Greek Chicken Mezze Platter with Balsamic Drizzle

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🥙 Introduction:

A Greek Mezze Platter is a celebration of bold flavors and fresh ingredients. This version features juicy, herby grilled chicken, creamy hummus, tangy tzatziki, and a colorful assortment of Mediterranean accompaniments—finished off with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze drizzle. It’s perfect for sharing, and each bite is a flavor-packed trip to the Aegean coast.

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🧾 Ingredients:

🐔 For the Greek Chicken:

• 2 large chicken breasts (or 4 thighs, boneless & skinless)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt & black pepper, to taste

🧄 For the Tzatziki:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cucumber, grated & squeezed of excess water
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh dill (or 1 tsp dried)
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• Salt to taste

🧆 For the Platter:

• 1 cup hummus (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• Feta cheese, cubed or crumbled
• Warm pita bread or pita chips
• Fresh mint or parsley for garnish

🍇 Balsamic Drizzle:

• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey (optional, for added sweetness)

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👩‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Marinate and Cook the Chicken:

1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours).
3. Grill or pan-sear chicken over medium-high heat for 5–6 minutes per side, or until cooked through and golden.
4. Let it rest, then slice thinly.

2. Make the Tzatziki:

1. Combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, dill, lemon juice, and salt in a bowl.
2. Stir well and chill until ready to use.

3. Make the Balsamic Drizzle:

1. In a small saucepan, simmer balsamic vinegar (and honey, if using) over low heat.
2. Reduce by half, about 8–10 minutes, until syrupy. Cool before using.

4. Assemble the Platter:

1. On a large serving board or platter, start with a base of hummus and tzatziki.
2. Add sliced grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onions, olives, and feta.
3. Add warm pita slices or chips around the edges.
4. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the chicken and veggies.
5. Garnish with fresh herbs.

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📝 Serving Tips:

• Serve warm or at room temperature.
• Pair with a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
• Add dolmas or roasted red peppers for extra flair.

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🔄 Variations:

• Substitute chicken with grilled lamb, shrimp, or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
• Use store-bought tzatziki and hummus to save time.
• Add roasted potatoes or tabbouleh to make it more filling.

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