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Plate of spicy Mediterranean chicken garnished with herbs and served with vegetables

Spicy Mediterranean Chicken

A smoky and citrus-bright chicken dish that transforms bland weeknight dinners into a flavor-packed experience.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Grilling, Main Course
Cuisine: Grilled, Mediterranean
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs Juicy and tender.
  • 3 cloves garlic Minced.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For marinade.
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice Freshly squeezed.
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper Adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper Adjust heat level.
For the Cucumber Salad
  • 2 cups Persian cucumbers Chopped.
  • 1/4 cup red onion Finely minced.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt For dressing.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill Chopped.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Marinate the chicken by mixing garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cumin, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a bowl. Add chicken thighs and coat them well. Allow marination for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best results.
Grilling
  1. Preheat the grill until heated.
  2. Grill the marinated chicken thighs until edges darken slightly but the meat remains tender. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Cucumber Salad
  1. In a separate bowl, combine chopped Persian cucumbers, finely minced red onion, Greek yogurt, fresh dill, and mix well.
Serving
  1. Serve the grilled chicken with the cucumber salad on the side.

Notes

If using chicken breast instead of thighs, remember to finish under high heat to avoid drying out. Allow flavors to meld by letting the chicken marinate longer.