If you're on the hunt for a dish that's bursting with flavor yet simple to prepare, look no further than Grilled Chicken with Tahini Marinade. This recipe combines the creamy richness of tahini with zesty lemon and aromatic spices to create a marinade that elevates humble chicken thighs to a whole new level of deliciousness.
The ingredients
- Tahini: This sesame paste lends a nutty, creamy flavor to the marinade and helps to tenderize the chicken.
- Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest provide a bright, citrusy zing that balances the richness of the tahini.
- Spices: Ground coriander, dried oregano, and garlic powder add depth and complexity to the marinade.
For the ingredients quantities go to the recipe card below
Steps-by-step with images
In a mixing bowl, combine ¼ cup tahini, 2 tablespoons water, 2 tablespoons olive oil, and the juice of 1 lemon along with its zest.
Add 1 teaspoon each of ground coriander, dried oregano, and garlic powder to the bowl.
Season the marinade with salt and pepper to taste.
Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and well combined. Set aside.
Pour the prepared tahini marinade over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated.
Cover the dish or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
Place the chicken thighs on the preheated grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and have nice grill marks.
Use tongs to carefully flip the chicken halfway through the cooking time.
Check for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. It should register 165°F (75°C) when fully cooked.
Once cooked, transfer the grilled chicken to a serving platter and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips
- Marinate for Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, for maximum flavor.
- Even Cooking: To ensure even cooking, pound the chicken thighs to an even thickness before marinating.
- Grill Temperature: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat for perfectly grilled chicken with a nice char.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before grilling.
Grilled Tahini Chicken
Ingredients
- ¼ cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon plus zest
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
Instructions
- Pour the prepared tahini marinade over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated.
- Cover the dish or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are evenly hot and covered with ash.
- Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
- Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Place the chicken thighs on the preheated grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and have nice grill marks.
- Use tongs to carefully flip the chicken halfway through the cooking time.
- Check for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. It should register 165°F (75°C) when fully cooked.
- Once cooked, transfer the grilled chicken to a serving platter and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish the grilled chicken with additional lemon zest and chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
- Serve hot alongside your favorite sides, such as rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad.
Notes
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or thyme for a different flavor profile.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Try this marinade with grilled vegetables or tofu for a meat-free alternative.
Nutrition
FAQ
While thighs are juicier, chicken breasts will work just as well. Adjust the cooking time accordingly as chicken breasts may cook faster.
Yes, you can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through
This versatile marinade pairs well with a variety of proteins including beef, lamb, or even fish.
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