Very Greek Grilled Chicken

This Very Greek Grilled Chicken recipe brings the vibrant flavors of Greek Chicken Souvlaki right to your grill. Perfect for backyard barbecues, weeknight dinners, or meal prep, this dish combines juicy chicken breasts with a zesty marinade that’s easy to make. Its versatility allows you to enjoy it in salads, wraps, or even on its own. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this recipe is quick and easy to put together.
• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of lemon juice and Greek spices infuses the chicken with amazing flavor.
• Versatile Meal Options: Enjoy it as a main dish, in salads, or as part of wraps for endless meal possibilities.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making your Very Greek Grilled Chicken, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Ziploc bag
• Colander
• Instant-Read Meat Thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving those perfect grill marks and smoky flavor.
• Ziploc bag: Ideal for marinating the chicken evenly without mess.
• Instant-Read Meat Thermometer: Guarantees the chicken is perfectly cooked to a safe internal temperature.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

This Very Greek Grilled Chicken has all the flavors of Greek Chicken Souvlaki in a grilled chicken breast.

• 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

How to Make Very Greek Grilled Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

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 chicken breasts.
3. Make small crosswise slits about 1/2 inch apart down the length of each chicken breast to help the marinade penetrate the meat.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Place chicken in a single layer in a Ziploc bag.
2. In a bowl, combine olive oil, fresh-squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, Greek seasoning, poultry seasoning, dried oregano, and black pepper to make the marinade.
3. Pour the marinade over the chicken in the Ziploc bag.
4. Marinate chicken in refrigerator for 6-8 hours or 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 time allows.
2. Spray the grill with non-stick spray or oil; preheat to medium-high heat.
3. Place chicken on grill top side down on an angle against the grill grates; cook for about 4 minutes until grill marks appear.
4. Rotate the chicken pieces so they’re diagonal in the opposite direction; cook for another 4 minutes until criss-cross grill marks form.
5. Flip the chicken over; cook about 4–8 minutes on this side until firm but not hard when pressed.

Step 4: Check Doneness and Serve

1. Test doneness with an Instant-Read Meat Thermometer; grilled chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165F/75C.
2. Enjoy immediately or store leftovers for salads, tacos, or stir-fried veggies!

How to Serve Very Greek Grilled Chicken

Very Greek Grilled Chicken is versatile and can be served in various delicious ways. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a cozy dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Salad Topping

• Add grilled chicken pieces atop a fresh salad for a protein boost. Pair with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for a refreshing dish.

Greek Tacos

• Use warm tortillas to wrap diced grilled chicken with tzatziki sauce, lettuce, and diced tomatoes. This fusion adds a twist to traditional tacos.

Stir-Fried Veggies

• Toss the grilled chicken into a stir-fry with seasonal vegetables for a quick and healthy lunch option. A splash of lemon juice enhances the flavors beautifully.

Pita Sandwiches

• Stuff pita bread with sliced grilled chicken, feta cheese, and olives. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice for added flavor.

Grain Bowls

• Serve the chicken over quinoa or rice along with roasted vegetables and chickpeas. This hearty bowl makes for a filling meal.

Skewers

• Cut the grilled chicken into bite-sized pieces and thread onto skewers with bell peppers and onions for fun finger food at gatherings.

How to Perfect Very Greek Grilled Chicken

To achieve perfectly cooked Very Greek Grilled Chicken, consider these helpful tips for an amazing grilling experience.

• Marinate adequately: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 6 hours ensures maximum flavor infusion.
• Use a meat thermometer: Check the internal temperature; it should reach 165F/75C for safe consumption.
• Let it rest: Allow the chicken to rest after grilling for 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy.
• Preheat the grill: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat to achieve great sear marks.
• Avoid overcooking: Keep an eye on cooking times; overcooked chicken can become dry and tough.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add different spices or herbs to the marinade for unique variations of taste.

Best Side Dishes for Very Greek Grilled Chicken

Pairing sides with Very Greek Grilled Chicken can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some fantastic side dishes that complement this recipe beautifully.

1. Greek Salad
   A mix of fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta cheese tossed in olive oil and oregano.

2. Roasted Vegetables
   A colorful array of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender and caramelized.

3. Quinoa Tabouli
   A refreshing salad made from quinoa, parsley, mint, tomatoes, and lemon juice—perfectly light yet filling.

4. Hummus & Pita Chips
   Creamy hummus served alongside crunchy pita chips provides a delightful dipping experience.

5. Tzatziki Sauce
   This yogurt-based sauce made from cucumber, garlic, and dill pairs well as a cooling dip or spread.

6. Grilled Asparagus
   Lightly seasoned asparagus spears grilled until tender offer an excellent complement to the chicken’s flavors.

7. Lemon Rice Pilaf
   Fluffy rice cooked in broth with lemon zest adds brightness that pairs wonderfully with grilled dishes.

8. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas)
   These vine leaves filled with rice and herbs add an authentic touch to your Greek-inspired meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make mistakes when grilling chicken, which can lead to dry or flavorless results. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Skipping the Marinade: Failing to marinate your chicken can result in bland flavor. Always give it enough time to soak up the marinade for maximum taste.
• Not Preheating the Grill: Cooking on a cold grill can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your grill to the right temperature before placing the chicken on it.
• Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too many pieces of chicken at once can trap steam and prevent proper searing. Cook in batches if needed.
• Ignoring Internal Temperature: Not checking if the chicken is fully cooked can lead to food safety issues. Use an Instant-Read Meat Thermometer for accuracy.
• Cutting Too Soon: Slicing into the chicken right after grilling can release juices, making it dry. Let it rest for a few minutes before cutting.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Very Greek Grilled Chicken

• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Very Greek Grilled Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil and reheat chicken for about 5 minutes on each side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses some common queries about Very Greek Grilled Chicken.

How long should I marinate Very Greek Grilled Chicken?

Marinate for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, to enhance flavor and tenderness.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! This recipe works well with turkey or lamb. Just adjust cooking times based on the meat used.

What sides pair well with Very Greek Grilled Chicken?

Consider serving with a Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or tzatziki sauce for a complete meal.

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

Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) using an Instant-Read Meat Thermometer.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Marinated chicken can be prepared up to a day in advance, making meal prep easy.

Final Thoughts

Very Greek Grilled Chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can serve it as part of a hearty dinner or use leftovers in salads and wraps. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite herbs and spices!