Very Greek Grilled Chicken

This Very Greek Grilled Chicken recipe is your ticket to a delightful culinary experience. Bursting with the vibrant flavors of Greek Chicken Souvlaki, this simple yet delicious dish is perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or meal prep for the week ahead. With its juicy texture and zesty marinade, it’s sure to impress everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few steps, you can whip up a flavorful meal that requires minimal effort.
• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of olive oil, lemon juice, and spices infuses the chicken with a deliciously tangy taste.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy this grilled chicken in salads, wraps, or as a main course with your favorite sides.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this dish is great for those watching their diet.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make extra and use leftovers in various dishes throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making this Very Greek Grilled Chicken, gather the necessary tools. Proper equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Ziploc bag
• Colander
• Instant-Read Meat Thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides that perfect char and smoky flavor that enhances the chicken’s natural taste.
• Ziploc bag: Ideal for marinating the chicken evenly while minimizing mess.
• Colander: Helps drain excess marinade and allows chicken to reach room temperature before grilling.
• Instant-Read Meat Thermometer: Ensures your chicken is cooked to the safe internal temperature of 165F/75C.

Ingredients

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

Main Ingredients

• 8 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 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 the Chicken

• If you’re not experienced at grilling chicken, consider reading about how to make juicy grilled chicken breasts before starting.
• Trim all visible fat and membranes from each chicken breast.
• Make small crosswise slits about 1/2 inch apart down the length of each breast to help the marinade soak through.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

• Place the chicken in a single layer inside a Ziploc bag.
• In a bowl, mix together olive oil, fresh-squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, Greek seasoning, poultry seasoning, dried oregano, and black pepper.
• Pour this marinade over the chicken in the bag and seal it tightly. Shake gently to coat.
• Marinate in the refrigerator for 6-8 hours or all day if possible.

Step 3: Prepare for Grilling

• When ready to cook, dump the chicken and marinade into a colander placed in the sink to drain excess liquid. Allow it to reach room temperature if you have time.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

• Spray your grill with non-stick spray or oil; then preheat it to medium-high heat.
• Place chicken on grill top side down on a diagonal to grill grates. Cook for about 4 minutes until you see grill marks when lifting an edge.

Step 5: Create Perfect Grill Marks

• Rotate chicken pieces diagonally again on the grill. Cook for another 4 minutes until criss-cross grill marks appear.

Step 6: Finish Cooking

• Turn the chicken over and cook for an additional 4-8 minutes on this side until firm but not hard when pressed gently.

Step 7: Check Doneness

• Use an Instant-Read Meat Thermometer to check that your grilled chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165F/75C.

Step 8: Serve

Even if you’re cooking for just a few people, consider making the entire recipe. Leftover Very Greek Grilled Chicken is perfect atop salads or mixed into stir-fried veggies for quick lunches!

How to Serve Very Greek Grilled Chicken

Very Greek Grilled Chicken is versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you are hosting a barbecue or enjoying a casual dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

On a Salad

• Greek Salad: Top mixed greens with feta, olives, and tomatoes for a refreshing dish.
• Caesar Salad: Add grilled chicken to romaine lettuce and toss with Caesar dressing for a hearty option.

In Tacos

• Greek Chicken Tacos: Use soft tortillas filled with grilled chicken, tzatziki sauce, and fresh veggies for a unique twist.
• Pita Wraps: Fill pita bread with sliced chicken, cucumber, and lettuce for an easy handheld meal.

With Dips

• Tzatziki Sauce: Serve alongside this yogurt-based sauce for a cooling complement to the grilled flavors.
• Hummus: Pair with hummus for a protein-packed appetizer or snack.

As Leftovers

• Chicken Stir-Fry: Incorporate leftover chicken into stir-fried vegetables for a quick lunch option.
• Grilled Chicken Pasta: Toss leftover chicken with pasta and olive oil for an effortless dinner.

How to Perfect Very Greek Grilled Chicken

To ensure your Very Greek Grilled Chicken is always delicious, follow these helpful tips.

