Grilled Tahini Chicken

Grilled Tahini Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines the smoky richness of grilled chicken thighs with a creamy, tangy tahini sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or for impressing guests at your next gathering, this recipe takes only 15 minutes to prepare. With minimal prep and cook time, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ready to serve in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of rich, savory flavors and tender grilled chicken, this Grilled Tahini Chicken recipe is for you. The tahini sauce is not only delicious but also adds a smooth, nutty creaminess that perfectly complements the smoky grilled chicken thighs. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can prepare a dish that’s both easy and impressive. Whether you serve it warm, at room temperature, or cold, this recipe is versatile and works well with a variety of side dishes. Plus, you can even make it ahead of time, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup well-stirred tahini

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 2 teaspoons lemon zest

• 2 cloves garlic, grated

• 1 tablespoon za’atar

• 1/2 tablespoon smoked paprika

• 3-4 tablespoons water

• 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the grill (or broiler — see notes for broiler instructions) to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates on the grill.

2. In a bowl, combine all ingredients, except water and chicken thighs. Whisk well, then add in water one tablespoon at a time until the sauce reaches a pourable consistency.

3. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Spoon some of the tahini sauce over both sides of the chicken, reserving half of the sauce for later.

4. Grill the chicken for 3-4 minutes on one side, then flip. Baste the flipped side with some of the remaining sauce. Grill the flipped side for another 4-5 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.

5. Serve the chicken warm, at room temperature, or cold, with an additional drizzle of the tahini sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken thighs with tofu or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly dish. Grill the tofu or mushrooms just like the chicken.

• Spice it Up: If you like heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce to the tahini sauce for an extra kick.

• Add Greens: Serve the chicken on a bed of leafy greens like spinach or arugula for a fresh and vibrant meal.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: The chicken and tahini sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Be sure to keep the sauce separate from the chicken if you plan to store them together.

• Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. You can also reheat it on the grill for a few minutes, basting with a little extra sauce to keep it moist.

FAQs

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add some cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or drizzle hot sauce over the grilled chicken for a spicy kick.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts will work as well, but they might cook a bit faster, so adjust the grilling time accordingly.

Can I broil the chicken instead of grilling it?

Yes, you can broil the chicken by placing it on a wire rack set over a foil-lined baking sheet and broiling for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Can I make the tahini sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the tahini sauce can be made up to 4 days ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Just stir it before use as it may thicken over time.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Can I use store-bought tahini for the sauce?

Yes, store-bought tahini works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure it’s well-stirred before using.

What sides go well with this dish?

This grilled tahini chicken pairs well with quinoa, couscous, or a light salad. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables or a simple tomato and cucumber salad.

Can I freeze the grilled chicken?

While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the grilled chicken for up to 2 months. Reheat it in the oven or microwave when ready to serve.

Can I use other spices instead of za’atar?

Yes, if you don’t have za’atar, you can substitute it with a mix of thyme, oregano, and sesame seeds.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it contains no wheat-based ingredients.

Conclusion

Grilled Tahini Chicken is a quick, flavorful meal that brings a unique twist to traditional grilled chicken. With a creamy tahini sauce and aromatic spices, it’s a dish that’s both easy to prepare and full of bold flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Serve it warm, at room temperature, or cold for a delicious, versatile meal that everyone will love.