Very Greek Grilled Chicken

This Very Greek Grilled Chicken recipe captures the vibrant flavors of Greek cuisine right on your grill. Perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or meal prep, this dish offers tender chicken marinated in a blend of zesty lemon and aromatic spices. The result is juicy, flavorful chicken that everyone will love, making it an ideal choice for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of lemon juice, olive oil, and Greek seasonings creates a mouthwatering marinade that infuses the chicken with rich flavors.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Uses: Enjoy the grilled chicken on its own or use it in salads, tacos, or stir-fries for a quick and tasty meal.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this grilled chicken fits well into many diet plans including Keto and Paleo.
• Make Ahead Option: Marinate the chicken the night before for a hassle-free grilling experience that saves you time.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Very Greek Grilled Chicken, gather essential tools to make the process easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Ziploc bag: Keeps the chicken fully submerged in marinade for even flavor distribution.
• Grill: Provides that perfect char and smoky flavor that enhances the overall dish.
• Instant-Read Meat Thermometer: Ensures your chicken is cooked safely while remaining juicy.

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 for Grilling

If you’re not that experienced grilling chicken, you might want to read How to Make Juicy Grilled Chicken Breasts before you make this.

Step 2: Trim Chicken Breasts

Trim all visible fat and membranes from chicken breasts to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Score the Chicken

I like to make small crosswise slits about 1/2 inch apart down the length of each chicken breast to help the marinade penetrate the meat.

Step 4: Marinate the Chicken

Put chicken in a single layer in a Ziploc bag. Combine olive oil, fresh-squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, Greek Seasoning, Poultry Seasoning, Dried Greek Oregano, and black pepper to create the marinade. Pour over chicken.

Step 5: Refrigerate

Marinate chicken in refrigerator for 6-8 hours or all day if desired. If you don’t have at least 6 hours to marinate, I recommend increasing the lemon juice slightly.

Step 6: Drain and Prepare Grill

When you’re ready to cook, dump chicken and marinade into a colander placed in the sink and let it drain. Allow it to come to room temperature if time permits.

Step 7: Preheat Grill

Spray the grill with non-stick spray or oil; then preheat it to medium-high heat (you can only hold your hand there a few seconds at that heat).

Step 8: Grill First Side

Put chicken on grill top side down on a diagonal to grill grates and cook about 4 minutes or until you see grill marks when you lift up an edge.

Step 9: Rotate for Criss-Cross Marks

Rotate chicken pieces so they’re going on a diagonal in the other direction and cook about 4 minutes more until criss-cross grill marks appear.

Step 10: Cook Other Side

Turn chicken over and cook about 4-8 minutes on this side until it feels firm but not hard when pressed with fingers. Cooking times may vary depending on initial temperature of chicken and grill heat.

Step 11: Check Doneness

You can test doneness with an Instant-Read Meat Thermometer if available. Grilled Chicken should have an internal temperature of 165F/75C for safety.

Step 12: Serve or Store Leftovers

Even if you’re only cooking for a few people I recommend making the whole recipe. The leftover Grilled Greek Chicken is excellent cut up on salads, in Greek tacos, or mixed into stir-fried veggies for quick lunches.

How to Serve Very Greek Grilled Chicken

Very Greek Grilled Chicken is a versatile dish that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or preparing a family dinner, there are numerous ways to serve this delicious grilled chicken to impress your guests.

On a Fresh Salad

• Top mixed greens with sliced Very Greek Grilled Chicken for a refreshing salad. Add feta cheese, olives, and a light vinaigrette for an authentic Greek touch.

In Pita Bread

• Stuff warm pita bread with sliced chicken, tomatoes, cucumbers, and tzatziki sauce. This makes for a quick and easy lunch or snack.

With Quinoa or Rice

• Serve the grilled chicken over fluffy quinoa or rice. Drizzle with extra lemon juice and olive oil for added flavor.

As Part of a Platter

• Create a Mediterranean platter by serving Very Greek Grilled Chicken alongside hummus, baba ghanoush, and pita chips. This is perfect for entertaining guests.

