Description
This Bold & Healthy Mediterranean Herb Crusted Grilled Chicken features tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts marinated in a fresh blend of lemon, garlic, and aromatic Mediterranean herbs. Perfectly grilled to juicy perfection, this dish is vibrant, flavorful, and easy to prepare, making it a delicious choice for a quick yet wholesome meal.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs (rosemary, oregano, thyme, and optional basil), salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or shallow dish, pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated thoroughly. Seal or cover and refrigerate for 2 to 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld and tenderize the meat.
- Preheat Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, then lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking and promote even grilling.
- Grill Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the hot grill. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), ensuring it is cooked through and juices run clear.
- Rest and Serve: Transfer the grilled chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes. This resting time helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender and moist. Serve with lemon wedges and your choice of Mediterranean side dishes for a complete meal.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for at least 2 hours enhances flavor and tenderness; avoid marinating longer than 4 hours as the acid may start to break down the meat texture.
- Use fresh herbs when possible for the best aromatic impact, but dried herbs work well in a pinch.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan or broiler indoors as an alternative method.
- Ensure the grill grates are well oiled to prevent sticking and tearing of the chicken.
- Letting the chicken rest after grilling is key to juicy results.
