Jamie Oliver’s Lemon Tzatziki Chicken is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines tender, lemon-marinated chicken with a creamy and tangy tzatziki sauce. Perfect for a light dinner or a summer gathering, this recipe is simple to prepare yet packed with vibrant Mediterranean flavors.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
- Light and refreshing: The lemon and tzatziki sauce provide a zesty, cooling combination.
- Healthy option: High in protein and made with wholesome ingredients.
- Versatile: Serve as a main course or pair with wraps, salads, or rice.
- Quick to prepare: Ideal for busy weeknights.
- Crowd-pleaser: A hit at family meals or BBQs.
What Is Jamie Oliver Lemon Tzatziki Chicken?
Jamie Oliver’s Lemon Tzatziki Chicken is a Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring marinated chicken, grilled or pan-fried to perfection, served with a creamy tzatziki sauce made with yogurt, cucumber, and garlic.
Jamie Oliver Lemon Tzatziki Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 4 chicken breasts or thighs, boneless and skinless
- 2 lemons (zest and juice)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cucumber, grated and squeezed to remove excess water
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh dill or mint, chopped, for garnish
Optional Garnishes and Sides:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
- Pita bread, rice, or salad
Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver Lemon Tzatziki Chicken
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, mix the lemon zest, juice, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and coat well. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce
- In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Heat a grill pan, skillet, or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F).
Step 4: Rest the Chicken
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes to retain its juices.
Step 5: Serve
- Slice the chicken and serve it with the chilled tzatziki sauce on the side. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Pair with pita bread, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Other Recipes
- Jamie Oliver Bolognese with Lentils
- Jamie Oliver Microwave Chilli Con Carne
- Jamie Oliver Banana Bread and Butter Pudding
What to Serve with Jamie Oliver Lemon Tzatziki Chicken
- Pita bread: Ideal for wrapping the chicken with tzatziki.
- Rice pilaf: A classic Mediterranean side dish.
- Greek salad: Refreshing and complements the flavors perfectly.
- Grilled vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant work wonderfully.
Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver Lemon Tzatziki Chicken
- Don’t skip the marination: It enhances the flavor and keeps the chicken tender.
- Use Greek yogurt: Thick yogurt works best for the tzatziki sauce.
- Remove excess water from cucumber: This prevents the sauce from becoming watery.
- Cook chicken evenly: Pound the chicken to an even thickness if needed.
- Garnish generously: Fresh herbs and lemon wedges brighten the dish.
Variations of Jamie Oliver Lemon Tzatziki Chicken
- Spicy version: Add chili flakes to the marinade for extra heat.
- Herby twist: Add fresh rosemary or thyme to the marinade.
- Vegetarian option: Use tofu or halloumi as a substitute for chicken.
- Dairy-free tzatziki: Use coconut yogurt instead of Greek yogurt.
- Wrap it up: Serve in a tortilla or flatbread for a delicious wrap.
How to Store Leftovers Jamie Oliver Lemon Tzatziki Chicken?
- Refrigerate properly: Store chicken and tzatziki separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Freeze the chicken: Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How to Reheat Jamie Oliver Lemon Tzatziki Chicken?
- On the stove: Heat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warm.
- In the microwave: Reheat chicken in 30-second intervals until heated through. Avoid reheating the tzatziki sauce; serve it chilled.
Nutrition Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
FAQs
Can I make tzatziki sauce ahead of time?
Yes, tzatziki sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh.
What can I use instead of chicken in this recipe?
You can substitute chicken with tofu, halloumi, or even salmon for a delicious alternative while keeping the same marinade and tzatziki.
How do I prevent chicken from drying out while cooking?
To keep the chicken moist, marinate it thoroughly and avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling it?
Yes, you can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Lemon Tzatziki Chicken is a refreshing and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With its zesty marinade and creamy sauce, this recipe brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table. Try it today and enjoy a healthy, satisfying meal!
Print
Jamie Oliver Lemon Tzatziki Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (including marination time)
- Cook Time: 15
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling or pan-frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
Jamie Oliver’s Lemon Tzatziki Chicken is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines tender, lemon-marinated chicken with a creamy and tangy tzatziki sauce. Perfect for a light dinner or a summer gathering, this recipe is simple to prepare yet packed with vibrant Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
-
- 4 chicken breasts or thighs, boneless and skinless
-
- 2 lemons (zest and juice)
-
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
-
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
-
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
-
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
-
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
-
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
-
- 1 cucumber, grated and squeezed to remove excess water
-
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
-
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
-
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
-
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
-
- Fresh dill or mint, chopped, for garnish
Optional Garnishes and Sides:
-
- Fresh parsley, chopped
-
- Lemon wedges
-
- Pita bread, rice, or salad
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
-
- In a bowl, mix the lemon zest, juice, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and coat well. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce
-
- In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
-
- Heat a grill pan, skillet, or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F).
Step 4: Rest the Chicken
-
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes to retain its juices.
Step 5: Serve
-
- Slice the chicken and serve it with the chilled tzatziki sauce on the side. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Pair with pita bread, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.