Heraklion Chicken Platter

Introduction to Heraklion Chicken Platter

The Heraklion Chicken Platter is a delightful Greek-inspired dish that brings the robust flavors of the Mediterranean to your dining table. The dish is named after Heraklion, the largest city on the island of Crete, known for its rich culinary traditions. This platter features marinated and grilled chicken served alongside a medley of vegetables and classic Greek accompaniments.

Greek cuisine is known for its use of fresh ingredients, olive oil, lemon, and aromatic herbs that emphasize flavor and simplicity. This dish is a testament to that tradition, providing a balanced and flavorful meal that can be enjoyed at any time.

Ingredients for Heraklion Chicken Platter

• Chicken Breast - 4 pieces
• Olive Oil - 4 tablespoons
• Lemon - 1, juiced
• Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
• Oregano - 2 teaspoons, dried
• Thyme - 1 teaspoon, dried
• Rosemary - 1 teaspoon, dried
• Salt - to taste
• Black Pepper - to taste
• Red Bell Pepper - 1, sliced
• Zucchini - 2, sliced
• Red Onion - 1, sliced
• Cherry Tomatoes - 1 cup
• Feta Cheese - 1/2 cup, crumbled
• Kalamata Olives - 1/2 cup
• Pita Bread - 4 pieces
• Tzatziki Sauce - 1 cup

Preparation Steps

Marinating the Chicken

To begin making the Heraklion Chicken Platter, start by marinating the chicken breast. In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.

Place the chicken breast pieces into the marinade. Ensure that each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to penetrate the chicken. For a more intense flavor, you can leave it overnight.

Preparing the Vegetables

While the chicken is marinating, prepare the vegetables. Slice the red bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion into uniform sizes. This will ensure even cooking. Halve the cherry tomatoes and set all vegetables aside in a bowl.

Cooking Process

Grilling the Chicken

Once the chicken has marinated to your liking, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a cooking timer to ensure precision in cooking times.

Grilling the Vegetables

After the chicken is cooked, set it aside to rest. Place the mixed vegetables on the grill, turning occasionally, until they are tender and have nice grill marks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Toasting the Pita

While the vegetables are grilling, warm the pita bread on the grill for about 1-2 minutes per side until they are heated through and have slight grill marks. Be careful not to over-toast them.

Plating and Serving

To serve the Heraklion Chicken Platter, slice the grilled chicken and arrange it on a large platter. Add the grilled vegetables alongside the chicken. Sprinkle the platter with feta cheese and kalamata olives for added flavor and authenticity.

Serve with the warmed pita bread and a generous side of tzatziki sauce for dipping. This dish pairs beautifully with a chilled glass of white wine or a light Greek salad for a complete meal.

Enjoying Your Meal

The Heraklion Chicken Platter offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors. The tenderness of the chicken, the freshness of the vegetables, and the creamy tzatziki sauce create a harmonious balance. To truly experience this dish, try taking a bit of everything in each bite, including the pita bread as a scoop for the sauce and fillings.

Whether you're serving this platter at a family gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, the joy of Greek cuisine is in its sharing nature—perfect for creating unforgettable meals and memories.

Conclusion

The Heraklion Chicken Platter is not just a meal; it's an experience of Greek culture and tradition. From the marinated chicken to the medley of vegetables and Greek classics, each element tells a story of Cretan culinary heritage. This dish celebrates simplicity and flavor, making it a delightful option for any occasion.