Tahini Chicken
If you’re looking to elevate your weeknight dinner with a dish that’s as delicious as it is simple, look no further than this Tahini Chicken recipe. With its creamy, nutty tahini sauce and perfectly tender chicken thighs, this dish brings a burst of flavor to your table that will leave your taste buds dancing. The unique combination of tahini, Greek yogurt, and spices creates a mouthwatering marinade that infuses the chicken with rich flavor while keeping it juicy. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds!
What Sets This Recipe Apart
This Tahini Chicken stands out for several reasons. First, the use of tahini—made from ground sesame seeds—adds a rich, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken. The addition of Greek yogurt not only enhances the creaminess of the sauce but also helps to tenderize the chicken, making it incredibly juicy. Plus, the combination of spices like cumin or za’atar gives it an aromatic kick that takes the dish to the next level. Lastly, the option to roast tomatoes and garlic alongside the chicken adds a wonderful sweetness and depth to the meal.
Your Shopping Guide
Before you dive into this culinary adventure, here’s a comprehensive shopping list to ensure you have everything you need:
- Chicken thighs – 6 skinless and boneless (730g)
- Greek yogurt – 1 cup full-fat (160g)
- Tahini – 3 tablespoons (48g)
- Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon
- Garlic – 1 clove, minced
- Ground cumin or za’atar – 1 teaspoon
- Flaky sea salt – 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper – to taste
- Tomatoes on the vine – 8 oz (230g), optional
- Garlic bulb – 1, halved
- Lemon – 1, halved
- Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
Gear Checklist
Before you start cooking, gather these essential tools:
- Mixing bowl – For marinating the chicken.
- Baking sheet – To roast the chicken and vegetables.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For precise ingredient measurements.
- Chef’s knife – For chopping garlic and halving the lemon.
- Cooking tongs – To flip the chicken easily.
Tahini Chicken, Made Easy
Now, let’s get to the fun part—preparing your Tahini Chicken! Follow these simple steps for a deliciously satisfying meal.
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin or za’atar, flaky sea salt, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and well blended.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade. Ensure each piece is generously coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken to a resealable bag for at least 30 minutes. For best results, marinate in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
While the chicken marinates, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure a beautifully roasted chicken with a crispy exterior.
Step 4: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. If you’re using tomatoes, arrange the tomatoes and halved garlic bulb on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the chicken on the baking sheet alongside the tomatoes and garlic. Squeeze the halved lemon over everything for added flavor. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve the Tahini Chicken with roasted tomatoes and garlic on the side. You can also drizzle additional tahini sauce over the top for an extra burst of flavor!
Smart Substitutions
If you’re missing an ingredient or looking to customize your dish, here are some smart substitutions:
- Greek yogurt: Use dairy-free yogurt for a vegan option.
- Tahini: Swap with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free alternative.
- Ground cumin: Use smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.
- Tomatoes: Zucchini or bell peppers can be used for roasting instead.
What Could Go Wrong
While this dish is straightforward, here are a few pitfalls to avoid:
- Overcooking: Keep an eye on the chicken to prevent it from drying out. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
- Insufficient marination: Allow enough time for the chicken to marinate; this is key to flavor and tenderness.
- Skipping the lemon: Don’t skip squeezing lemon over the chicken and vegetables; it brightens the overall flavor.
Shelf Life & Storage
If you happen to have leftovers, here’s how to store them properly:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of water to keep the chicken moist.
- For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Handy Q&A
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used, but be aware that they may require a shorter cooking time. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to avoid dryness.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
What can I serve with Tahini Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it in wraps or pita bread for a fun twist!
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This Tahini Chicken makes for excellent meal prep. Just store individual portions in containers for quick, reheatable meals throughout the week.
The Takeaway
Tahini Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s an experience filled with flavor, comfort, and satisfaction. The creamy tahini sauce combined with tender chicken thighs creates a dish that is both hearty and healthy. Don’t be surprised if this becomes a regular on your dinner rotation! The delightful flavors, ease of preparation, and versatility of this dish are sure to impress everyone around your dining table. So grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
Tahini Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin or za'atar, flaky sea salt, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and well blended.
- Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade. Ensure each piece is generously coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken to a resealable bag for at least 30 minutes. For best results, marinate in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight.
- While the chicken marinates, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure a beautifully roasted chicken with a crispy exterior.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. If you're using tomatoes, arrange the tomatoes and halved garlic bulb on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the chicken on the baking sheet alongside the tomatoes and garlic. Squeeze the halved lemon over everything for added flavor. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve the Tahini Chicken with roasted tomatoes and garlic on the side. You can also drizzle additional tahini sauce over the top for an extra burst of flavor!
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently to maintain moisture; add a splash of water if necessary.
- For longer storage, freeze cooked chicken in portions for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
