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Serving Suggestions
hassan shah

MEDITERRANEAN DIET FLAVORS GUIDE

This vibrant dish captures the essence of the Eastern Mediterranean with tangy sumac, earthy za'atar, and fresh herbs. Perfectly grilled chicken rests on a bed of fluffy, golden turmeric quinoa, drizzled with a bright lemon-tahini sauce. It’s wholesome, heart-healthy, and packed with bold, aromatic flavors that transport you to a bustling souk.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Middle Eastern
Calories: 425

Method
 

  1. 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
  2. 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  3. 2 tablespoons za'atar spice blend
  4. 1 teaspoon ground sumac
  5. 3 cloves garlic, minced
  6. 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
  7. Salt and black pepper to taste
  8. 1 cup dry quinoa
  9. 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  10. 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  11. 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  12. 1/4 cup tahini (sesame paste)
  13. 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
  14. 2 tablespoons water (to thin sauce)
  15. 1 small cucumber, diced (for garnish)
  16. 1/4 cup pomegranate arils (optional, for color)
  17. In a large bowl, whisk olive oil, za'atar, sumac, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
  18. Add chicken breasts to the bowl and coat thoroughly; marinate for at least 10 minutes (or up to 2 hours).
  19. While chicken marinates, rinse quinoa under cold water using a fine mesh strainer.
  20. In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth and turmeric to a boil; stir in the quinoa.
  21. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until liquid is absorbed; fluff with a fork.
  22. Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat; lightly oil the grates.
  23. Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  24. Remove chicken to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes; slice against the grain.
  25. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and water until smooth and pourable.
  26. Divide the turmeric quinoa among four plates; top with sliced grilled chicken.
  27. Drizzle generously with the lemon-tahini sauce and sprinkle with fresh parsley, cucumber, and pomegranate arils.
  28. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

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  • For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with 1-inch thick halloumi cheese slices or grilled eggplant.
  • Za’atar can be found in most spice aisles; if unavailable, mix equal parts thyme, oregano, sesame seeds, and sumac.
  • To save time, marinate the chicken the night before for deeper flavor penetration.
  • Leftover quinoa stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of water.
  • This dish pairs beautifully with a side of warm pita bread and a simple Israeli salad.