Grilled Chicken Fingers from Zoes Kitchen feature tender, marinated chicken strips grilled to perfection, served with a side of tangy dipping sauce, offering a flavorful and healthy twist on a classic favorite.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Tongs
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring spoons
- Serving platter
- Small bowl (for dipping sauce)
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- For dipping sauce:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Ensure you use boneless, skinless chicken breasts to achieve tender, juicy grilled chicken fingers similar to Zoes Kitchen's signature dish. Marinating the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper enhances flavor and tenderness. Fresh ingredients like lemon juice and garlic powder in both the chicken and dipping sauce contribute to the dish's vibrant taste profile. The combination of Greek yogurt and mayonnaise in the dipping sauce balances creaminess with tanginess, complementing the grilled chicken perfectly. Your copycat Grilled Chicken Fingers from Zoes Kitchen will capture the authentic flavor and healthy twist of the original menu item.
Instructions
- Slice chicken breasts into strips on the cutting board using a chef’s knife.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add chicken strips to the marinade; toss to coat well. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Remove chicken from marinade and grill using tongs, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side, until cooked through.
- Transfer grilled chicken fingers to a serving platter.
- In a small bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper for dipping sauce.
- Serve chicken fingers warm with dipping sauce on the side.
Substitution
Grilled Chicken Fingers from Zoes Kitchen copycat recipe can be adapted using boneless, skinless thighs if you prefer a juicier and more flavorful option compared to chicken breasts. When a grill or grill pan is unavailable, cooking the chicken fingers in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat offers a similar seared texture. You can swap fresh dill in the dipping sauce for dried dill or fresh parsley if that's what you have on hand without compromising flavor significantly. Adjust the paprika and garlic powder quantities based on your taste preference for spice and aroma. Remember to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance tenderness and infuse all the herbs and spices thoroughly.
Tips
When slicing chicken breasts, ensure your chef's knife is sharp for clean, even strips that cook uniformly. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors of olive oil, lemon juice, and spices to penetrate the meat deeply. Preheat your grill or grill pan thoroughly to medium-high heat before cooking to achieve beautiful grill marks and prevent sticking. Your dipping sauce, combining Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and fresh dill, should be seasoned to taste for the perfect balance that complements the grilled chicken fingers.
Nutritions
Grilled Chicken Fingers from Zoes Kitchen provide a lean source of protein with 1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken breasts packed with essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and growth. The use of olive oil and Greek yogurt adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and probiotics, supporting cardiovascular and digestive health. Lemon juice and fresh dill contribute antioxidants and vitamin C, promoting immune function and reducing inflammation. Your meal balances macronutrients effectively while offering a flavorful, nutritious option suitable for a health-conscious diet.
Storage
Store leftover grilled chicken fingers in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. The tangy dipping sauce should be kept separately in a sealed container in the fridge to preserve its creamy texture and flavor. For optimal quality, consume both within 3 to 4 days, reheating the chicken gently to avoid drying out the tender, marinated strips.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts with chicken thighs for juicier grilled chicken fingers. Experiment with adding smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the marinade to enhance smoky or spicy flavors. Swap fresh dill in the dipping sauce with fresh cilantro or parsley for a different herbal note. For a healthier twist, replace mayonnaise with extra Greek yogurt in the dipping sauce to reduce fat content.
Allergies
Grilled Chicken Fingers from Zoes Kitchen contain common allergens such as dairy in the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise found in the dipping sauce. Garlic and certain spices like paprika or oregano may also cause allergic reactions or sensitivities in some individuals. It's important for you to check ingredient labels and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any known food allergies before enjoying this dish.
Why this recipe?
Zoes Kitchen's Grilled Chicken Fingers are beloved for their tender, smoky flavor and perfectly charred exterior, delivering a healthy yet indulgent option. The use of fresh, high-quality ingredients such as marinated chicken breast and a blend of Mediterranean spices makes these fingers uniquely flavorful and satisfying. You'll appreciate how replicating this dish at home allows you to control seasoning and achieve restaurant-quality taste without the extra cost. Mastering a copycat recipe brings the vibrant, wholesome Mediterranean experience from Zoes Kitchen straight to your table.