Grilled Mediterranean Chicken
There’s something absolutely delightful about preparing a dish that transports you straight to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean. Grilled Mediterranean Chicken has become one of my go-to recipes when I crave those vibrant flavors and the joy of grilling. Picture this: it’s a warm summer evening, the sun’s setting, and I’m firing up the grill, ready to create something scrumptious. The aroma of marinated chicken wafts through the air, mingling with the sounds of laughter and clinking glasses. This dish not only delivers on taste but also brings people together, creating memories with every bite.
Recipe Snapshot
17 mins
5 mins
12 mins
Medium
300 kcal
35 g
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
15 g
Grater, Frying Pan, Peeler, Whisk, Chef’s Knife
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Mediterranean Chicken
Flavor Explosion
The first reason I absolutely love Grilled Mediterranean Chicken is the explosion of flavors. The marinade, made from creamy Greek yogurt, zesty lemon juice, and fragrant garlic, infuses the chicken with a tangy punch that’s hard to resist. It’s like a Mediterranean vacation on a plate!
Super Simple Prep
Next, let’s talk about how incredibly simple it is to prep. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a marinade that does all the heavy lifting. I typically mix everything in a bowl, toss in the chicken, and let it marinate while I prepare the rest of my meal. It’s a breeze!
Healthy Yet Satisfying
Another reason this dish stands out is its healthiness. Grilled Mediterranean Chicken is packed with protein from the chicken and has healthy fats from the olive oil. It’s a meal I can feel good about serving to my family or guests.
Perfect for Summer Gatherings
This dish shines during summer gatherings. Whether it’s a backyard BBQ or a casual dinner party, Grilled Mediterranean Chicken is a crowd-pleaser. Serve it alongside some fresh salad and pita bread, and you’ve got a feast that everyone will rave about.
Versatility
Let’s not forget about its versatility! You can easily tweak the marinade or serve the chicken with different sides. Whether you prefer it with roasted vegetables or in a wrap, this dish adapts beautifully to different tastes.
Impressive Presentation
Finally, the presentation of Grilled Mediterranean Chicken is simply stunning. The char marks from grilling, combined with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley, make it visually appealing. It’s a dish that not only tastes amazing but looks like a work of art!
Grilled Mediterranean Chicken Shopping List
When it comes to preparing a dish like Grilled Mediterranean Chicken, the ingredients are key players that enhance each other’s flavors wonderfully. The combination of tangy Greek yogurt, zesty lemon juice, and aromatic garlic creates a marinade that not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with a vibrant taste that sings of Mediterranean summer days. Each ingredient plays a significant role in making this dish a delightful experience.
- 1 cup Greek yogurt: This creamy base is essential for the marinade, providing a rich texture and tangy flavor.
- ½ cup lemon juice: Adds brightness and acidity, balancing the richness of the yogurt.
- ¼ cup olive oil: Infuses healthy fats and helps the marinade adhere to the chicken.
- 4 garlic cloves, peeled, grated or finely minced: Offers a robust, aromatic flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- 3 tablespoons paprika: Brings a mild sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
- 1 ½ tablespoons kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors and helps tenderize the chicken.
- 2 teaspoons black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth to the marinade.
- 1 cup Italian parsley, roughly chopped: Fresh herbs add brightness and a pop of color when serving.
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano: Infuses a classic Mediterranean flavor, enhancing the earthy notes.
- 2 pounds boneless and skinless chicken breast: The star of the dish, perfect for grilling and absorbing the marinade.
Recipe Directions for Grilled Mediterranean Chicken
Cooking Grilled Mediterranean Chicken is an enjoyable and aromatic experience. Following these steps will ensure your chicken is juicy and packed with flavor. Let’s get started!
In a medium bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, paprika, kosher salt, black pepper, parsley, and dried oregano. As you mix, notice the vibrant colors and enticing aroma. This marinade is going to make your chicken absolutely delicious!
Reserve ¼ to ½ cup of the marinade for brushing on later. Nestle the chicken breasts into the bowl, turning to coat them all over with the marinade. This helps every bit of the chicken get infused with flavor.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the fridge for three hours. Make sure to give it time; this is where the magic happens as the flavors meld and the chicken becomes tender.
