Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Plate with Garlic Herb Yogurt & Tomato Salad

Name: Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Plate
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (Go for organic if possible.); 2 tablespoons Olive oil (Extra virgin for best flavor.); 1 tablespoon Lemon juice (Fresh-squeezed is key.); to taste Salt; to taste Black pepper; 1 cup Greek yogurt (The thicker, the better.); 2 cloves Minced garlic (Freshly minced makes a difference.); 1/4 cup Chopped fresh herbs (parsley, mint, dill) (Use a mix you love.); to taste Salt; to taste Black pepper; 1 tablespoon Olive oil (Drizzle for flavor.); 1/2 teaspoon Crushed red pepper flakes (Optional, for a bit of heat.); 1 tablespoon Lemon juice (Adds brightness.); 2 cups Cherry tomatoes (Halved; a medley for best flavor.); 1/4 cup Chopped fresh parsley (For flavor and garnish.); 2 tablespoons Olive oil; to taste Salt; to taste Black pepper; 2 cups Cooked basmati or jasmine rice (Basmati preferred for fragrance.); 4 leaves Fresh lettuce leaves (Romaine or butter) (For crunch.); 1 cup Cucumber slices (Use Persian cucumbers for best texture.)

Mediterranean Memories: My Love Affair with Grilled Chicken Plates

If you’ve ever found yourself craving a vibrant, sunshine-filled meal that feels like an escape to the Mediterranean coastline, then this Mediterranean grilled chicken plate will be your new go-to dinner. The very first time I created this recipe, it was a warm summer evening. The scent of grilled chicken mingling with fresh herbs and garlic reminded me of my travels along the coast of Greece—windows open, laughter spilling into the air, every bite full of freshness and flavor.

Preparing this Mediterranean-inspired plate always takes me back to those carefree meals eaten outdoors, under the gentle glow of string lights. There’s just something about a Mediterranean grilled chicken plate that feels so bright, healthy, and completely satisfying. I can’t wait for you to experience a little Mediterranean magic at your own table!

Why You’ll Adore This Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Plate

Let me gush a little about this dish—because I truly believe it’s a weeknight dinner everyone needs up their sleeve.

Effortlessly Healthy: Between grilled chicken, crisp veggies, and that dreamy garlic herb yogurt, every component feels light but filling. You’ll feel good about what’s on your plate (and it’s naturally gluten-free!).
Full of Fresh Flavor: From juicy cherry tomato salad to zesty herbs and creamy yogurt sauce, every bite bursts with Mediterranean goodness.
Simple, No-Fuss Prep: Nothing fancy here—just real, honest ingredients, minimal chopping, and a grill or grill pan is all you need.
Perfect for Sharing: This Mediterranean grilled chicken plate is gorgeous served family-style. Everyone can build their own plate and drizzle on as much garlic yogurt as they like!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Plate

Here’s exactly what you’ll need to bring this sunny, flavor-packed dinner into your kitchen:

Chicken breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for quick grilling. Go for organic if you can—it really makes a difference.
Greek yogurt: The thicker, the better. It’s the base of that herby, tangy sauce (look for full-fat for extra creaminess).
Cooked basmati or jasmine rice: Both are lovely, but basmati’s subtle fragrance is my favorite.
Fresh lettuce leaves: Romaine or butter lettuce offer just the right crunch.
Cucumber slices: I love using Persian cucumbers for their thin skin and crisp bite.
Cherry tomatoes: Go for a medley if you can. Sliced in half and tossed with olive oil, they’re absolute flavor bombs.
Fresh parsley: Both for the salad and as garnish—buy a big bunch!
Olive oil: Extra virgin brings the best flavor.
Minced garlic: Freshly minced makes all the difference in the herby yogurt sauce.
Chopped fresh herbs (parsley, mint, dill): Use whatever mix you love, but don’t skip the mint if you want that classic Mediterranean flavor.
Lemon juice: Brightens the yogurt and chicken; fresh-squeezed is key.
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Gives your plate a little kick, if that’s your thing.
Salt & black pepper: Essential, of course.

