Greek Chicken with Tzatziki and Couscous Recipe

If you’re craving something vibrant, fresh, and absolutely bursting with Mediterranean flair, you have to try this incredible Greek Chicken with Tzatziki and Couscous. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate—juicy, herb-infused chicken paired beautifully with creamy, tangy tzatziki and fluffy, lemon-kissed couscous. Whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight dinner or impressing guests with something a little special, this combo never fails to deliver flavor and satisfaction. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll become your go-to comfort meal with a dash of sunshine in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, fresh ingredients are at the heart of this recipe, each one playing a key role in building layers of flavor and bringing that authentic Greek vibe to your kitchen. From zesty lemon juice to fragrant herbs, every component makes this dish sing, while also keeping it delightfully easy to prepare.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The perfect canvas for soaking up all those bright, herbal marinades.
• 3 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps keep the chicken tender when cooked.
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Brings a fresh, tangy brightness that lifts the entire dish.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that classic Greek flavor punch.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds rustic, earthy notes true to Mediterranean cuisine.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Complements oregano with a subtle hint of woodsy aroma.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasoning to enhance all the other flavors.
• 1 cup Greek yogurt: The base for creamy, dreamy tzatziki sauce.
• 1 small cucumber, grated: Adds crunch and freshness; squeezing out excess water is key.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (for tzatziki): Gives a sharp, pungent kick in the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for tzatziki): Brings silkiness to the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for tzatziki): Cuts through the richness with citrus zing.
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped: Or 1 teaspoon dried—its bright, herbal flavor defines traditional tzatziki.
• 1 cup couscous: A light, fluffy grain that soaks up all those lovely juices.
• 1 ½ cups vegetable or chicken broth: Cooking couscous in broth adds savory depth.
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Subtle citrus notes that enhance the couscous.
• Fresh parsley or mint, chopped (optional): Great for garnish to add a pop of color and freshness.

How to Make Greek Chicken with Tzatziki and Couscous

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This marinade is where the magic begins—each ingredient infuses the chicken with that unmistakable Mediterranean charm. Add your chicken breasts, turning them to coat well in the mixture, then cover and pop them in the fridge. Even just 30 minutes lets the flavors sink in beautifully, but if you can wait up to two hours, you’ll get an even more deliciously tender and fragrant result.

Step 2: Prepare the Tzatziki

While your chicken is soaking up all the goodness, mix up the tzatziki sauce. Combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (make sure to squeeze out any excess water so your sauce isn’t watery), minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, dill, and salt in a bowl. This sauce is creamy yet refreshing, with each bite delivering cool cucumber and herbaceous dill balanced perfectly by bright lemon. Pop it in the fridge to chill—this step really helps meld the flavors while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Step 3: Cook the Couscous

Bring your chosen broth to a boil in a saucepan—it’s the flavorful foundation that turns plain couscous into something savory and moreish. Stir in olive oil, lemon zest, couscous itself, salt, and pepper, then cover and remove from heat. Let it rest for about five minutes to fluff up, and then fluff it gently with a fork. You’ll end up with light, fluffy couscous that’s bright and fragrant, perfect for soaking up the juices from your chicken and tzatziki.

Step 4: Grill or Bake the Chicken

Next, cook your marinated chicken either on a medium-high grill or in a 400°F (200°C) oven. Grilling adds that wonderful smoky char and an irresistible aroma, while baking is an easy, hands-off approach. Grill for about six to eight minutes per side, or bake in a skillet or dish for 20 to 25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through (aim for an internal temperature of 165°F/75°C). The golden exterior with those fresh herb flavors will have you wanting to dive right in!

Step 5: Plate and Serve

Slice the chicken and serve it alongside a generous helping of the lemon-zested couscous. Drizzle some of your chilled tzatziki over the chicken or offer it as a dip on the side. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or mint if you have it—this isn’t just for looks, the herbs bring another layer of bright, fresh flavor to each bite. Get ready to enjoy an effortless meal that feels surprisingly indulgent!

How to Serve Greek Chicken with Tzatziki and Couscous

Garnishes

A handful of freshly chopped parsley or mint adds a lovely burst of green that brightens everything up on your plate. A little extra lemon zest or thinly sliced lemon wedges work beautifully for those who love a citrus boost. Don’t underestimate how these simple touches can elevate your presentation and flavor experience.

Side Dishes

This dish stands beautifully on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, try pairing it with a crisp Greek salad filled with ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese. Roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers bring warmth and texture, while warm pita bread is perfect for mopping up any extra tzatziki and juices.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the Greek Chicken with Tzatziki and Couscous in warm pita pockets as a wrap, perfect for casual lunches or picnics. Or arrange the chicken on a bed of couscous in a shallow bowl and drizzle tzatziki in artistic swirls. You can even turn it into a colorful rice bowl style meal by adding olives, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta on top for a fiesta of Mediterranean goodness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Greek Chicken with Tzatziki and Couscous keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the tzatziki separate in an airtight container to preserve its freshness and creaminess. The chicken and couscous can be stored together or separately depending on your preference.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken and couscous, but it’s best to leave the tzatziki out of the freezer as its texture may change. Freeze the chicken and couscous in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best thawing experience.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the couscous moist. Avoid heating the tzatziki; instead, bring it out of the fridge a bit before serving to let it come to the perfect dipping temperature.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully for Greek Chicken with Tzatziki and Couscous. They tend to be juicier and even more flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can swap chicken for grilled halloumi or marinated tofu. Both will pair beautifully with the zesty couscous and cooling tzatziki sauce for a satisfying vegetarian meal.

Is it necessary to remove the cucumber’s water for tzatziki?

Yes, squeezing out excess water from the grated cucumber prevents the tzatziki from becoming watery, ensuring your sauce stays thick, creamy, and perfect for dipping or drizzling.

Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?

Definitely! You can marinate the chicken and prepare tzatziki up to 24 hours ahead, which makes for easy meal prep. The couscous should be cooked fresh for the best fluffy texture.

What can I use if I don’t have fresh dill?

Dried dill is a fine substitute—just use about one-third the amount since it’s more concentrated. If you don’t have dill at all, fresh mint or parsley can add a fresh herbal twist to the tzatziki sauce.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the flavors in Greek Chicken with Tzatziki and Couscous—it’s like a little Mediterranean getaway on your plate. The balance of juicy, herb-marinated chicken with creamy, tangy tzatziki and bright, lemony couscous makes every bite a joy. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe guarantees smiles and happy taste buds. Go ahead, try it out. Your dinner table—and your palate—will thank you.

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