Description
This Mediterranean mezze platter is a vibrant, restaurant-quality spread featuring juicy harissa-marinated chicken, silky homemade hummus, marinated olives, feta cheese cubes, roasted red peppers, fresh vegetables, artisan flatbread, and a rich olive tapenade. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer board that balances smoky, savory, creamy, and fresh flavors.
Perfect for:
Elegant dinner parties
Holiday gatherings
Wine and cheese nights
High-end catering menus
Luxury home entertaining
This recipe combines premium Mediterranean ingredients with bold spices for a gourmet presentation.
Ingredients
For the Harissa Chicken
4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
2 tablespoons harissa paste
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
For the Creamy Hummus
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
¼ cup tahini
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 garlic clove
½ teaspoon salt
2–3 tablespoons cold water (for smooth texture)
Olive Tapenade
1 cup mixed olives (Kalamata & green olives)
1 tablespoon capers
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 small garlic clove
Board Additions
Cubed feta cheese
Cherry tomatoes (red & yellow)
Sliced cucumber
Roasted red peppers
Fresh parsley or kale for garnish
Marinated olives
Artisan flatbread or focaccia
Lemon slices
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine harissa paste, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Coat chicken thoroughly. Marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a grill pan over medium-high heat.
Cook chicken 6–7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Let rest 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley and sesame seeds if desired.
Step 3: Make the Hummus
Blend chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and salt. Add cold water gradually until smooth and creamy. Drizzle olive oil on top and sprinkle with parsley.
Step 4: Prepare the Tapenade
Pulse olives, capers, garlic, lemon zest, and olive oil in a food processor until chunky but spreadable.
Step 5: Assemble the Mezze Board
Place hummus and tapenade in small bowls.
Arrange chicken as the centerpiece.
Surround with vegetables, cheese, olives, and flatbread.
Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon slices.
Serve immediately.
Pro Tips for a Luxury Presentation
Use a large wooden charcuterie board.
Add edible flowers for a gourmet aesthetic.
Warm the flatbread before serving.
Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for authentic Mediterranean flavor.
Pair with Sauvignon Blanc or dry rosé wine.
Nutrition & Health Benefits
High-protein chicken for muscle support
Healthy fats from olive oil and olives
Fiber-rich chickpeas for digestive health
Antioxidants from fresh vegetables
Heart-healthy Mediterranean diet ingredients
This platter aligns well with heart-healthy eating patterns and balanced meal planning.
Frequently Asked Questions (High-Intent Food & Entertaining Queries)
1. What is the best chicken for a Mediterranean mezze platter?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are best because they stay juicy and absorb marinade well.
2. Can I make this mezze platter ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare hummus and tapenade up to 2 days in advance. Cook chicken same day for best texture.
3. How do I make restaurant-style creamy hummus?
Use tahini, fresh lemon juice, and ice-cold water while blending to achieve ultra-smooth texture.
4. What bread pairs best with Mediterranean appetizers?
Warm pita bread, artisan focaccia, or grilled flatbread work perfectly.
5. Is this platter good for catering or corporate events?
Absolutely. Mediterranean catering menus are popular for upscale corporate events and luxury gatherings due to their fresh, premium ingredients.
6. How do I store leftovers?
Store components separately in airtight containers. Consume within 3–4 days.
7. Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes — replace flatbread with gluten-free crackers or sliced vegetables.
8. What wine pairs best with Mediterranean chicken?
Dry rosé, Sauvignon Blanc, or light Pinot Noir complement the spices and olive oil.
Variations
Vegetarian Mezze Board: Replace chicken with grilled halloumi or falafel.
Low-Carb Version: Skip bread and add more vegetables.
Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or spicy harissa.
Luxury Upgrade: Add burrata, prosciutto, or truffle-infused olive oil.
Serving Suggestions
Perfect as a premium appetizer platter
Ideal for holiday entertaining menus
Great for romantic dinner spreads
Excellent for summer outdoor parties
Popular for high-end charcuterie catering businesses