Step-by-Step Guide: Making the Perfect Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Plate

Let’s bring it all together—promise, it’s easier than it looks! Here’s how:

Grill the Chicken:
Season chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Grill over medium-high heat (on an outdoor grill or grill pan) until beautifully charred and cooked through—about 5-7 minutes per side. Rest for a few minutes, then slice. (Trust me, letting it rest keeps every bite juicy!)
Toss the Tomato Salad:
While the chicken’s grilling, halve your cherry tomatoes and toss them with chopped parsley, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Let it sit for the flavors to meld—it’s so easy but so good.
Prep Veggies & Rice:
Wash and dry your lettuce leaves. Slice cucumbers thin (they’ll add a delightful freshness). Cook your rice (I usually do this the night before or in the morning to save time).
Whip Up Garlic Herb Yogurt:
In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt with minced garlic, chopped herbs, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Add red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat. I sometimes double this for extra dipping!
Assemble Your Plate:
Layer rice on the bottom, then lettuce, cucumber, and those glistening tomatoes. Arrange sliced grilled chicken on top. Finish with a generous dollop of herby yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

And there you have it—a Mediterranean grilled chicken plate worthy of your favorite bistro, right at home.

My Secret Tips and Tricks for Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Plate Success

Marinate If You Can: Even 20 minutes in lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs makes chicken incredibly flavorful (and keyword alert: creates juicy grilled chicken!).
Don’t Overcook the Chicken: The key to juicy grilled chicken slices is to pull them off the heat just as the juices run clear—use a meat thermometer if you have one.
Herb Mixture Matters: Try a blend of parsley, mint, and dill for the most authentic herby Greek yogurt sauce.
Rice Hack: For fluffier rice, let it steam with the lid on for 10 minutes after cooking. (No soggy grains here!)
Build-Your-Own Plate: Let your family pile their own plates with rice, lettuce, cucumber, and grilled chicken. It’s fun, interactive, and perfect for picky eaters.

Creative Variations and Ingredient Swaps

Don’t hesitate to get creative! Here are some easy ways to tweak your Mediterranean chicken plate:

Swap Chicken for Shrimp or Chickpeas: Shrimp grills up fast and soaks up the marinade perfectly. Or make it vegetarian by using roasted chickpeas or falafel.
Add Feta or Olives: Crumbled feta or Kalamata olives bring even more Mediterranean flavor (and color!).
Grain Swap: No rice? Use quinoa, bulgur, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Vary the Herbs: No dill or mint? Try basil or cilantro for a different vibe.
Roasted Veggies: In cool weather, roasted peppers or zucchini are great alongside your grilled chicken.

How to Serve and Store Your Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Plate

Here’s how I make the most of this recipe—for both weeknights and leftovers:

Serve It Family Style: Place all the components on the table and let everyone build their own plate. It’s colorful, interactive, and perfect for gatherings (hello, Mediterranean grilled chicken party!).
Store Leftovers Separately: Keep chicken, rice, veggies, and yogurt sauce in separate containers in the fridge. Everything will stay fresh for up to 4 days.
Lunch Box Heaven: Pack it up in meal-prep containers with a side of yogurt sauce. It’s incredible cold or at room temp!

FAQs: Your Top Questions About Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Plate Answered

Can I make the Mediterranean grilled chicken plate ahead of time?
Absolutely! Grill the chicken and chop the veggies the night before, then assemble when you’re ready. The yogurt sauce actually gets better after a day in the fridge.

What’s the best way to get juicy grilled chicken breast?
Don’t overcook it! Aim for 165°F internal temp, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing, and always slice against the grain for maximum tenderness.

Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Definitely—boneless, skinless thighs are even juicier, and they grill up beautifully for this Mediterranean chicken plate.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free rice. All the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free—yay for simple, healthy Mediterranean food!

Can I use dried herbs in the yogurt sauce?
Fresh herbs are best, but dried will work in a pinch. Use about half the amount, since dried herbs are more potent.

Whether you’re dreaming of Greek islands or just want a dinner that’s as sunny as your day, this Mediterranean grilled chicken plate with garlic herb yogurt and tomato salad is the answer. It’s easy, wholesome, and packed with the flavors I love sharing with friends and family—I hope it brings a little Mediterranean joy to your next meal, too.