In Wraps

• Wrap the grilled chicken with fresh vegetables and sauces in a tortilla for a delicious on-the-go meal.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Pair the chicken with seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant. The flavors complement each other beautifully.

How to Perfect Very Greek Grilled Chicken

To ensure your Very Greek Grilled Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate Longer: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken overnight instead of just 6-8 hours.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality olive oil enhance the taste significantly.
• Monitor Grill Temperature: Preheat your grill properly; medium-high heat is ideal for achieving those beautiful grill marks.
• Let it Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes after grilling before slicing. This helps retain moisture.
• Check Doneness: Use an instant-read meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165F/75C.
• Experiment with Seasoning: Feel free to tweak the spices based on your taste preferences or try adding garlic powder for an extra kick.

Best Side Dishes for Very Greek Grilled Chicken

Pairing sides with Very Greek Grilled Chicken can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement its flavors well.

1. Greek Tzatziki Sauce: A cool yogurt-based dip made with cucumbers and garlic that pairs perfectly with grilled meats.
2. Hellenic Greek Salad: A vibrant mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, olives, and feta cheese dressed in olive oil.
3. Lemon Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice infused with lemon juice and zest enhances the dish’s Greek essence.
4. Roasted Potatoes with Oregano: Crispy potatoes seasoned with herbs make a hearty side dish that holds up well against grilled chicken.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers drizzled with olive oil add color and nutrients to your plate.
6. Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad tossed in vinaigrette can provide a satisfying contrast to the grilled chicken’s bold flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Very Greek Grilled Chicken, some common mistakes can impact the flavor and texture. Avoid these pitfalls for a perfect dish.

• Not Marinating Long Enough: Skipping or shortening the marinating time can lead to bland chicken. Always aim for at least 6 hours, or overnight if possible.
• Skipping the Slits: Failing to make small slits in the chicken can prevent the marinade from penetrating well. This step is crucial for enhancing flavor.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can result in dryness. Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165F/75C.
• Using a Cold Grill: Placing chicken on a cold grill can cause sticking and uneven cooking. Preheat your grill to medium-high before adding the chicken.
• Ignoring Leftovers: Not saving leftover Very Greek Grilled Chicken is a missed opportunity. Use leftovers creatively in salads or wraps for quick meals.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked Very Greek Grilled Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Very Greek Grilled Chicken

• Freeze cooked chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Very Greek Grilled Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover with a lid, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes per piece, checking regularly.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth and cover, reheating for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Very Greek Grilled Chicken more flavorful?

To enhance flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill to your marinade. You can also try different spices based on your preference.

Can I use boneless thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Boneless thighs will work well in this recipe and will offer a slightly different flavor profile while remaining juicy when grilled.

What sides pair well with Very Greek Grilled Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with Greek salad, tzatziki sauce, or roasted vegetables. You could also serve it with pita bread for a complete meal.

Is Very Greek Grilled Chicken suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This grilled chicken is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and can be used in various dishes throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Very Greek Grilled Chicken is not only packed with flavor but also versatile enough to fit into different meals. Whether enjoyed fresh off the grill or used later in salads or wraps, this recipe offers plenty of customization options. Experiment with your favorite herbs and sides to make it your own!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Very Greek Grilled Chicken

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8

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Description

Very Greek Grilled Chicken is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that brings the essence of Greek cuisine to your grilling experience. Perfect for summer gatherings or weeknight dinners, this recipe features juicy chicken breasts marinated in a delightful blend of zesty lemon juice, aromatic herbs, and premium olive oil. The result is tender meat with a smoky char that will impress family and friends alike. Whether served on its own, tossed in salads, or wrapped in pita bread with fresh veggies, this grilled chicken is not only delicious but also versatile and healthy.

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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.
2. Score the chicken with small crosswise slits.
3. In a Ziploc bag, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Greek seasoning, poultry seasoning, oregano, and black pepper.
4. Add chicken to the bag; seal and refrigerate for 6-8 hours (or overnight).
5. Drain marinade and bring chicken to room temperature.
6. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
7. Grill chicken for about 4 minutes per side until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165F/75C).
8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
• Calories: 332
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 70mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 100mg