Very Greek Grilled Chicken

This Very Greek Grilled Chicken is a perfect dish for any occasion, from family dinners to summer barbecues. With its vibrant flavors reminiscent of Greek Chicken Souvlaki, this grilled chicken breast stands out for its juicy texture and zesty marinade. It’s not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making it a fantastic addition to salads, wraps, or served with your favorite sides.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of olive oil, lemon, and Greek seasonings creates a mouthwatering taste that will impress your family and friends.
• Versatile Use: Enjoy the grilled chicken on its own or use it in various dishes like salads, tacos, or stir-fry for a quick meal.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this dish makes for a nutritious choice that fits well into many diets.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week in different meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start grilling your Very Greek Grilled Chicken, gather your tools to make the process seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Ziploc bag
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Instant-Read Meat Thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving those beautiful grill marks and smoky flavor signature to grilled chicken.
• Ziploc bag: Perfect for marinating the chicken evenly without mess.
• Instant-Read Meat Thermometer: Ensures your chicken reaches a safe internal temperature while avoiding overcooking.

Ingredients

This Very Greek Grilled Chicken has all the flavors of Greek Chicken Souvlaki in a grilled chicken breast.

For the Chicken

• 8 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

For the Marinade

• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/3 cup fresh-squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tsp. (or more) fresh lemon zest (see notes)
• 1 tsp. Greek Seasoning
• 1 tsp. poultry seasoning
• 1 tsp. dried oregano
• black pepper to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Very Greek Grilled Chicken

Step 1: Prepare Your Grill

Begin by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. Spray it with non-stick spray or lightly oil it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Trim the Chicken Breasts

Trim all visible fat and membranes from the chicken breasts. If desired, make small crosswise slits about 1/2 inch apart down each breast to help the marinade penetrate.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken in a single layer in a Ziploc bag. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Greek seasoning, poultry seasoning, dried oregano, and black pepper. Pour this marinade over the chicken in the bag. Seal it tightly and refrigerate for 6-8 hours or overnight if possible.

Step 4: Prepare for Grilling

When ready to cook, remove the chicken from the marinade using a colander placed in the sink. Allow it to drain while coming to room temperature.

Step 5: Grill the Chicken

Once preheated, place the chicken top side down on the grill at an angle. Cook for about 4 minutes until grill marks form. Rotate pieces diagonally for criss-cross grill marks and cook another 4 minutes.

Step 6: Flip and Finish Cooking

Turn each piece over and grill for an additional 4-8 minutes until firm but not hard when pressed. The internal temperature should reach 165F/75C.

Step 7: Serve or Store Leftovers

Consider making extra grilled chicken as leftovers are great for salads or mixed into quick lunches throughout the week!

How to Serve Very Greek Grilled Chicken

Serving Very Greek Grilled Chicken can be a delightful experience that enhances its Mediterranean flavors. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this dish.

On a Salad

• Top a fresh greens salad with sliced grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese for a refreshing meal.

In a Pita

• Stuff warm pita bread with grilled chicken, tzatziki sauce, lettuce, and diced tomatoes for a quick and satisfying lunch.

With Rice or Quinoa

• Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa, drizzled with lemon juice and olive oil for added flavor.

As a Wrap

• Roll sliced chicken in a tortilla with hummus, mixed veggies, and greens for an easy-to-eat wrap that’s perfect for picnics.

In Greek Tacos

• Use soft corn tortillas filled with grilled chicken, avocado, and salsa for a fun twist on traditional tacos.

Alongside Roasted Vegetables

• Pair the chicken with roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant for a healthy side option.

How to Perfect Very Greek Grilled Chicken

To make your Very Greek Grilled Chicken truly exceptional, follow these helpful tips.

• Marinate longer: For deeper flavor penetration, marinate the chicken overnight if you can.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and herbs enhance the taste compared to dried alternatives.
• Preheat the grill: Ensure your grill is hot before placing the chicken on it; this helps achieve those perfect grill marks.
• Let it rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This will keep it juicy.
• Check doneness: Use an Instant-Read Meat Thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Best Side Dishes for Very Greek Grilled Chicken

Pairing your Very Greek Grilled Chicken with complementary sides can elevate your meal. Here are some great options.

