Greek Grilled Chicken
There’s something magically comforting about cooking outdoors, especially when it comes to making Greek Grilled Chicken. On warm summer evenings, I find myself drawn to the grill, excited to savor the blend of spices that take this dish from ordinary to extraordinary. The smoky aroma fills the air, reminding me of family gatherings and shared meals that linger into the night. Each bite of juicy, marinated chicken transports me to a sun-drenched Mediterranean landscape, where flavors burst with every mouthful. As I slice into the tender flesh, I can hardly wait to serve it with a refreshing salad or perhaps some warm pita. This dish isn’t just food; it’s a celebration of the vibrant and rich culinary tradition of Greece. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering of friends, Greek Grilled Chicken is always a hit, bringing joy and flavor to the table.
Recipe Snapshot
60 mins
0 mins
0 mins
Medium
320 kcal
65 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
7 g
Grater, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon
The Appeal of This Greek Grilled Chicken
Authentic Flavor
The true star of Greek Grilled Chicken lies in its marinade. A delightful mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and aromatic herbs creates a flavor profile that’s both bright and savory. This combination not only enhances the taste but also tenderizes the chicken, ensuring a juicy result that’s hard to resist.
Simple Preparation
Grilling can seem daunting, but making Greek Grilled Chicken is incredibly straightforward. Even if you’re a novice, the steps are simple and enjoyable. Marinating the chicken takes minimal effort, and the grilling itself is almost instinctual. With just a little preparation, you can impress everyone with your culinary skills.
Versatile Dish
This recipe is so versatile that it fits into any meal plan. Whether you want a hearty lunch, a light dinner, or a main attraction at a summer barbecue, Greek Grilled Chicken shines in every scenario. You can pair it with a variety of sides or salads, making it adaptable for all tastes.
Perfect for Leftovers
One of the best things about Greek Grilled Chicken is how well it holds up as leftovers. You can easily slice it up for salads, toss it in wraps, or incorporate it into stir-fries. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy delicious meals throughout the week without additional cooking.
Healthy and Wholesome
With its fresh ingredients and lean protein, Greek Grilled Chicken fits perfectly into a healthy diet. The marinade includes wholesome items like olive oil and fresh herbs, ensuring that your meal is both nutritious and satisfying.
Ingredients Required for Greek Grilled Chicken
When making Greek Grilled Chicken, the ingredients you choose play a significant role in the overall flavor and experience. The magic of this dish lies in its simplicity and the quality of its components. Fresh herbs, zesty lemon, and high-quality olive oil work harmoniously to elevate the basic chicken into something extraordinary.
- 8 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The foundation of your dish, these tender cuts of chicken soak up flavors beautifully, ensuring each bite is juicy and satisfying.
Cooking Instructions for Greek Grilled Chicken
Preparing Greek Grilled Chicken is a delightful adventure that brings the best of summer cooking into your kitchen. You’ll love how simple it is to transform basic ingredients into something truly special. Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in no time!
- Start by ensuring your chicken is ready. Trim all visible fat and membranes from the chicken breasts. This helps to keep your dish light and healthy.
- Next, create small crosswise slits about half an inch apart down the length of each chicken breast. This technique allows the marinade to penetrate deeply, infusing the meat with flavors.
- Place the chicken in a single layer into a large Ziploc bag. This will make marinating easy and effective.
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, fresh-squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, Greek seasoning, Poultry seasoning, dried Greek oregano, and freshly ground black pepper. This marinade is the heart of your dish and brings a burst of flavor.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken in the bag, ensuring that every piece is well-coated. Seal the bag and give it a gentle shake to mix everything nicely.
- Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for six to eight hours, or even all day if you have the time. The longer it sits, the more flavorful it becomes.
- When you’re ready to cook, remove the chicken from the marinade and allow it to drain for a moment. Bringing it to room temperature ensures even cooking.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, spraying it with non-stick spray or brushing it lightly with oil. This prevents sticking and makes your grilling experience smoother.
- Place the chicken on the grill, top side down, on a diagonal to the grill grates. Grill for about four minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when you see beautiful grill marks.
- Rotate your chicken pieces to the opposite diagonal and continue grilling for another four minutes. Look for the signature criss-cross grill marks that show it’s cooking perfectly.