• Bold Marinade Time: Marinate the chicken for at least 6 hours to let the flavors penetrate deeply.
• Bold Temperature Check: Use an Instant-Read Meat Thermometer to check that your chicken reaches 165F/75C for safe consumption.
• Bold Grill Preheating: Always preheat your grill to medium-high before cooking to achieve perfect grill marks.
• Bold Let It Rest: Allow the grilled chicken to rest for a few minutes after grilling; this helps retain juices.
• Bold Crosshatch Marks: Rotate the chicken on the grill to create attractive crosshatch marks while cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Very Greek Grilled Chicken

Pairing sides with Very Greek Grilled Chicken enhances its Mediterranean flavors. Here are some excellent options to complement your meal.

1. Tzatziki Sauce: A cool yogurt-cucumber dip that complements the spices in the chicken beautifully.
2. Greek Orzo Salad: A refreshing salad made with orzo pasta, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese that adds color and flavor.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized make for a tasty side dish that balances out the meal.
4. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf mixed with herbs provides a nutritious base that pairs perfectly with grilled chicken.
5. Tabbouleh: A Middle Eastern salad made from bulgur wheat, parsley, tomatoes, and mint offers fresh flavors alongside the chicken.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter is ideal for summer grilling and adds sweetness to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling chicken can be tricky, but avoiding these common mistakes will help you achieve the best Very Greek Grilled Chicken.

• Not Marinating Long Enough: Marinating the chicken for at least 6 hours enhances the flavor. If you’re short on time, increase the lemon juice for a quicker impact.

• Skipping the Slits: Failing to make small slits in the chicken can prevent the marinade from penetrating effectively. This step ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.

• Grilling on Too Low Heat: Cooking at low temperatures can lead to rubbery chicken. Preheat your grill to medium-high for perfect grill marks and juicy results.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Using an Instant-Read Meat Thermometer is crucial. Aim for an internal temperature of 165F/75C to avoid dry chicken while ensuring it’s safe to eat.

• Not Using Leftovers Creatively: Many people overlook leftover grilled chicken. Consider using it in salads, tacos, or stir-fries for a quick and delicious meal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Very Greek Grilled Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Very Greek Grilled Chicken

• Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer bag.
• The grilled chicken can be frozen 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 until warmed through.

• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover with a lid or microwave-safe wrap. Heat on medium power in 1-minute increments until hot.

• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a bit of olive oil if desired and warm the chicken for about 5 minutes per side, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I marinate Very Greek Grilled Chicken?

Marinate the chicken for at least 6 hours or overnight for maximum flavor infusion.

What if I don’t have Greek seasoning?

You can create your own blend using dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and lemon zest as substitutes for Greek seasoning.

Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use skin-on chicken breast; just adjust the cooking time as it may take longer to cook through properly.

What sides pair well with Very Greek Grilled Chicken?

Serve it with a refreshing Greek salad, tzatziki sauce, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

The Very Greek Grilled Chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its bold flavors make it perfect for various meals throughout the week. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite spices or serving it with different sides. Give this recipe a try and transform your grilling game!

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Very Greek Grilled Chicken

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x

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Description

Experience the vibrant flavors of Greece with this Very Greek Grilled Chicken recipe. Marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and aromatic spices, this dish delivers juicy, succulent chicken that’s perfect for summer grilling or meal prep. Whether served over a fresh Greek salad, tucked into pita wraps, or enjoyed as leftovers in stir-fries, this versatile chicken is sure to impress family and friends alike. With its straightforward preparation and healthy ingredients, you’ll be reaching for this recipe time and time again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/3 cup fresh-squeezed 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

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Instructions

1. Trim visible fat from chicken breasts and make small slits on each side.
2. Combine olive oil, lemon juice, zest, seasonings, and black pepper in a bowl.
3. Place chicken in a Ziploc bag, pour marinade over it, seal tightly, and refrigerate for 6-8 hours.
4. Drain excess marinade before grilling; allow chicken to reach room temperature.
5. Preheat grill to medium-high heat and grill chicken for about 4 minutes per side until marked and cooked through (internal temperature of 165F/75C).
6. Let rest briefly before serving.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 75mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg