Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Breasts Recipe
Yes! Serve the chicken with whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, or farro to add more substance and fiber to your meal.
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 35 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4
Calories 233 kcal
- 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breast fillets
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian oregano
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 3 garlic cloves minced or crushed
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by combining the marinade ingredients in a medium-sized bowl. Add the lemon juice, olive oil, honey, garlic, oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk them together until well blended.
The aroma will instantly transport you to a sunlit terrace overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Don’t be shy—give the marinade a taste! Adjust any components to your liking; perhaps a bit more garlic or a pinch of extra salt.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each breast is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate.
Aim for at least 30 minutes, but if you have more time, let it marinate for up to 4 hours. The longer the chicken sits in the marinade, the more flavor it absorbs.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
While the chicken marinates, it’s time to get your grill ready. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. A well-heated grill helps to achieve those lovely grill marks while sealing in juices. If you're using a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are gray and glowing before cooking.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Once the grill is hot, remove the chicken breasts from the marinade. Discard the leftover marinade; it has done its job!
Place the chicken on the grill and close the lid. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on one side, flip, and grill for another 6-7 minutes on the other side. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 5: Rest the Chicken
After grilling, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is juicy. While it sits, you can slice your veggies or prepare your side dishes.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and ingredients yield the best flavor. Check your local farmers' market for seasonal produce.
- Don't Skip the Marinade Time: Allowing the chicken to marinate longer enhances the flavor. Plan ahead if you can!
- Grill Temperature Matters: A grill that’s not hot enough will dry out the chicken. Always preheat!
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through. Avoid guesswork!
- Experiment with Sides: This chicken pairs well with various sides. Try pairing it with a refreshing Greek salad or seasoned quinoa for a complete meal.
Serving: 60gCalories: 233kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 1gFat: 22.8gSaturated Fat: 3.2gSodium: 393mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1g
Keyword Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Breasts Recipe