill with cilantro or basil to create different versions of the creamy green sauce.
Meal Prep Friendly: Store grilled chicken and sauce separately in the fridge for up to 4 days. Perfect for healthy lunch bowls.
Serving Ideas: Pair with Mediterranean sides like tabbouleh, roasted vegetables, or a fresh cucumber-tomato salad. It also works well wrapped in pita bread.
Marinate Overnight: For deeper flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight in the fridge.
Q&A
Q: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use bone-in thighs or drumsticks, but they’ll take longer to cook. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Q: What if I don’t have a grill?
A: A grill pan, cast-iron skillet, or oven roasting works just as well. You’ll still get great flavor from the marinade.
Q: How can I make the sauce thicker?
A: Strain the Greek yogurt with cheesecloth before mixing, or add a spoonful of sour cream for a richer texture.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes, substitute coconut yogurt or a dairy-free alternative for both the marinade and the sauce.
Q: How far in advance can I prepare the sauce?
A: The green sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead. Store it in the fridge in an airtight container.
Nutrition
(per serving, based on chicken breast and sauce, approx.)
Calories: 320
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 420mg
Values may vary depending on portion size, cut of chicken, and marinade adjustments.
Conclusion
This Mediterranean grilled chicken with creamy green sauce is a perfect balance of smoky, zesty, and refreshing flavors. The spiced, juicy chicken pairs beautifully with the herby yogurt sauce, making it a light yet satisfying dish. It’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even summer gatherings. Serve it with roasted vegetables, couscous, or fresh salad, and you’ve got a complete, protein-rich Mediterranean-inspired meal.