There’s just something magical about juicy grilled chicken, especially when it’s infused with Mediterranean herbs! The combination of oregano, thyme, and a splash of lemon gives this dish a bright, aromatic flavor that transports you straight to a sun-drenched terrace overlooking the sea. I love how the marination process not only enhances the taste but also makes the chicken incredibly tender and moist. Trust me, every bite is a burst of delightful flavors that will have your taste buds dancing with joy! Whether it’s a summer BBQ or a cozy family dinner, this juicy grilled chicken Mediterranean herbs recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen. So, let’s get cooking!
Ingredients List
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Juice of 1 fresh lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
How to Prepare Juicy Grilled Chicken Mediterranean Herbs
Preparing this juicy grilled chicken Mediterranean herbs is a breeze, and you’ll be amazed at the delicious results! Start by marinating the chicken, which is the secret to infusing it with all those incredible flavors. It’s super easy: just mix together all the marinade ingredients in a bowl, and let the chicken soak up those tasty Mediterranean herbs for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, letting it marinate for a few hours or even overnight will take the flavor to the next level! Trust me, it’s worth the wait.
Marinating the Chicken
To marinate the chicken, simply place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Make sure each piece is well-coated. Then, seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the fridge. This process not only enhances the flavor but also helps in keeping the chicken tender and juicy when grilled. You’ll love the aroma that fills your kitchen!
Grilling Instructions
Once your chicken has marinated, it’s time to fire up the grill! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat – this is crucial for that perfect sear. Carefully place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill and let them cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side. You’ll know it’s time to flip them when they release easily from the grill. After flipping, grill for another 6-7 minutes. To ensure they’re cooked through, you can use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite so much more succulent!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about what’s in this delicious juicy grilled chicken Mediterranean herbs! Each serving, which is one chicken breast, contains approximately 220 calories, 10g of fat, 30g of protein, and 0g of carbohydrates. Plus, it has 600mg of sodium and just a touch of saturated fat at 1.5g. Remember, these values are estimates based on typical ingredients, but they give you a good idea of the nutritious goodness packed into this flavorful dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Bold Mediterranean flavors that will impress your family and friends.
- Healthy and high in protein, making it a satisfying meal.
- Versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various sides.
- One recipe, endless possibilities for customization!
Tips for Success
To make sure your juicy grilled chicken Mediterranean herbs turns out absolutely perfect, here are some of my favorite tips! First off, don’t skip the marinating time—30 minutes is a must, but a few hours or overnight is even better for maximum flavor. Also, feel free to adjust the herbs to your liking; if you love a more robust flavor, throw in some fresh herbs like basil or parsley! Always preheat your grill for at least 10-15 minutes before cooking; this helps create those beautiful grill marks and locks in moisture. Lastly, let the chicken rest after grilling; this step is key for juicy, tender bites. Trust me, these little tweaks make a big difference!
Variations
If you want to mix things up, there are so many fun variations for this juicy grilled chicken Mediterranean herbs! Try swapping out the oregano and thyme for fresh rosemary or tarragon for a different flavor twist. You can also add some sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or red onions to the grill alongside the chicken for a delicious veggie medley. Another idea? Marinate the chicken with a splash of balsamic vinegar for a sweeter note. The possibilities are endless, so get creative!
Serving Suggestions
This juicy grilled chicken Mediterranean herbs pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides that bring out its vibrant flavors! I love serving it alongside a refreshing Greek salad, complete with crisp cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese. You could also go for a light quinoa tabbouleh salad for an extra burst of freshness. If you’re in the mood for something warm, roasted vegetables or a bed of fluffy couscous drizzled with olive oil make perfect companions. Whatever you choose, your meal will be a delightful celebration of Mediterranean goodness!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To store any leftover juicy grilled chicken Mediterranean herbs, simply place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, the best way to reheat is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps keep the chicken juicy and delicious. You can also use a microwave, but be careful not to overheat, or it might dry out!
For more delicious recipes, check out this Mediterranean chicken marinade for a flavorful twist!
Also, if you’re interested in healthy meal options, you can explore healthy cheesecake recipes that are both satisfying and nutritious.
Print
Juicy Grilled Chicken Mediterranean Herbs: 7 Flavorful Tips
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This juicy grilled chicken is infused with Mediterranean herbs for a flavorful meal.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
- Marinate the chicken breasts in the mixture for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Adjust herbs to your taste.
- Serve with a side of vegetables or salad.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: juicy grilled chicken, Mediterranean herbs, grilled chicken recipe