Creamy Tahini Chicken Polenta – Easy, Delicious Dinner Recipe

Tahini chicken polenta combines tender, flavorful chicken with velvety, creamy polenta and a rich tahini drizzle for the ultimate comfort meal.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave something hearty yet simple to prepare. With just one pan and 30 minutes, you’ll have a savory, satisfying dinner your whole family will love.

What sets this recipe apart is the balance of flavors: the nutty tahini provides a luxurious finish, while the tangy lemon juice keeps things bright.

Plus, the polenta is irresistibly creamy, making it the ideal base for juicy, tomato-infused chicken. Whether you want a healthy tahini chicken dish or an impressive yet easy-to-make meal, this recipe delivers it all.

My Story Behind This Tahini Chicken Polenta

The inspiration for this tahini chicken polenta came from my love for combining bold Mediterranean flavors with comforting classics. A few years ago, I stumbled upon a polenta dish at a cozy Italian trattoria, and it instantly transported me to my culinary school days, where we perfected creamy polenta from scratch.

I couldn’t resist adapting it into an easy tahini chicken recipe that blends my Mediterranean roots with a homestyle Italian touch.

I’ve tested countless versions to perfect this creamy polenta with chicken. The nutty tahini sauce contrasts beautifully with the savory crushed tomatoes, while the lemon juice and fresh parsley add brightness.

Every ingredient has a purpose, and every bite feels like a hug on a plate. I’m thrilled to share this dish with you—it’s truly become one of my go-to favorites!

Ingredients for Tahini Chicken Polenta

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 shallot, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, chopped
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 cups chicken breast or thigh, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 1/2 cup polenta (coarse cornmeal)
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Tahini Chicken Polenta

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped shallot, garlic, and tomato paste. Sauté until the tomato paste darkens in color, about 2-3 minutes, enhancing its natural sweetness.
3. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown on all sides.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring to coat the chicken evenly. Lower the heat to medium and let simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The chicken should be tender and infused with the tomato flavors.
5. While the chicken mixture cooks, bring the chicken stock to a boil in a separate saucepan.
6. Reduce the heat to low and gradually whisk in the polenta. Stir continuously for about 10-15 minutes until it reaches a creamy consistency. Add a splash of extra stock if it starts to thicken too much.
7. In a small bowl, mix the tahini with lemon juice until smooth and pourable. Adjust the consistency by adding a teaspoon of water if needed.
8. Serve the creamy polenta on plates, top with the chicken and tomato mixture, and drizzle the tahini sauce generously over the dish. Finish with fresh parsley for a bright, herbal touch. Enjoy immediately!

My Chef Tips for the Best Tahini Chicken Polenta

• Prepping ahead: Chop your shallots, garlic, and parsley in advance to streamline cooking.
• Perfect polenta consistency: Stir your polenta continuously to avoid clumping and ensure it’s creamy. Add more chicken stock as needed to loosen it up.
• Polenta ratio: Use the standard 2:1 liquid-to-polenta ratio for the best texture.
• Customize proteins: Swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu to suit dietary preferences while keeping the tahini sauce intact.
• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat over low heat, adding a splash of water or stock to refresh the texture.

Tahini Chicken Polenta FAQs

Can I use instant polenta?

Yes, instant polenta will work if you’re short on time. Just adjust the cooking time based on the package instructions, but keep the liquid ratio the same.

Is this a healthy tahini chicken dish?

Absolutely! This recipe packs 25 grams of protein per serving, along with healthy fats from the tahini and fiber from the polenta. It’s both wholesome and satisfying.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

It already is! This recipe uses tahini and chicken stock for creaminess instead of dairy, making it naturally dairy-free and flavorful.

What’s the best way to reheat tahini chicken polenta?

Reheat the chicken and polenta separately over low heat. Add some chicken stock or water to the polenta to help loosen it up while stirring continuously.

Ready to Make This Tahini Chicken Polenta?

This tahini chicken polenta is the perfect mix of hearty, creamy, and healthy. Packed with Mediterranean-inspired flavors, it’s a versatile dish you’ll want to make again and again. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal for loved ones, it’s guaranteed to impress.

What’s your favorite way to enjoy chicken and polenta? Let me know in the comments below, or share your creations and tag me on social media. I can’t wait to see how you make this dish your own!