Greek cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and simple yet delicious recipes.
One of the standout dishes that embodies these qualities is Greek-style grilled chicken.
With a perfect blend of herbs, spices, and citrus, this dish promises to deliver juicy and flavorful chicken that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a summer BBQ, this recipe is sure to impress.
Let’s dive into how you can make the most juicy and flavorful chicken at home!
Ingredients
To make this mouthwatering Greek chicken, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, sliced in half horizontally to make 4 thin cutlets
- 1.5 lemons, juiced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create the most juicy and flavorful Greek chicken:
- Prepare the Marinade
- In a large bowl, combine the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, chopped fresh oregano, cumin powder, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will be your marinade, which will infuse the chicken with incredible flavor.
- Cut and Marinate the Chicken
- Take the chicken breasts and slice them in half horizontally to create 4 thin cutlets. This not only helps the chicken cook more evenly but also allows the marinade to penetrate the meat better.
- Place the chicken cutlets into the bowl with the marinade, ensuring that each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge to marinate for at least 30 minutes. For even more intense flavor, you can marinate the chicken overnight.
- Preheat the Grill
- When you’re ready to cook, preheat your outdoor grill or grill pan. Drizzle it with 2 tablespoons of olive oil to prevent the chicken from sticking and to add a bit of extra flavor.
- Grill the Chicken
- Place the marinated chicken cutlets on the grill. Cook them on all sides until they are fully cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). Depending on the thickness of your cutlets, this should take about 4-6 minutes per side.
- Keep an eye on the chicken to avoid overcooking, which can cause the meat to become dry. The goal is to achieve a nice char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute within the meat, ensuring every bite is succulent.
- Serve the chicken hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a wedge of lemon if desired. This Greek chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes such as a Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or pita bread with tzatziki sauce.
Tips for the Best Greek Chicken
- Marinating Time: While 30 minutes is sufficient to impart good flavor, marinating the chicken overnight will give you the best results.
- Cutting the Chicken: Slicing the chicken breasts into thin cutlets ensures even cooking and allows the marinade to penetrate more deeply.
- Grilling: If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan on your stovetop or even broil the chicken in the oven.
Conclusion
This Greek-style grilled chicken recipe is a fantastic way to bring the fresh and vibrant flavors of Greece to your table.
With minimal ingredients and simple preparation, you can enjoy juicy, flavorful chicken that’s perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to be a hit with family and friends.
So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the taste of Greece in every bite!