Jamie Oliver’s Lemon Tzatziki Chicken Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Lemon Tzatziki Chicken is a refreshing and vibrant dish that brings together tender, juicy chicken with the creamy zest of tzatziki, balanced by a zesty lemon kick. Perfect for a light yet flavorful meal, it’s easy to prepare and guarantees a deliciously tangy experience.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Lemon Tzatziki Chicken

Jamie Oliver’s Lemon Tzatziki Chicken is a delightful recipe that blends the best of Mediterranean flavors. The dish features chicken marinated in a zesty lemon and herb marinade, which imparts a tangy, aromatic flavor.

The chicken is paired with tzatziki, a classic Greek yogurt-based sauce made with cucumbers, garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs. This combo of flavors creates a perfect balance of freshness, creaminess, and savory goodness, ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.

Jamie Oliver’s Lemon Tzatziki Chicken Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Lemon Tzatziki Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

For The Chicken Marinade

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if you prefer a juicier cut)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

For The Tzatziki Sauce

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat works best for creaminess)
• 1 small cucumber, grated (squeeze out excess water)
• 1-2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill or mint, finely chopped (or a mix of both)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Optional Garnishes

• Fresh dill or mint
• Lemon wedges
• Crumbled feta cheese (for an added Mediterranean flair)

Equipment Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Lemon Tzatziki Chicken, you will need a few basic kitchen tools:

• A mixing bowl for marinating the chicken
• A small bowl for preparing the tzatziki sauce
• A whisk for blending the sauce ingredients
• A grill pan, barbecue, or skillet for cooking the chicken
• A grater for the cucumber
• A sharp knife and chopping board for the garlic and herbs
• A spoon or spatula to serve the tzatziki sauce

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Lemon Tzatziki Chicken?

Making Jamie Oliver’s Lemon Tzatziki Chicken is an easy, step-by-step process that promises maximum flavor with minimal effort. Here’s how to prepare this mouthwatering dish:

1. Marinate The Chicken

   • In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
   • Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, making sure each piece is well coated.
   • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) to allow the flavors to meld.

2. Prepare The Tzatziki

   • In a separate bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (squeeze out any excess liquid), minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh herbs (dill or mint).
   • Season the tzatziki with salt and pepper to taste, and mix well.
   • Set the sauce aside in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

3. Cook The Chicken

   • Preheat a grill pan, barbecue, or skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Once the pan is hot, add the marinated chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is golden brown and juicy.
   • Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.

4. Serve

   • Serve the grilled chicken breasts on a plate, topped with a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce.
   • Garnish with additional fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon, and crumbled feta cheese if desired.

Expert Tips

• Chicken Tenderness: For extra juicy and tender chicken, consider using bone-in chicken thighs instead of boneless breasts. The bone helps lock in moisture.
• Marination Time: If you’re in a rush, 30 minutes will do the job, but the chicken will develop deeper flavors if marinated overnight.
• Homemade Yogurt: If you have time, making your own tzatziki from scratch with fresh, creamy yogurt will give the sauce a rich, authentic flavor.
• Serving Ideas: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of couscous, quinoa, or a fresh Greek salad. For a low-carb option, you could serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a light cucumber and tomato salad.
• Grill It: For extra smokiness and depth of flavor, try grilling the chicken over an open flame instead of pan-searing.

Jamie Oliver’s Lemon Tzatziki Chicken is a flavorful, vibrant dish that perfectly balances the tanginess of lemon, the creaminess of tzatziki, and the savory goodness of grilled chicken. This recipe offers a healthy, fresh alternative to heavier meals and is guaranteed to impress both your taste buds and your guests.

Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy the explosion of Mediterranean flavors in every bite!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Lemon Tzatziki Chicken

Jamie Oliver’s Lemon Tzatziki Chicken is a fresh, light, and flavorful dish that can easily be adapted to suit various tastes or dietary preferences. Here are a few easy recipe variations to elevate or change the flavor profile:

1. Spicy Tzatziki Chicken: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some finely chopped fresh chili or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the tzatziki. This will give the dish a spicy kick while maintaining the fresh, cooling essence of the cucumber and yogurt. You could also add a touch of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor.
2. Herb-Infused Chicken: For those who love herbs, infuse the chicken marinade with fresh herbs such as thyme, oregano, or rosemary. The Mediterranean influence of these herbs will complement the tangy tzatziki and lemon well. Consider marinating the chicken in a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and chopped herbs for 30 minutes before grilling or roasting.
3. Grilled Vegetables with Tzatziki: Add grilled vegetables to your meal for extra flavor and texture. Vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers are perfect choices. They can be grilled alongside the chicken and topped with a generous dollop of tzatziki, providing a well-rounded and nutritious meal.
4. Greek Style Lemon Tzatziki Chicken: If you’re craving more traditional Greek flavors, mix some feta cheese into the tzatziki sauce. Crumbled feta will add a salty, creamy element to the dish that pairs beautifully with the lemony chicken. Serve with a side of warm pita bread to scoop up the tzatziki.
5. Lemon and Dill Chicken: Another twist to consider is adding dill to the tzatziki sauce or marinating the chicken with dill. Dill complements both chicken and tzatziki, enhancing the fresh and zesty elements of the dish.
6. Vegan Lemon Tzatziki ‘Chicken’: For a plant-based option, substitute the chicken with marinated tofu or tempeh. Tofu can be marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and your favorite herbs to mimic the flavor profile of the chicken. The vegan tzatziki made with dairy-free yogurt will still provide the signature tangy taste.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Leftovers from a dish like Lemon Tzatziki Chicken can make for an excellent meal the next day, but proper storage is key to maintaining its flavor and freshness. Follow these best practices to keep your leftovers in top condition:

1. Store the Chicken Separately from the Tzatziki: The tzatziki sauce, made with yogurt and cucumber, tends to become watery and lose its fresh flavor when stored for a long time. To avoid this, store the tzatziki separately in an airtight container and only top your chicken with it when ready to serve. This will help preserve the texture and flavor of both components.
2. Cool the Chicken Quickly: If you have leftover chicken, allow it to cool down to room temperature before storing. However, make sure it doesn’t sit out for more than two hours to avoid any bacterial growth. Once cooled, store the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate it immediately.
3. Use Within 2-3 Days: Leftover cooked chicken should be eaten within 2-3 days to ensure it stays safe to consume and retains its flavor. The tzatziki sauce can typically last up to 4-5 days in the refrigerator.
4. Reheat the Chicken Properly: When reheating the chicken, it’s best to do so gently to avoid drying it out. You can reheat it in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F/150°C) or on the stove over medium-low heat with a splash of water or chicken broth to retain moisture.
5. Freezing for Long-Term Storage: While freezing the tzatziki is not ideal, you can freeze the chicken for longer storage. Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or store it in an airtight freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What Goes Well With Lemon Tzatziki Chicken?

Lemon Tzatziki Chicken has a fresh, bright flavor profile, and to make the meal even more enjoyable, pairing it with the right side dishes is key. Here are some ideas on what goes well with this dish:

