Very Greek Grilled Chicken

This Very Greek Grilled Chicken offers the vibrant flavors of Greek Chicken Souvlaki in a succulent grilled chicken breast. Perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or meal prep, this dish is both flavorful and easy to make. You’ll love how the marinade infuses the chicken with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, making it a standout dish on any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: The simple marinade requires minimal effort and ingredients.
• Flavorful: Fresh lemon juice and Greek spices create a deliciously tangy and savory profile.
• Versatile: Use leftover chicken in salads, tacos, or stir-fries for quick meals throughout the week.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and low in carbs, it’s a nutritious choice for any meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress guests at gatherings with its bold flavors.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Ziploc bag
• Mixing bowl
• Colander
• Instant-read meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving those beautiful grill marks and smoky flavor.
• Ziploc bag: Makes marinating easy by allowing the chicken to soak up all the flavors without mess.
• Instant-read meat thermometer: Ensures your chicken is cooked perfectly every time, avoiding dryness.

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

How to Make Very Greek Grilled Chicken

Step 1: Prepare for Grilling

1. If you’re not that experienced grilling chicken, you might want to read How to Make Juicy Grilled Chicken Breasts before you make this.
2. Trim all visible fat and membranes from the chicken breasts.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Make small crosswise slits about 1/2 inch apart down the length of each chicken breast to help the marinade penetrate.
2. Place the chicken in a single layer in a Ziploc bag.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, fresh-squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, Greek Seasoning, poultry seasoning, dried oregano, and black pepper.
4. Pour the marinade over the chicken in the Ziploc bag.
5. Seal and marinate in the refrigerator for 6-8 hours or up to all day if desired.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

1. When ready to cook, dump chicken and marinade into a colander placed in the sink; let it drain and come to room temperature if possible.
2. Spray your grill with non-stick spray or oil; preheat it to medium-high heat.
3. Place chicken on grill top side down on a diagonal to grill grates; cook for about 4 minutes or until grill marks appear when lifting edges.
4. Rotate chicken pieces diagonally opposite; cook for another 4 minutes until criss-cross marks form.
5. Flip chicken over; cook for about 4-8 minutes on this side until firm but not hard when pressed.
6. Use an Instant-Read Meat Thermometer to check doneness; grilled chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165F/75C.

Step 4: Serve

Even if you’re only cooking for a few people I recommend making the whole recipe. The leftover Grilled Greek Chicken is great to cut up on top of a salad, in Greek tacos, or mixed into some stir-fried veggies for a quick lunch.

Enjoy your Very Greek Grilled Chicken!

How to Serve Very Greek Grilled Chicken

Very Greek Grilled Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and toppings. Whether you want a light meal or a hearty feast, here are some delicious serving suggestions.

Greek Salad

• A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese dressed in olive oil and lemon juice. It adds a crisp contrast to the grilled chicken.

Tzatziki Sauce

• This cool and creamy yogurt-based sauce with cucumber and garlic enhances the flavors of the chicken. It’s perfect as a dipping sauce or dolloped on top.

Pita Bread

• Soft and warm pita bread is ideal for wrapping pieces of chicken along with veggies and sauces for a quick meal on the go.

Quinoa Tabouli

• A healthy salad made with quinoa, parsley, tomatoes, and lemon juice. It’s light yet filling, making it an excellent accompaniment to the grilled chicken.

Roasted Vegetables

• Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant roasted with olive oil complement the smoky flavors of the chicken beautifully.

Greek Couscous

• Fluffy couscous tossed with olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs makes for a delightful side that pairs well with the Mediterranean flavors of the dish.

How to Perfect Very Greek Grilled Chicken

To make sure your Very Greek Grilled Chicken turns out juicy and flavorful every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 6-8 hours will enhance its flavor. If you can marinate overnight, even better!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and herbs provide vibrant flavors. Avoid bottled juices when possible for the best taste.

• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before placing the chicken on it. This creates beautiful grill marks and helps seal in moisture.

• Let it Rest: After grilling, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juices for a more tender bite.

• Check Temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Best Side Dishes for Very Greek Grilled Chicken

Pairing your Very Greek Grilled Chicken with complementary sides can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Greek Potatoes: Roasted potatoes seasoned with garlic and lemon make a great side dish that ties in beautifully with the flavors of Greece.

2. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed salad featuring chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley drizzled with olive oil.

3. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa mixed with herbs add color and flavor to your plate while being filling too.

4. Spinach Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with fresh spinach and herbs provides a light yet satisfying accompaniment that complements grilled chicken well.

5. Feta Cheese Dip: A creamy dip made from feta cheese blended with olive oil, garlic, and herbs is perfect for dipping pita bread or drizzling over grilled vegetables.

6. Cucumber Mint Salad: A refreshing salad that combines cucumber slices with mint leaves in a light vinegar dressing works well as a palate cleanser alongside rich grilled meat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling chicken can be straightforward, but there are a few common errors that can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Neglecting the marinade time: Skipping or shortening the marinating time can lead to bland chicken. Always allow at least 6 hours for the flavors to penetrate.
• Using untrimmed chicken breasts: Cooking with excess fat or membranes can cause uneven cooking. Trim all visible fat for better results.
• Not preheating the grill: A cold grill can cause sticking and uneven cooking. Make sure to preheat your grill to medium-high before adding the chicken.
• Ignoring grill marks: Failing to rotate the chicken for cross-hatch grill marks may affect presentation. Rotate after a few minutes for those lovely criss-cross patterns.
• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken can be dry and tough. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure it reaches 165F/75C without going over.
• Skipping leftovers: Not utilizing leftover grilled chicken means missing out on delicious meal options. Consider using it in salads, tacos, or stir-fries.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Very Greek Grilled Chicken

• Place cooled grilled chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Very Greek Grilled Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat on medium power in short bursts until heated through, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of broth or water. Cook covered until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions people have about making Very Greek Grilled Chicken.

What is Very Greek Grilled Chicken?

Very Greek Grilled Chicken is a flavorful dish made by marinating chicken breasts in a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, herbs, and spices before grilling them to perfection.

How long should I marinate Very Greek Grilled Chicken?

Marinating for at least 6 hours is recommended for optimal flavor absorption. You can also marinate it overnight for even better results.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! While this recipe uses chicken, you can easily substitute turkey or lamb if you prefer different meats.

How do I know when my Very Greek Grilled Chicken is done?

The safest way is to use an instant-read thermometer; your chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Can I customize the marinade?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the spices and herbs according to your taste preferences—add more garlic or try different seasonings!

Final Thoughts

This Very Greek Grilled Chicken is not only bursting with flavor but also versatile enough for various meals. Whether served over salad, tucked into tacos, or reheated as leftovers, it promises satisfaction every time. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe with your favorite herbs and spices!