Greek Chicken & Olive Mezze Board Recipe

If you’re looking for a vibrant and irresistible way to gather your friends or treat yourself to a feast of bold flavors, the Greek Chicken & Olive Mezze Board is just the ticket. This dish brings together tender, herb-marinated chicken with an array of colorful accompaniments like creamy tzatziki, tangy whipped feta, briny olives, and crisp fresh veggies. Every bite offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes that celebrate the best of Mediterranean cuisine, making it an unforgettable experience that’s as fun to assemble as it is to enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Greek Chicken & Olive Mezze Board lies in its simplicity and vibrant ingredients that each play an essential role. From the juicy, seasoned chicken to the bright fresh vegetables, every component adds a burst of flavor, texture, or color that makes this dish come alive on your table.

• Chicken thighs or breasts (1 lb): Choose skinless for easy cooking and juicy tenderness, perfect for slicing and sharing.
• Olive oil (2 tbsp): The foundation of that authentic Mediterranean flavor and helps the chicken marinade soak in deeply.
• Dried oregano (2 tsp): A classic Greek herb that gives the chicken its unmistakable earthy aroma.
• Garlic powder (1 tsp): Adds savory depth to the marinade without overpowering the dish.
• Smoked paprika (1 tsp): Provides a subtle smoky warmth and beautiful color to the chicken.
• Lemon juice (1 tbsp): Brightens every bite and tenderizes the chicken effortlessly.
• Salt & black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors into harmony.
• Tzatziki (1 cup): Creamy, cool, and tangy cucumber yogurt dip that refreshes the palate with every scoop.
• Hummus (1 cup): A rich and nutty chickpea spread that complements the meats and veggies perfectly.
• Whipped feta (½ cup): Light and fluffy with that trademark salty tang—perfect for dolloping or spreading.
• Mixed Greek olives (1 cup): Kalamata and green olives offer a briny pop that’s utterly addictive.
• Pickled red onions (½ cup): Adds a vinegary tang and crisp texture that cuts through the richness.
• Marinated artichoke hearts (½ cup): Tender and flavorful bites that evoke Mediterranean sunshine.
• Cherry tomatoes (1 cup): Juicy and sweet, they bring vibrant red color and freshness to the board.
• Sliced cucumber (1 cup): Crisp and cooling, balancing out the richness of the spreads and meats.
• Sliced red bell pepper (½ cup): Adds crunch and a mild sweetness that everyone loves.
• Fresh parsley & lemon wedges: Bright garnishes that add a pop of color and zingy finish.
• Warm pita breads (4–6, sliced): Soft, pillowy vehicles for building your perfect bites.
• Pita chips (1 cup): Crunchy contrast alongside the creamy dips and tender chicken.
• Roasted almonds or walnuts (¼ cup): Adds an unexpected crunchy nutty element to your mezze experience.

How to Make Greek Chicken & Olive Mezze Board

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by mixing olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, smoked paprika, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Coat your chicken thighs or breasts evenly in this fragrant marinade. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes so the flavors really soak in and the chicken becomes tender and flavorful.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat up a grill or skillet over medium heat, then add your marinated chicken. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown, juicy, and cooked through. After cooking, let it rest for about 5 minutes to lock in the juices before slicing it into thin, shareable pieces.

Step 3: Prepare the Board

Grab a large serving board or platter and place small bowls filled with tzatziki, hummus, and whipped feta on it. These creamy dips are going to steal the show and serve as delicious anchors for the other ingredients.

Step 4: Arrange the Components

Layer the sliced chicken around those dip bowls, then fill the spaces with mixed olives, pickled red onions, marinated artichoke hearts, and fresh veggies like cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red bell pepper. Scatter roasted nuts and add pita wedges and pita chips for crunch. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for a bright, edible decoration.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Greek Chicken & Olive Mezze Board immediately, while the chicken and pita are still warm. Encourage everyone to build their own wraps or to dip freely. It’s a hands-on, festive way to enjoy a meal that feels both casual and special.

How to Serve Greek Chicken & Olive Mezze Board

Garnishes

Fresh parsley adds a lovely herbal freshness and a pop of green that visually enlivens the board. Lemon wedges aren’t just pretty—they let everyone add a zing of acidity that brightens every bite and balances the rich flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a simple green salad dressed in olive oil and lemon, or some roasted Mediterranean vegetables to complement the mezze spread without overwhelming the palate. A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon makes the perfect accompaniment too.

Creative Ways to Present

Try using individual small boards or platters if you’re serving a crowd, so everyone gets their own personal mezze experience. Layer pita chips and bread slices vertically in small bundles for a visually intriguing touch. For a lighter twist, swap out pita for cucumber boats or lettuce cups to hold the dips and toppings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken, vegetables, and dips separately in airtight containers to keep their textures intact. The components will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy leftovers without sacrificing flavor.

Freezing

The chicken can be frozen but it’s best to freeze it plain, without the fresh vegetables and dips. Wrap cooked chicken tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Dips and fresh veggies don’t freeze well, so prepare those fresh if possible.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until just warmed through, being careful not to dry it out. Serve warm with freshly cut pita and fresh dips to replicate that fresh-out-of-the-kitchen experience.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Both are great options. Thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful, but breasts work well if you prefer leaner meat. Just be mindful not to overcook them to keep them tender.

What kind of olives are best for the mezze board?

Kalamata and green olives are a classic Mediterranean combo for this board because they provide a nice balance of briny, fruity, and slightly bitter flavors that complement the chicken and dips wonderfully.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap the chicken for grilled halloumi cheese or roasted vegetables like zucchini and eggplant. The array of dips, olives, and fresh veggies will still make it a satisfying and colorful mezze experience.

How long can I marinate the chicken?

For best results, marinate for at least 15 minutes. You can extend this up to 2 hours if you have time, which will deepen the flavor. Avoid marinating longer than 4 hours to prevent the lemon juice from breaking down the chicken texture too much.

What drinks pair well with the Greek Chicken & Olive Mezze Board?

Traditional pairings include dry white wines like Assyrtiko or Sauvignon Blanc, a crisp rosé, or even a refreshing sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon to balance the rich and vibrant flavors.

Final Thoughts

The Greek Chicken & Olive Mezze Board is one of those magical dishes that brings everyone together with ease and joy. It’s colorful, flavorful, and endlessly customizable—you’ll never get bored with the variety of tastes and textures on offer. So go ahead, gather your favorite people, and dive into this scrumptious Mediterranean feast that’s sure to become a new favorite at your table.