1. Greek Salad: A mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, onion, olives, and feta cheese dressed in olive oil. Quick and refreshing!
2. Tzatziki Sauce: A yogurt-based sauce made with cucumber and garlic that adds creaminess and tang to your meal.
3. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, these potatoes seasoned with herbs make a hearty side dish.
4. Hummus Platter: Serve hummus alongside pita chips and assorted raw vegetables for a nutritious appetizer or snack.
5. Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and parsley makes a flavorful accompaniment.
6. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus adds color and crunch to complement the grilled chicken beautifully.
7. Feta Cheese Dip: A creamy dip made from feta cheese served with bread or crackers brings extra flavor to your table.
8. Lemon Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with lemon zest and herbs offers a bright contrast to the savory chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Very Greek Grilled Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid to ensure your chicken turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Many people underestimate the importance of marinating. Allowing at least 6 hours for the chicken to soak up flavors ensures a juicy and flavorful result.
• Not Preheating the Grill: Failing to preheat the grill can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your grill to medium-high heat before placing the chicken on it for best results.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it dry. Use an instant-read meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety and juiciness.
• Cutting into Chicken Too Early: Cutting the grilled chicken right after cooking can cause juices to escape, resulting in dryness. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
• Ignoring Crosshatch Marks: Not rotating the chicken while grilling means missing out on those beautiful grill marks and even cooking. Rotate the chicken diagonally halfway through grilling each side.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked Very Greek Grilled Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Very Greek Grilled Chicken

• Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Frozen grilled chicken can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Very Greek Grilled Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes until warm, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water or broth. Add chicken, cover, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until heated through, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Very Greek Grilled Chicken?

Very Greek Grilled Chicken is a flavorful dish that incorporates traditional Mediterranean ingredients like olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, inspired by Greek Chicken Souvlaki.

How long should I marinate Very Greek Grilled Chicken?

For optimal flavor, marinate your chicken for at least 6-8 hours. You can even let it marinate overnight for deeper flavors.

Can I customize the spices in Very Greek Grilled Chicken?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding more herbs or incorporating different spices can give you a unique twist on this dish.

What goes well with Very Greek Grilled Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with salads, rice, or grilled vegetables. You can also serve it in wraps or pita bread for a delicious meal.

Can I grill frozen chicken breasts?

It’s best to thaw frozen chicken before grilling for even cooking. If you’re short on time, you can thaw them quickly under cold running water before marinating.

Final Thoughts

Very Greek Grilled Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. Its rich flavors make it suitable for various meals, from salads to wraps. Plus, you can easily customize ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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Very Greek Grilled Chicken

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Very Greek Grilled Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Greece to your table. This recipe transforms simple chicken breasts into a juicy, flavorful meal through a zesty marinade made with fresh lemon juice, olive oil, and aromatic Greek seasonings. Perfect for family dinners or summer barbecues, this versatile dish can be enjoyed on its own or incorporated into salads, wraps, or served alongside your favorite sides. With its healthy ingredients and ease of preparation, Very Greek Grilled Chicken is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

• Total Time: 31 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp fresh lemon zest
• 1 tsp Greek seasoning
• 1 tsp poultry seasoning
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• black pepper to taste
• fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and prepare it with non-stick spray or light oil.
2. Trim excess fat from the chicken breasts. Optionally, score the chicken for better marinade absorption.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Greek seasoning, poultry seasoning, oregano, and black pepper.
4. Place chicken in a Ziploc bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal tightly and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight for best flavor.
5. Remove chicken from marinade and let it come to room temperature before grilling.
6. Grill chicken for about 4 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
7. Let the chicken rest before slicing and serve or store leftovers.

• Author: Juniper
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 16 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 breast (140g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 70mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: Marinate overnight for enhanced flavors. Use fresh herbs and citrus for the best taste. Allowing the grilled chicken to rest ensures juiciness.