- Flip the chicken over and cook for an additional four to eight minutes. The chicken should feel firm but not hard to the touch. Using an instant-read meat thermometer, check that it has reached an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s safe to eat.
- Even for small gatherings, consider making the whole recipe. Leftover Greek Grilled Chicken can be cut up and enjoyed in salads, wraps, or stir-fried with vegetables for a quick lunch. Enjoy!
Things Worth Knowing
- Marination time: Allowing the chicken to marinate for several hours is crucial for flavor development. Don’t rush this step!
- Grill temperature: It’s vital to preheat the grill to the correct temperature. Too low, and the chicken will dry out; too high, and it may burn.
- Cooking technique: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. This ensures your chicken is moist and safe to eat.
- Resting time: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This allows juices to redistribute for a tender bite.
Helpful Notes about Greek Grilled Chicken
As you embark on your cooking journey, here are a few helpful notes to keep in mind while preparing Greek Grilled Chicken. These tips will enhance your grilling experience and ensure a delicious outcome!
- Storage: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will keep it fresh for up to three days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the marinated chicken before grilling. Just ensure to use a freezer-safe bag and consume within three months for the best flavor.
- Pairing: Serve with a refreshing Greek salad, tzatziki sauce, or warm pita bread. These sides complement the chicken beautifully.
- Herb variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs in the marinade. Fresh rosemary or thyme can add a lovely twist.
- Serving suggestion: This chicken is fantastic served hot off the grill or chilled as part of a summer picnic spread.
What to Serve With Greek Grilled Chicken
When it comes to serving Greek Grilled Chicken, the possibilities are endless! Here are some delightful ideas to enhance your meal:
- Greek Salad: A fresh salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta complements the flavors of the chicken perfectly.
- Tzatziki Sauce: This creamy yogurt-based sauce adds a cool contrast to the grilled chicken, enriching every bite.
- Pita Bread: Soft, warm pita is great for scooping up chicken and dipping in tzatziki.
- Rice Pilaf: A simple rice dish with herbs and spices pairs well with the chicken, making each bite deliciously satisfying.
- Grilled Vegetables: Adding seasonal vegetables to the grill brings a colorful touch to your plate and enhances the meal.
- Occasions: This dish is perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or casual weeknight dinners. It’s a crowd-pleaser!
FAQ
Conclusion
In conclusion, Greek Grilled Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together vibrant flavors and a simple preparation process. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether a casual dinner or a festive barbecue. I encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy the mouthwatering taste of the Mediterranean in your own home. You won’t be disappointed!
Greek Grilled Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by ensuring your chicken is ready. Trim all visible fat and membranes from the chicken breasts. This helps to keep your dish light and healthy.
- Next, create small crosswise slits about half an inch apart down the length of each chicken breast. This technique allows the marinade to penetrate deeply, infusing the meat with flavors.
- Place the chicken in a single layer into a large Ziploc bag. This will make marinating easy and effective.
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, fresh-squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, Greek seasoning, Poultry seasoning, dried Greek oregano, and freshly ground black pepper. This marinade is the heart of your dish and brings a burst of flavor.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken in the bag, ensuring that every piece is well-coated. Seal the bag and give it a gentle shake to mix everything nicely.
- Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for six to eight hours, or even all day if you have the time. The longer it sits, the more flavorful it becomes.
- When you’re ready to cook, remove the chicken from the marinade and allow it to drain for a moment. Bringing it to room temperature ensures even cooking.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, spraying it with non-stick spray or brushing it lightly with oil. This prevents sticking and makes your grilling experience smoother.
- Place the chicken on the grill, top side down, on a diagonal to the grill grates. Grill for about four minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when you see beautiful grill marks.
- Rotate your chicken pieces to the opposite diagonal and continue grilling for another four minutes. Look for the signature criss-cross grill marks that show it’s cooking perfectly.
- Flip the chicken over and cook for an additional four to eight minutes. The chicken should feel firm but not hard to the touch. Using an instant-read meat thermometer, check that it has reached an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s safe to eat.
- Even for small gatherings, consider making the whole recipe. Leftover Greek Grilled Chicken can be cut up and enjoyed in salads, wraps, or stir-fried with vegetables for a quick lunch. Enjoy!
