Very Greek Grilled Chicken

Very Greek Grilled Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Greek cuisine to your grill. This recipe closely resembles traditional Greek Chicken Souvlaki but is simplified for easy preparation. Perfect for summer cookouts, family dinners, or meal prep, this grilled chicken is sure to impress. Its fresh marinade made with lemon and herbs infuses the chicken with incredible taste and juiciness, making it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With only a few steps involved, this recipe is straightforward, even for beginners.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of lemon juice, olive oil, and Greek spices creates a zesty and aromatic flavor profile.
• Versatile Usage: Enjoy the chicken on its own, in salads, wraps, or as part of a Mediterranean feast.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this grilled chicken aligns perfectly with healthy eating goals.
• Great for Leftovers: Make extra to enjoy in various dishes throughout the week—it’s delicious cold or reheated!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start grilling your Very Greek Grilled Chicken, ensure you have the right tools ready to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Ziploc bag
• Colander
• Instant-Read Meat Thermometer
• Basting brush (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving those beautiful grill marks and smoky flavor.
• Ziploc bag: Allows for easy marinating without mess; ensures the chicken absorbs all the flavors.
• Instant-Read Meat Thermometer: Guarantees food safety by checking that your chicken reaches 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
• 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 Ingredients

Start by trimming all visible fat and membranes from the chicken breasts.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Create small crosswise slits about 1/2 inch apart down each chicken breast. This will help the marinade penetrate better.
2. Place the chicken in a single layer inside a Ziploc bag.
3. In a bowl, combine olive oil, fresh-squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, Greek Seasoning, Poultry Seasoning, Dried Greek Oregano, and black pepper to create your marinade.
4. Pour the marinade over the chicken in the bag and seal it tightly.
5. Marinate in the refrigerator for 6-8 hours or overnight if possible.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

1. When ready to cook, drain the chicken in a colander and bring it to room temperature if time allows.
2. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat after spraying it with non-stick spray or oil.
3. Place chicken on the grill top side down diagonally across the grates and cook for about 4 minutes until nice grill marks appear.
4. Rotate each piece of chicken diagonally in the opposite direction and grill for another 4 minutes until criss-cross marks form.
5. Flip each piece over and continue grilling for about 4-8 minutes on this side until firm but not hard when pressed.

Step 4: Check Doneness

Use an Instant-Read Meat Thermometer to check that your grilled chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165F/75C.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Consider making extra as leftovers are fantastic on salads or in wraps!

How to Serve Very Greek Grilled Chicken

Very Greek Grilled Chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a satisfying weeknight meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Serve as a Main Dish

• Pair the grilled chicken with a fresh Greek salad for a classic combination.
• Add tzatziki sauce on the side for a creamy, tangy complement.

In Pita Wraps

• Slice the grilled chicken and wrap it in warm pita bread with lettuce, tomatoes, and red onions.
• Drizzle with extra lemon juice or tzatziki for added flavor.

On Top of Salads

• Cut the chicken into strips and toss it over mixed greens for a hearty salad.
• Include feta cheese and olives to enhance the Greek flavor profile.

In Greek Tacos

• Use soft tortillas instead of pita to create Greek-inspired tacos.
• Fill with grilled chicken, diced cucumbers, and shredded carrots for crunch.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Serve alongside roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant.
• A drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice will tie the flavors together beautifully.

How to Perfect Very Greek Grilled Chicken

To achieve perfectly grilled chicken every time, follow these expert tips. They will enhance flavor and ensure juicy results.

• Marinate Longer: Letting the chicken marinate for 8 hours or overnight will deepen the flavors.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before placing the chicken on it. This helps create beautiful grill marks.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Checking for an internal temperature of 165F/75C guarantees safe cooking without drying out the meat.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the grilled chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking keeps it juicy by redistributing juices.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to adjust spices to your taste. Incorporating herbs like rosemary can add complexity.

Best Side Dishes for Very Greek Grilled Chicken

Pairing sides with your Very Greek Grilled Chicken can make your meal even more delightful. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Greek Pasta Salad: A refreshing mix of pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese drizzled with olive oil.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant lightly seasoned and grilled to perfection complement the chicken well.
3. Quinoa Tabbouleh: A healthy alternative made with quinoa instead of bulgur wheat adds protein and texture.
4. Lemon Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with lemon zest and herbs provides a bright contrast to the grilled flavors.
5. Hummus and Pita Chips: A creamy dip paired with crunchy chips makes for an excellent starter or side snack.
6. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with garlic and herbs add heartiness to your meal while balancing out the flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Very Greek Grilled Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are common mistakes to avoid for perfect results.

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Marinating the chicken is crucial for flavor. If you don’t let it sit long enough, the chicken will lack that delicious Greek taste. Aim for at least 6 hours, or overnight if possible.
• Neglecting to Preheat the Grill: A cold grill can lead to uneven cooking and sticking. Always preheat your grill to medium-high before placing the chicken on it.
• Using Cold Chicken: Cooking chicken right from the fridge can result in uneven cooking. Allow your marinated chicken to come to room temperature for more consistent grilling.
• Not Checking Doneness: Relying solely on time can be misleading. Use an Instant-Read Meat Thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165F/75C.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking too long makes chicken dry and tough. Keep a close eye on it, and remove it from the grill as soon as it feels firm but not hard.
• Failing to Save Leftovers: Enjoying leftovers is part of the appeal! Not saving them means missing out on quick meals like salads or stir-fries later on.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the grilled chicken to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Very Greek Grilled Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Very Greek Grilled Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350F (175C), wrap chicken in foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, cover, and warm chicken for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

How should I serve Very Greek Grilled Chicken?

You can serve this dish alongside a Greek salad, tzatziki sauce, or wrapped in pita bread for a delicious meal.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This marinade works well with pork or shrimp too. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the type of meat used.

What can I substitute for lemon juice?

If you’re out of lemon juice, vinegar (like red wine or apple cider) can offer a different but tasty flavor profile in this marinade.

How do I customize Very Greek Grilled Chicken?

Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavors. You can also adjust seasonings according to your taste preferences!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Both marinating and cooking ahead are great options. The flavors improve when allowed to sit overnight before grilling.

Final Thoughts

Very Greek Grilled Chicken is not only flavorful but also versatile enough for various meals. Whether served as a main dish or used in salads and wraps, it’s bound to impress. Feel free to customize with additional herbs or spices based on your preferences. Enjoy trying this recipe!