Flavorful Mediterranean Herb Crusted Grilled Chicken

Recipe By:
Melisa Egan
Updated:

Imagine biting into a piece of chicken so flavorful that it feels like a Mediterranean vacation on your taste buds. The juicy, herb-crusted grilled chicken is not just another dinner; it’s an experience filled with vibrant aromas and sun-kissed flavors that dance together in perfect harmony. You can practically hear the waves crashing on the shore while you savor each delicious bite.

I remember the first time I made this Mediterranean herb crusted grilled chicken for my friends. The reactions were priceless, with them exclaiming that they could almost feel like they were lounging on a beach in Greece. It quickly became the go-to recipe for our summer BBQs, and now it’s your turn to impress your guests with this culinary delight.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This amazing Mediterranean herb crusted grilled chicken is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Packed with fresh herbs, it bursts with flavor in every bite.
  • Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing and sure to impress at any gathering.
  • Versatile enough for grilling, baking, or pan-searing, this dish fits any cooking style.

I once whipped up this dish for a family gathering, and the raves from everyone still echo in my memory—every bite was accompanied by smiles and happy dance moves around the table.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Using about 3-4 chicken breasts ensures enough for everyone at your table.

  • Fresh Garlic: Opt for firm cloves; they pack a punch of flavor that’s hard to resist.

  • Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the richness of the herbs.

  • Fresh Herbs (Oregano, Thyme, Basil): Choose vibrant herbs for maximum flavor—fresh is always best!

  • Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness and balances the savory flavors beautifully.

  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors; don’t skimp on them!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for mediterranean herb crusted grilled chicken

How to Make Mediterranean Herb Crusted Grilled Chicken

Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, chopped herbs, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined. The aroma will whisk you away to a sunny patio.

Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and coat them thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for maximum flavor infusion.

Preheat Your Grill: While waiting for the chicken to marinate, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F – 400°F). A sizzling hot grill gives those beautiful char marks!

Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for 6-7 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You’ll know it’s done when it’s golden brown and smells heavenly.

Let It Rest: Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps retain its juices and keeps every bite succulent.

Slicing & Serving: Slice your perfectly grilled chicken against the grain. Serve it on a platter garnished with fresh herbs or lemon wedges for an extra pop of color and zest.

Now you have all you need to create an unforgettable meal! Enjoy every juicy morsel of your Mediterranean herb crusted grilled chicken—it’s bound to be a hit!

You Must Know

  • The Mediterranean herb crusted grilled chicken brings vibrant flavors and a delightful crunch.
  • This dish is perfect for summer barbecues or a cozy dinner at home.
  • Its aromatic blend of herbs will make your kitchen smell heavenly, leaving everyone wanting more.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken to allow those flavors to penetrate deeply. Next, preheat your grill to medium-high heat while preparing your sides, ensuring everything is ready to enjoy together.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out herbs based on personal preference. Try using fresh basil or thyme for a unique twist, or add a splash of lemon juice for extra zing.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F to maintain its juicy texture and flavor.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Always use fresh herbs for maximum flavor; dried ones can’t compete with the zestiness of fresh varieties.
  • Letting chicken rest after grilling ensures juiciness; this step is crucial.
  • Use a meat thermometer for perfectly cooked chicken; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F.

Sharing this dish with friends led to laughter and compliments, as they raved about the delicious flavors and begged me for the recipe. It’s always heartwarming to see people enjoy something you’ve created!

FAQ

What can I serve with Mediterranean herb crusted grilled chicken?

Pair this dish with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but ensure it’s completely thawed before marinating and grilling.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate the chicken for at least one hour, but overnight yields even better flavor!

Print

Mediterranean Herb Crusted Grilled Chicken

Experience an explosion of Mediterranean flavors with this herb-crusted grilled chicken. Juicy, tender chicken breasts are marinated in a fragrant blend of fresh garlic, vibrant herbs, and zesty lemon juice, then grilled to perfection. Perfect for summer BBQs or cozy family dinners, this dish will transport your taste buds straight to the sun-kissed shores of Greece.

  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 14 minutes
  • Total Time: 24 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tbsp)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, chopped herbs, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add chicken breasts to the marinade and coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
  3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375°F – 400°F).
  4. Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
  5. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 90mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 1g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or add chili flakes for a spicy kick. Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

You might also like these recipes

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating