Very Greek Grilled Chicken

This Very Greek Grilled Chicken recipe brings the vibrant flavors of Greek Chicken Souvlaki right to your grill. Perfect for family dinners, picnics, or casual gatherings, this dish is not just about taste; it’s also quick and easy to prepare. The marinated chicken breasts are juicy and flavorful, making them the star of any meal. Enjoy them on their own or as part of a delicious Mediterranean spread.

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 Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have this delicious chicken ready for the grill in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy this grilled chicken in salads, wraps, or even as a main dish alongside your favorite sides.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make extra to use throughout the week in various dishes—perfect for quick lunches or dinners.
• Healthy Choice: Low in carbs and high in protein, this dish is great for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet while enjoying tasty food.

Tools and Preparation

To get started on your Very Greek Grilled Chicken, gather some essential tools. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Ziploc bag
• Meat thermometer
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A good grill provides even heat for perfect grilling marks and flavor.
• Ziploc bag: This keeps the marinade contained and allows for easy mixing with the chicken.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures your chicken is cooked to a safe temperature without drying it out.

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
• 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

Begin by trimming all visible fat and membranes from the chicken breasts. If you’re new to grilling chicken, consider reading about how to make juicy grilled chicken breasts beforehand.

Step 2: Marinate

Make small crosswise slits about 1/2 inch apart down each chicken breast to help the marinade penetrate better. Place the chicken in a single layer inside a Ziploc bag.

Step 3: Create the Marinade

Combine olive oil, fresh-squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, Greek seasoning, poultry seasoning, dried oregano, and black pepper in a bowl. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the Ziploc bag.

Step 4: Marinate Time

Seal the bag tightly and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 6-8 hours or as long as all day if possible. If you’re short on time, increase the lemon juice slightly.

Step 5: Prepare for Grilling

When ready to cook, dump the chicken and marinade into a colander placed in the sink. Let it drain while allowing it to come to room temperature if you have time.

Step 6: Preheat Your Grill

Spray your grill with non-stick spray or oil before preheating it to medium-high heat—this should be hot enough that you can only hold your hand there for a few seconds.

Step 7: Grill

Place the marinated chicken on the grill top side down diagonally across the grates. Cook for about 4 minutes until you see grill marks when lifting an edge.

Step 8: Rotate

Rotate each piece so they’re diagonal across the other way and cook another 4 minutes until criss-cross grill marks appear.

Step 9: Flip and Finish Cooking

Carefully turn over each piece of chicken and cook about 4-8 minutes on this side until they feel firm but not hard when pressed gently with fingers. Cooking times may vary based on grill temperature and initial chicken temperature.

Step 10: Check Doneness

You can test doneness using an instant-read meat thermometer; grilled chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 11: Serve or Store Leftovers

Even if cooking for just a few people, it’s recommended to make the whole recipe! Leftover Very Greek Grilled Chicken is perfect for salads, tacos, or mixed into stir-fried veggies for quick lunches.

How to Serve Very Greek Grilled Chicken

Serving Very Greek Grilled Chicken is a delightful way to enjoy a taste of Greece right at your dining table. This dish pairs beautifully with various sides and can be used in numerous culinary creations.

Greek Salad

• A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and feta cheese drizzled with olive oil. Perfect for balancing the flavors of the chicken.

Tzatziki Sauce

• A creamy yogurt-based sauce mixed with cucumber, garlic, and herbs. Serve it alongside the grilled chicken for extra flavor.

Pita Bread

• Soft, warm pita bread makes an excellent accompaniment. Use it to wrap pieces of chicken or scoop up tzatziki.

Lemon Rice

• Fluffy rice cooked with lemon juice and zest. This dish perfectly complements the citrus notes in the grilled chicken.

Roasted Vegetables

• Seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant roasted with olive oil and herbs enhance the meal’s overall flavor profile.

Quinoa Salad

• A healthy option packed with protein. Combine quinoa with chopped veggies and a light dressing for a nutritious side dish.

How to Perfect Very Greek Grilled Chicken

To ensure your Very Greek Grilled Chicken is flavorful and juicy, consider these helpful tips:

• Marinate longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for more than 6 hours intensifies its flavor.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and herbs can significantly enhance the taste of your grilled chicken.
• Preheat your grill: Make sure your grill is hot before placing the chicken on it. This helps achieve perfect grill marks.
• Check doneness: Use an Instant-Read Meat Thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165F/75C for safe consumption.
• Let it rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after grilling will keep it juicy and flavorful.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the seasonings or add your favorite spices for a personal touch.

Best Side Dishes for Very Greek Grilled Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Very Greek Grilled Chicken elevates your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Greek Potatoes: Oven-roasted potatoes seasoned with lemon and oregano make a hearty side that complements the chicken’s flavors.
2. Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with olives, tomatoes, and herbs offers a delightful texture contrast.
3. Hummus Platter: Serve hummus with assorted veggies for dipping; it’s a great appetizer that pairs well with grilled dishes.
4. Feta Cheese Dip: Creamy feta spread served on toasted bread provides a rich counterpart to the lighter grilled chicken.
5. Tabbouleh Salad: A refreshing salad made from parsley, bulgur wheat, tomatoes, and lemon adds brightness to your plate.
6. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus spears grilled until tender create a perfect match for Very Greek Grilled Chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Very Greek Grilled Chicken, avoiding common mistakes can greatly enhance your results. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Skipping the marinade time: Marinating for less than 6 hours can result in bland chicken. Always allow for a longer marination to let the flavors penetrate the meat.
• Not using a meat thermometer: Relying solely on cooking time may lead to undercooked or overcooked chicken. Use an instant-read meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165F/75C for safety.
• Overcrowding the grill: Placing too many pieces of chicken at once can lower the grill temperature. Grill in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect char and flavor.
• Neglecting to trim the chicken: Cooking with excess fat or membranes can lead to uneven cooking. Always trim visible fat from chicken breasts before marinating.
• Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after grilling can cause juices to escape, resulting in dry meat. Allow the grilled chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked Very Greek Grilled Chicken in an airtight container.
• It lasts up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure it’s cooled down completely before sealing the container.

Freezing Very Greek Grilled Chicken

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.
• Label the bag with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Very Greek Grilled Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking often.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water or broth. Add chicken and cover. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Very Greek Grilled Chicken?

Very Greek Grilled Chicken is a flavorful dish inspired by Greek Chicken Souvlaki, made with marinated grilled chicken breasts that capture vibrant Mediterranean flavors.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier option. Just adjust cooking times as needed since thighs may take slightly longer to cook through.

How do I customize Very Greek Grilled Chicken?

Feel free to add different herbs or spices based on your taste preferences. You can also incorporate additional ingredients like garlic or yogurt into the marinade for extra flavor.

What sides pair well with Very Greek Grilled Chicken?

This dish complements many sides such as Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or rice pilaf. Try serving it with tzatziki sauce for an authentic experience!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! You can marinate the chicken a day ahead and grill it just before serving. Leftovers also stay delicious when stored properly.

Final Thoughts

Very Greek Grilled Chicken is not just tasty; it’s also versatile and easy to prepare. Its rich flavors make it perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a quick weeknight dinner. Feel free to customize it with your favorite seasonings or serve alongside your choice of sides for endless meal possibilities!