Very Greek Grilled Chicken

Very Greek Grilled Chicken is a delightful dish bursting with the vibrant flavors of Greece. This recipe transforms simple chicken breasts into a succulent meal reminiscent of traditional Greek Chicken Souvlaki. Perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or weeknight dinners, this dish is both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. The marinated chicken results in a juicy and flavorful experience that will leave your guests asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of olive oil, lemon juice, and Greek seasonings creates a zesty marinade that infuses the chicken with rich flavors.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and minimal preparation, even novice cooks can master this recipe.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as the main dish, slice it for salads, or use it in wraps—this chicken adapts to any meal.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this recipe fits well into various dietary plans.
• Leftover Friendly: Great for meal prep, leftovers can be enjoyed in multiple ways throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking Very Greek Grilled Chicken, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Ziploc bag
• Colander
• Meat thermometer
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides that perfect charred flavor and grill marks that enhance the dish’s appeal.
• Ziploc bag: Ideal for marinating the chicken evenly without mess.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures your chicken is cooked safely to an internal temperature of 165F/75C.

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

First, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. To ensure a non-stick surface, spray it with non-stick spray or oil.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Trim all visible fat and membranes from each chicken breast.
2. Make small crosswise slits 1/2 inch apart down the length of each breast for better marinade absorption.
3. Place the chicken in a Ziploc bag and set aside.
4. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Greek seasoning, poultry seasoning, dried oregano, and black pepper to create your marinade.
5. Pour the marinade over the chicken in the Ziploc bag. Seal it tightly and refrigerate for 6-8 hours or overnight for enhanced flavor.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

1. After marinating, remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes.
2. Drain excess marinade using a colander placed in your sink.
3. Once heated properly, place chicken on the grill top side down at an angle to create grill marks; cook for about 4 minutes.
4. Rotate the pieces diagonally in another direction and grill for another 4 minutes until criss-cross grill marks appear.
5. Flip each piece over and cook for an additional 4-8 minutes until firm but not hard; check doneness using an instant-read meat thermometer.

Enjoy this delicious Very Greek Grilled Chicken hot off the grill!

How to Serve Very Greek Grilled Chicken

Very Greek Grilled Chicken is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a quiet dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

As a Main Dish

• Serve the grilled chicken as the centerpiece of your meal, accompanied by a fresh Greek salad for a refreshing contrast.

In a Wrap

• Slice the chicken and wrap it in pita bread with tzatziki sauce, diced tomatoes, and lettuce for a delicious Greek-inspired sandwich.

Over Salad

• Chop the grilled chicken and place it over mixed greens with feta cheese, olives, and a lemon vinaigrette for a light lunch.

With Rice or Quinoa

• Pair the chicken with fluffy rice or quinoa seasoned with herbs for a hearty side that complements the flavors of Greece.

In Tacos

• Use the grilled chicken in soft tacos topped with avocado, salsa, and cilantro for an exciting twist on traditional tacos.

On Skewers

• Cut into cubes and thread onto skewers with vegetables like bell peppers and onions for colorful grilled kebabs.

How to Perfect Very Greek Grilled Chicken

Perfecting Very Greek Grilled Chicken ensures juicy, flavorful results every time. Follow these tips to enhance your grilling technique.

• Marinate Longer: For even more flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight. The longer it sits, the more delicious it becomes.

• Preheat Your Grill: Always preheat your grill to medium-high heat before cooking. This helps achieve those perfect grill marks and keeps the chicken juicy.

• Use a Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer is essential. Make sure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165F/75C for safe eating.

• Let It Rest: After grilling, allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This lets the juices redistribute for maximum flavor.

• Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to try different spices or marinades based on your taste preferences. Customizing can lead to delightful variations!

• Keep an Eye on Cooking Time: Chicken thickness can vary; always monitor cooking time closely to avoid overcooking. Thicker pieces may need additional time.

Best Side Dishes for Very Greek Grilled Chicken

Choosing the right side dishes can enhance your Very Greek Grilled Chicken experience. Here are some great options:

1. Greek Salad: A mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta cheese dressed in olive oil makes a refreshing accompaniment.
2. Tzatziki Sauce: This yogurt-based dip adds coolness and flavor; serve on the side or drizzled over the chicken.
3. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned with olive oil and herbs, these crispy potatoes are irresistible next to grilled chicken.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant tossed in olive oil and grilled until tender complement the main dish beautifully.
5. Hummus Platter: A selection of hummus served with warm pita bread provides a savory start to your meal.
6. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with broth and herbs serves as a hearty base that pairs well with grilled flavors.
7. Mediterranean Couscous: This dish combines couscous with vegetables and herbs for a light yet satisfying side option.
8. Tabbouleh Salad: A parsley-based salad with bulgur wheat brings freshness and brightness to balance out richer flavors of the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Very Greek Grilled Chicken, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the Marinade: Marinating the chicken enhances flavor and tenderness. Don’t rush this step; aim for at least 6 hours for the best results.

• Not Preheating the Grill: A properly heated grill ensures nice grill marks and prevents sticking. Always preheat your grill to medium-high before adding the chicken.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken can become dry if overcooked. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness, aiming for an internal temperature of 165F/75C.

• Using Low-Quality Olive Oil: The quality of olive oil affects flavor. Always choose extra virgin olive oil for marinating your chicken.

• Neglecting to Trim Fat: Removing excess fat helps the chicken cook evenly and reduces flare-ups on the grill. Take time to trim visible fat from the chicken breasts before grilling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Allow chicken to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Very Greek Grilled Chicken

• Place in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label with date and contents for easy identification later.

Reheating Very Greek Grilled Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350F (175C). Place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and warm the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other cuts of chicken for Very Greek Grilled Chicken?

Yes, you can use thighs or drumsticks, but cooking times will vary. Ensure they also reach an internal temperature of 165F/75C.

What should I serve with Very Greek Grilled Chicken?

Pair it with a fresh Greek salad, tzatziki sauce, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal that captures the essence of Greek cuisine.

How can I customize my Very Greek Grilled Chicken?

Feel free to add spices like paprika or garlic powder to the marinade. You can also experiment with different herbs such as thyme or rosemary.

Is Very Greek Grilled Chicken suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prepping throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Very Greek Grilled Chicken is not only flavorful but also versatile enough to adapt to your tastes. Whether served on salads, in tacos, or alongside vegetables, it’s bound to be a hit. Don’t hesitate to customize it by adding your favorite herbs and spices — you’ll find endless ways to enjoy this delicious recipe!