If you’re searching for a dish that transforms a humble dinner or festive gathering into a Mediterranean celebration, the Greek Chicken & Olive Mezze Board with Garlic Yogurt is your answer. This colorful, flavor-packed mezze board bursts with juicy grilled chicken, creamy yogurt sauce, briny olives, and crisp fresh veggies—all beautifully laid out for sharing. It’s one of those recipes you fall in love with at first bite, then realize it brings people together in the easiest, happiest way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients can shine when used thoughtfully, and each part of this mezze board plays a role in creating a dynamic and delicious spread. Let’s break down why you don’t want to skip a single element.
- Chicken breasts: Lean and quick-cooking, they soak up all the bright, herby marinade flavors beautifully.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps the marinade cling to the chicken while also giving the yogurt dip a luscious feel.
- Lemon juice: Brings brightness and tang to both the chicken marinade and the garlic yogurt, balancing the richness.
- Garlic (minced & grated): Adds a punch of aromatic flavor that’s unmistakable in both the chicken and the creamy yogurt sauce.
- Dried oregano: Infuses the chicken with classic Greek herb notes—don’t skip it for that signature taste.
- Paprika: Provides gentle warmth and a hint of color to the chicken marinade.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for enhancing all the flavors; season generously but mindfully.
- Greek yogurt: Thick and tangy, this is the backbone of that dreamy garlic yogurt sauce.
- Mixed olives (Kalamata, green, or Castelvetrano): Bring a briny pop; mix varieties for extra interest.
- Cherry tomatoes: Their juicy burst and sweetness offer a fresh, colorful contrast.
- Cucumber (sliced): Cool, crisp, and the perfect foil for all the rich and salty components.
- Feta cheese (cubed or crumbled): Salty and creamy, this is a mezze essential—choose good-quality feta for best results.
- Warm pita bread or pita chips: The glorious vehicle for scooping up every last bite; don’t forget to warm them up.
- Fresh parsley or dill: Adds greenery and a final hit of freshness, tying the whole board together visually and in taste.
How to Make Greek Chicken & Olive Mezze Board with Garlic Yogurt
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by tossing your chicken breasts with olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Make sure the chicken is well coated in the marinade—this is where all that Greek flavor magic begins! Let it marinate for at least 20 to 30 minutes (longer if you have time), so the flavors can really soak in and tenderize the meat.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat up a grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until it’s beautifully golden and cooked through. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing—this helps keep all those delicious juices inside, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Yogurt
Mix together the Greek yogurt, finely grated garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Stir until silky-smooth and creamy. This sauce is irresistibly rich and tangy, a perfect dip to anchor your board. If you like extra zing, add a touch more lemon; for even more garlic punch, go ahead and grate in a bit more!
Step 4: Assemble the Mezze Board
On a large board or platter, arrange your sliced chicken in the center. Place the olives, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and cubed feta around the chicken, letting their colors mingle. Tuck in piles of warm pita bread or crispy pita chips, and add a bowl of that luscious garlic yogurt right in the middle. It should look inviting and abundant—no need for perfect symmetry!
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish your Greek Chicken & Olive Mezze Board with Garlic Yogurt by sprinkling fresh parsley or dill across the top. A final drizzle of olive oil over the veggies and yogurt makes everything shine. Serve the board warm and fresh, and let everyone dive in for a bite of everything.
How to Serve Greek Chicken & Olive Mezze Board with Garlic Yogurt
Garnishes
Freshness is king when it comes to finishing your mezze board. Scatter plenty of chopped parsley or dill right before serving. A few extra lemon wedges can be nestled alongside the board for guests who want a citrusy boost, and a light dusting of paprika over the yogurt adds a dash of color and flavor.
Side Dishes
Although this board is hearty enough to stand on its own, pairing it with other small plates can enhance your spread. Consider serving with rice pilaf, dolmas, or even a simple tabbouleh salad. For something comforting, a side of roasted potatoes or lentil soup can make this meal feel even more abundant.
Creative Ways to Present
Make your Greek Chicken & Olive Mezze Board with Garlic Yogurt your own! Use a wooden board for rustic appeal, a large serving platter for easier cleanup, or individual plates for a more formal feel. You can cut your pita into triangles, create mini skewers with chicken, or offer everything in separate bowls for a build-your-own experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover chicken, veggies, and garlic yogurt can be stored in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping components apart helps maintain their individual textures and flavors, so your next mezze moment is just as fresh as the first.
Freezing
The cooked chicken can be frozen in a freezer-safe bag for up to two months; allow it to cool completely before freezing. The yogurt sauce and fresh veggies are best enjoyed fresh, so stick to making those right before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
Reheating
When you’re ready for round two, simply reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Serve with freshly sliced veggies and a fresh batch of garlic yogurt for the best experience—nothing beats that just-made taste!
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs stay super juicy and work beautifully in this recipe – just adjust the cooking time, as they may need a few more minutes to cook through depending on thickness.
What’s the best way to warm pita bread?
The fastest way is to wrap your pita in foil and pop it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. You can also warm it on a skillet for a couple of minutes per side to get a lovely toastiness.
Is this Greek Chicken & Olive Mezze Board with Garlic Yogurt gluten-free?
Yes—simply serve with gluten-free pita or omit the bread entirely, focusing on all the delicious meats, cheeses, sauces, and veggies on your board.
Can I make the garlic yogurt dip ahead of time?
Definitely! The garlic yogurt dip actually tastes even better when made a few hours ahead; just give it a good stir before serving and keep it chilled in the fridge.
What are some vegetarian alternatives for the chicken?
For a vegetarian version, try grilled halloumi cheese, roasted chickpeas, or marinated tofu. Any of these pair perfectly with the other classic Mediterranean flavors on the mezze board.
Final Thoughts
Gather your friends, pour a little wine, and let the Greek Chicken & Olive Mezze Board with Garlic Yogurt be the star of your next meal. With its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and shareable style, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite for every occasion—or just a cozy night at home. Give it a try, and prepare to be hooked!
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Greek Chicken & Olive Mezze Board with Garlic Yogurt Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 3–4 servings 1x
- Diet: Mediterranean
Description
Indulge in the flavors of the Mediterranean with this Greek Chicken & Olive Mezze Board featuring tender marinated chicken, tangy olives, fresh veggies, creamy garlic yogurt, and more. Perfect for a casual gathering or a delightful meal at home.
Ingredients
Greek Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Garlic Yogurt:
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 small garlic clove, finely grated
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp olive oil
- Salt, to taste
Mezze Board:
- 1/2 cup mixed olives (Kalamata, green, or Castelvetrano)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, cubed or crumbled
- Warm pita bread or pita chips
- Fresh parsley or dill, for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat chicken and marinate 20–30 minutes.
- Cook chicken: Grill or pan-sear chicken over medium-high heat for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Rest briefly, then slice.
- Prepare garlic yogurt: Stir Greek yogurt with garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble mezze board: Arrange sliced chicken, olives, tomatoes, cucumber, feta, and pita on a large board or platter.
- Serve: Add a bowl of garlic yogurt in the center, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve warm and fresh.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling, Pan-Searing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
