Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this Mediterranean herb crusted grilled chicken! It’s bursting with flavor and just so easy to whip up. Imagine succulent chicken breasts coated in a fragrant blend of dried oregano, thyme, and garlic, kissed by the zesty brightness of lemon juice. It’s the perfect dish for those warm evenings when you want something quick yet impressive. Plus, it’s gluten-free and packed with protein, making it a healthy choice that doesn’t skimp on taste. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself making it again and again. It’s not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that takes you straight to the sunny Mediterranean with every bite!
Ingredients List
- 4 large chicken breasts: Make sure they’re boneless and skinless for the best results. They should be about 6-8 ounces each—perfect for grilling!
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: This will help the herb crust stick and add a lovely richness. Don’t skimp on quality here; the flavor really shines through!
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano: A staple in Mediterranean cooking, it brings a warm, earthy flavor. If you have fresh, feel free to substitute—just use about 1 tablespoon!
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme: This herb adds a subtle depth, complementing the oregano beautifully. Again, fresh thyme can be used if you prefer.
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder: For that garlicky goodness without the fuss of chopping fresh garlic. It blends seamlessly into the herb mixture.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors. Adjust to your taste, but this is a good starting point!
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground is best, as it adds a nice kick to the dish.
- 1 lemon, juiced: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish and balances the savory herbs. Make sure to catch any seeds when juicing!
How to Prepare Mediterranean Herb Crusted Grilled Chicken
Alright, let’s get to the good part—preparing this Mediterranean herb crusted grilled chicken! It’s really straightforward, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create such a flavorful dish.
Prepping the Grill
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your grill to medium-high heat, which usually takes about 10-15 minutes. This step is crucial because it ensures that your chicken gets those beautiful grill marks and cooks evenly. Plus, it locks in all that juicy goodness!
Making the Herb Mixture
While the grill is heating up, grab a mixing bowl and combine the olive oil, dried oregano, dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it forms a cohesive, fragrant mixture that smells absolutely divine. This herb blend is what makes the chicken sing!
Coating the Chicken
Now, take your chicken breasts and coat them generously with the herb mixture. I like to use my hands for this, really massaging that flavor into the meat. Once coated, drizzle the fresh lemon juice over the top for that zesty kick. Oh, the aroma is going to be heavenly!
Grilling the Chicken
Time to grill! Place the chicken on the hot grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe eating. Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving—this will keep it juicy and tender. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
To really elevate your Mediterranean herb crusted grilled chicken, here are some of my favorite tips! First, don’t hesitate to adjust the herbs to suit your taste. If you love basil or rosemary, feel free to throw those in the mix for a twist. You can also marinate the chicken in the herb mixture for a few hours—or even overnight—for deeper flavor penetration!
As for sides, this dish pairs beautifully with a refreshing Greek salad or some roasted vegetables drizzled with a bit of balsamic glaze. And if you want to add a bit of crunch, consider serving it with some pita chips or crusty bread to soak up any extra lemon juice. Trust me, the combination will make your taste buds dance!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix up this Mediterranean herb crusted grilled chicken! For a unique twist, try swapping out the dried herbs for some fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill—each will add its own delightful flavor profile. You could even throw in a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick!
Not in the mood to grill? No problem! You can easily bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until it reaches that perfect internal temperature of 165°F. Just make sure to line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Whichever way you choose to cook it, this chicken is bound to impress!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown for each serving of this delicious Mediterranean herb crusted grilled chicken. It’s always nice to know what you’re putting into your body, right?
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Cholesterol: 90mg
This dish is not only packed with protein but is also low in carbohydrates, making it a fantastic choice for a healthy meal! Enjoy all that flavor while keeping your nutrition on point!
FAQ Section
Got questions about this Mediterranean herb crusted grilled chicken? I’ve got you covered!
How do I store leftovers? You can store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing it up!
Can I substitute fresh herbs for dried ones? Absolutely! Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor even more. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as the dried ones, as they’re less concentrated.
What if I don’t have a grill? No worries! You can bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until it reaches 165°F. Just remember to line your baking sheet for easy cleanup!
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can marinate the chicken in the herb mixture a day in advance, making dinner prep a breeze when you’re ready to grill.
Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be a Mediterranean chicken pro in no time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredible flavor from a vibrant herb crust that transports you straight to the Mediterranean!
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Packed with lean protein, this dish is not only delicious but also great for your health.
- Versatile enough to pair with a variety of sides, so you can switch it up each time!
- Gluten-free, ensuring everyone can enjoy this tasty meal without worry.
Mediterranean Herb Crusted Grilled Chicken: 5 Flavor Boosts
A flavorful grilled chicken dish with a Mediterranean herb crust.
- Total Time: 29 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, juiced
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the chicken breasts with the herb mixture.
- Drizzle lemon juice over the chicken.
- Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Adjust herbs based on your preference.
- Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: mediterranean herb crusted grilled chicken