Preheat your grill to medium (around 375 degrees F) for about ten minutes. You want to achieve that perfect sear on your chicken.
Place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill, shaking off excess marinade into the bowl. Grill with the lid on for six to nine minutes per side. You’re looking for a perfect golden brown color, and an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
While the chicken is cooking, heat the reserved marinade in a small saucepan over medium-low heat until it’s warmed through and the color darkens. This will serve as a delicious sauce to brush on after grilling.
Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the grill and place them in a clean bowl, covering with a plate. Let them rest for ten minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making your chicken even juicier.
After resting, brush the reserved marinade onto the chicken before slicing and serving. The aroma will be irresistible!
Enjoy your Grilled Mediterranean Chicken with fluffy pita, a fresh Israeli salad, and creamy hummus for an authentic Mediterranean experience.
Things Worth Knowing
- Marinating is Key: Marinating the chicken for a few hours allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Grill Temperature: Maintaining the right grill temperature is crucial. Too hot, and the outside will char before the inside is cooked.
- Rest After Cooking: Always let your grilled chicken rest before slicing. This helps retain juices for a more succulent bite.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices will enhance the overall taste. Dried herbs work too, but fresh is always better!
Tips for Success
To ensure your Grilled Mediterranean Chicken turns out perfectly, here are some handy tips:
- Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the marinated chicken before grilling for up to three months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.
- Pairing: This chicken pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables, rice pilaf, or couscous.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- Serving Style: Serve the chicken whole or sliced on a platter garnished with fresh herbs.
Side Dish Ideas for Grilled Mediterranean Chicken
When serving Grilled Mediterranean Chicken, consider these delightful accompaniments:
- Tabbouleh Salad: A refreshing mix of parsley, tomatoes, and bulgur wheat adds a bright contrast to the savory chicken.
- Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, drizzled with olive oil, complement the smoky flavor of the chicken.
- Couscous: This fluffy grain is perfect for soaking up the marinade’s delicious juices.
- Hummus: Serve alongside creamy hummus for a rich and flavorful dip.
- Pita Bread: Fluffy pita is great for scooping up the chicken and salads, making it a fun hand-held meal.
- Chickpea Salad: A hearty salad with chickpeas, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette adds protein and freshness.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Grilled Mediterranean Chicken is a dish that combines simplicity with vibrant flavors, making it a standout choice for any meal. With its easy preparation and delicious outcome, I encourage you to try making it tonight. Embrace the Mediterranean spirit and enjoy a culinary adventure right in your kitchen!
Grilled Mediterranean Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, paprika, kosher salt, black pepper, parsley, and dried oregano. As you mix, notice the vibrant colors and enticing aroma. This marinade is going to make your chicken absolutely delicious!
- Reserve ¼ to ½ cup of the marinade for brushing on later. Nestle the chicken breasts into the bowl, turning to coat them all over with the marinade. This helps every bit of the chicken get infused with flavor.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the fridge for three hours. Make sure to give it time; this is where the magic happens as the flavors meld and the chicken becomes tender.
- Preheat your grill to medium (around 375 degrees F) for about ten minutes. You want to achieve that perfect sear on your chicken.
- Place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill, shaking off excess marinade into the bowl. Grill with the lid on for six to nine minutes per side. You’re looking for a perfect golden brown color, and an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
- While the chicken is cooking, heat the reserved marinade in a small saucepan over medium-low heat until it’s warmed through and the color darkens. This will serve as a delicious sauce to brush on after grilling.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the grill and place them in a clean bowl, covering with a plate. Let them rest for ten minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making your chicken even juicier.
- After resting, brush the reserved marinade onto the chicken before slicing and serving. The aroma will be irresistible!
- Enjoy your Grilled Mediterranean Chicken with fluffy pita, a fresh Israeli salad, and creamy hummus for an authentic Mediterranean experience.
Notes
- Tip 1: You can also bake this in an oven preheated to 375 degrees F if you don’t have a grill, though you will not get those beautiful char marks.
- Tip 2: You can make these into skewers if you prefer!
