Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Breasts
User Reviews
4.8
-
Prep Time
20 mins
-
Cook Time
15 mins
-
Total Time
35 mins
-
Servings
4 people
-
Calories
459 kcal
-
Course
Main Course
-
Cuisine
American
Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Breasts
Description
The Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Breasts rely on a marinade composed of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, fresh parsley, paprika, and dried oregano, seasoned with salt and pepper. This marinade tenderizes the chicken breasts and imparts bright, herbaceous, and mildly smoky flavors. The preparation involves piercing the chicken to help the marinade penetrate, followed by a resting period ranging from 20 minutes up to two days to maximize flavor absorption.
Grilling the chicken over medium-high heat ensures a nicely browned exterior and fully cooked but juicy interior, reaching an internal temperature of at least 165°F for safety. The result is a well-balanced dish featuring savory, tangy, and aromatic notes from the combination of citrus, herbs, and spices.
These grilled chicken breasts can be served as a standalone main or sliced over salads and grains. The marinade can be prepared in advance, and giving ample marination time improves depth of flavor. Using fresh lemon juice and parsley is preferred for better brightness, and piercing the chicken before marinating helps it absorb flavors more effectively.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breast 2 lbs chicken total
- 6 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 tablespoons lemon juice fresh
- 6 garlic minced, large cloves
- 6 tablespoons parsley minced fresh
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 1/2 teaspoon oregano dried
- salt to season
- black pepper to season
Instructions
- To a large plastic food storage bag, add olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, garlic, paprika, and oregano and give a little mix.
- Give the chicken breasts a small slice with a knife or pierce with a fork, and then generously season with salt and pepper on both sides. Add to plastic bag with marinade. Seal bag and with your hands, mix the chicken and the marinade together well. Place in fridge and let marinate for 20 minutes or up to two days in the fridge (the longer the better!)
- Pre-heat grill.
- Remove chicken from bag and cook on a grill (or in a grill pan on medium high heat) for about 5-6 minutes per side. Cook until chicken is cooked through and has an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken breasts for at least 20 minutes; longer marination up to two days enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Always check the internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure the chicken is safely cooked.
- Using freshly squeezed lemon juice and minced fresh parsley improves the marinade's brightness and aroma.
- Piercing or slicing the chicken breasts before marinating helps the flavors permeate more thoroughly.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4people
Amount Per Serving
Calories 459 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 459kcal | 23% |
| Carbohydrates | 4g | 1% |
| Protein | 49g | 98% |
| Fat | 27g | 42% |
| Saturated Fat | 4g | 20% |
| Cholesterol | 145mg | 48% |
| Sodium | 267mg | 11% |
| Potassium | 929mg | 20% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 832IU | 17% |
| Vitamin C | 21mg | 23% |
| Calcium | 38mg | 4% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.8
You'll Also Love
