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Spicy Mediterranean Chicken

Spicy Mediterranean Chicken: A Quick Flavor Explosion

This Spicy Mediterranean Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Marinating Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 lb Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs Substitute with chicken breasts for a leaner option.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced, fresh is recommended.
  • 3 tbsp Olive Oil Essential for marinating and grilling.
  • 2 tbsp Lemon Juice Always use freshly squeezed.
  • 1 tsp Lemon Zest Enhances the lemon flavor.
  • 1 tbsp Smoked Paprika Regular paprika works for a milder taste.
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano Feel free to use fresh oregano.
  • 1 tsp Cumin Adds earthy depth.
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper Adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper Adjust to your spice preference.
For the Cucumber Salad
  • 2 pcs Persian Cucumbers Regular cucumbers can be used if unavailable.
  • 1/4 cup Red Onion Substitute with green onions for a milder flavor.
  • 1 cup Plain Greek Yogurt Use sour cream or dairy-free yogurt if preferred.
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Dill Mint or parsley can be swapped.

Equipment

  • grill
  • Mixing Bowl
  • meat thermometer

Method
 

Marinating and Grilling
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and zest. Add the boneless skinless chicken thighs, ensuring they are fully coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.
  2. About 15 minutes before grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for around 400°F. Make sure it's clean and lightly oiled.
  3. Once your grill is ready, grill the marinated chicken thighs for 5-6 minutes on each side. Ensure they're cooked through, checking for an internal temperature of 165°F.
Cucumber Salad Preparation
  1. Wash and chop the Persian cucumbers and red onion into bite-sized pieces. In a separate bowl, mix plain Greek yogurt, a squeeze of lemon juice, salt, and fresh dill to create a creamy dressing. Combine just before serving.
Serving
  1. Once the chicken has rested for a few minutes, slice it into strips. Plate the chicken alongside the creamy cucumber salad.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Marinate overnight for the best flavor. Monitor grilling to avoid drying out. Fresh ingredients matter for optimal taste.

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