Introduction
Grilled chicken served with a zesty pepperoncini butter sauce and a refreshing cucumber salad makes for a delightful meal. This dish is not only easy to prepare, but it also bursts with flavor, making it perfect for summer grilling or a family dinner. The combination of marinated chicken, tangy sauce, and crisp salad will surely satisfy your taste buds.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Grilled Chicken:
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
1 lb. chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Pepperoncini Butter Sauce:
6 tablespoons butter
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 cup pepperoncini brine
1/4 to 1/2 cup pepperoncinis, chopped
For the Cucumber Salad:
1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
Half a cucumber, chopped
A quarter of a red onion, minced or thinly sliced
Salt and pepper, to taste
Olive oil, to taste
Vinegar, to taste
Extras:
Chives
Feta cheese
Hummus
Pita bread
Prep Time
30 minutes (can marinate longer for enhanced flavor)
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
45 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Enjoy your meal!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl or plastic bag, combine the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, coarse kosher salt, and olive oil. Mix until the chicken is well-coated. Set aside in the refrigerator to marinate while preparing the other components (for at least 30 minutes, up to several hours).
Prepare the Cucumber Salad
In a bowl, combine the halved cherry or grape tomatoes, chopped cucumber, and minced or thinly sliced red onion. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle with a small amount of olive oil and vinegar, tossing gently to combine. Use a light hand to avoid making the salad watery.
Make the Pepperoncini Butter Sauce
Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl or on the stovetop. Stir in the minced garlic, pepperoncini brine, and chopped pepperoncinis until well combined. Set aside.
Grill the Chicken
Preheat a grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken breasts until cooked through and golden brown on both sides, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Assemble the Dish
Spread hummus onto a large platter. Arrange the cucumber salad in small mounds around the edge of the platter. Place the sliced grilled chicken in the center. Drizzle the pepperoncini butter sauce over the chicken. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and chopped chives. Serve with pita bread on the side.
Notes
Chicken Marinade
For best results, allow the chicken to marinate for several hours to enhance flavor.
Salad Freshness
Make the cucumber salad just before serving for maximum freshness.
Butter Sauce Variation
Adjust the amount of pepperoncinis based on your spice preference.
Serving Suggestions
Chives and feta cheese add flavor but can be omitted if desired. Enjoy with additional pita bread for dipping.
Cook techniques
Marination
Marination involves soaking the chicken breasts in a mixture of spices and olive oil, which enhances the flavor and tenderness of the meat.
Grilling
Grilling is a cooking technique that uses direct heat to cook food. Preheat your grill, grill pan, or skillet until it reaches medium-high heat and cook the marinated chicken until it’s golden brown and fully cooked.
Making a Sauce
Creating the pepperoncini butter sauce involves melting butter and mixing in minced garlic, pepperoncini brine, and chopped pepperoncinis. This adds a rich flavor to the grilled chicken.
Preparing a Salad
To prepare the cucumber salad, combine fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Season with salt, pepper, olive oil, and vinegar for a fresh side dish that complements the main meal.
Plating
Assemble the meal by spreading hummus on a platter, arranging the cucumber salad around it, and placing sliced grilled chicken in the center. Drizzle with sauce and finish with toppings like feta cheese and chives.
FAQ
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but it can be left for several hours for more flavor.
What temperature should the chicken be cooked to?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safely cooked.
Can I use different vegetables in the salad?
Yes, you can customize the salad with your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or avocados.
What can I substitute for pepperoncinis?
If you don’t have pepperoncinis, you can use other pickled peppers or even jalapeños for some heat.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
This Grilled Chicken with Pepperoncini Butter Sauce, complemented by a refreshing Cucumber Salad, is a delightful meal that balances flavors beautifully. The marinated chicken absorbs aromatic spices, while the tangy pepperoncini sauce elevates the richness of the dish. Served with fresh vegetables and creamy hummus, it’s a satisfying option for any occasion.
Grilled Chicken Tacos
Use the grilled chicken in soft tortillas with sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of pepperoncini butter sauce. Top with feta cheese and chives for a tasty taco twist.
Cucumber and Hummus Wraps
Spread hummus on a whole wheat wrap and layer with chopped cucumbers, red onions, and cherry tomatoes. Roll tightly and serve sliced for a refreshing snack or lunch.
Feta and Tomato Bruschetta
Toast slices of pita bread and top with chopped cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil. Add a sprinkle of pepperoncini for an extra kick.
Greek Inspired Salad
Combine chopped cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta cheese. Drizzle with olive oil and vinegar, tossing with fresh chives and pepperoncinis for a zesty salad.
Chicken and Veggie Skewers
Cube the grilled chicken and skewer with cherry tomatoes and cucumber slices. Brush with the pepperoncini butter sauce before grilling for extra flavor.
Chickpea and Cucumber Salad
Mix chickpeas with chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and a splash of pepperoncini brine for a healthy and hearty salad option.
Stuffed Pita with Chicken
Stuff pita bread with sliced grilled chicken, cucumber salad, and a generous dollop of hummus for a wholesome and portable meal.