1. Crispy Roasted Potatoes: Roasted potatoes with a crispy exterior and tender inside are a perfect side for Lemon Tzatziki Chicken. The simplicity of roasted potatoes complements the fresh, zesty flavor of the chicken, and you can season them with garlic, rosemary, and a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor.
2. Greek Salad: A classic Greek salad made with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, olives, and feta is a wonderful pairing. The freshness of the salad enhances the citrusy and creamy notes of the chicken and tzatziki. It’s light, refreshing, and makes for an ideal side.
3. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf, seasoned with herbs like parsley or dill, can serve as a neutral base for the lemony chicken. The grains soak up the juices from the chicken and tzatziki, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.
4. Grilled Vegetables: If you love grilling, consider pairing the chicken with vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, or mushrooms. Grilled vegetables bring smoky depth to the meal, which contrasts nicely with the freshness of the tzatziki.
5. Pita or Flatbread: Warm pita or flatbreads are perfect for scooping up the tzatziki and complement the chicken. You can also use them to wrap pieces of the grilled chicken for a simple, handheld meal.
6. Lemon Couscous: For a light and flavorful side, lemon-infused couscous is an excellent choice. It’s quick to prepare and its delicate texture pairs beautifully with the tangy tzatziki chicken.
7. Pickled Vegetables: A side of tangy pickled vegetables, such as pickled red onions or cucumbers, can balance the richness of the chicken and tzatziki with a zesty crunch, elevating the entire meal.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s Lemon Tzatziki Chicken is a refreshing, vibrant dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. The combination of juicy grilled chicken with the tangy, creamy tzatziki creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

By experimenting with different recipe variations, such as adding spices, herbs, or vegan alternatives, you can make this dish even more personalized to your tastes. Additionally, knowing the best practices for storing leftovers will ensure that this meal can be enjoyed for days to come.

When paired with sides like roasted potatoes, Greek salad, or grilled vegetables, this dish transforms into a wholesome, balanced meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or for meal prep, Lemon Tzatziki Chicken offers a delicious and versatile option that can easily be adapted to suit any occasion.

FAQs

What Are The Key Ingredients For Jamie Oliver’s Lemon Tzatziki Chicken Recipe?

The key ingredients for Jamie Oliver’s lemon tzatziki chicken recipe include chicken breasts, lemon zest and juice, Greek yogurt, garlic, cucumber, olive oil, fresh herbs like mint or parsley, salt, and pepper.

How Do I Prepare The Tzatziki Sauce For Jamie Oliver’s Lemon Tzatziki Chicken?

To prepare the tzatziki sauce, grate a cucumber and squeeze out excess water. Mix the cucumber with Greek yogurt, crushed garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add fresh herbs such as mint or parsley for extra flavor.

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead Of Chicken Breasts In This Recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of breasts in Jamie Oliver’s lemon tzatziki chicken recipe. Thighs tend to be juicier and have more flavor, making them a great alternative.

What Sides Would Pair Well With Jamie Oliver’s Lemon Tzatziki Chicken?

Jamie Oliver’s lemon tzatziki chicken pairs wonderfully with sides like roasted vegetables, a fresh Greek salad, couscous, or pita bread. You can also serve it with a simple rice pilaf or a light quinoa salad.

Can I Make The Tzatziki Sauce Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the tzatziki sauce ahead of time. In fact, letting it sit for a few hours allows the flavors to meld together, making it even more delicious. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

What Is The Best Way To Cook The Chicken For This Recipe?

For the best results, the chicken should be grilled or pan-fried. Season the chicken with lemon zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper, then cook over medium-high heat until the chicken is golden on the outside and fully cooked on the inside.

Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?

Yes, you can make this recipe spicier by adding chili flakes or chopped fresh chili to the tzatziki sauce or seasoning the chicken with cayenne pepper or smoked paprika.

How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-free?

To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the Greek yogurt in the tzatziki sauce with a dairy-free yogurt alternative such as coconut or almond-based yogurt. Ensure the chicken marinade doesn’t contain dairy as well.

How Long Should I Marinate The Chicken?

For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. However, you can marinate it for up to 2 hours if you have the time, which will allow the lemon and herbs to infuse the meat even more.

Is Jamie Oliver’s Lemon Tzatziki Chicken A Healthy Dish?

Yes, Jamie Oliver’s lemon tzatziki chicken is a healthy dish. It is packed with lean protein from the chicken, fresh vegetables in the tzatziki, and healthy fats from olive oil. The dish is low in carbs and can be made even healthier by serving it with fresh salads or roasted vegetables.