Mediterranean Herb Crusted Grilled Chicken – Flavorful, Healthy & Grilled to Perfection

Mediterranean Herb Crusted Grilled Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for summer grilling or a weeknight dinner. With an aromatic blend of Mediterranean herbs, garlic, and a hint of lemon, this chicken is tender, juicy, and full of vibrant flavors. The herb crust gives the chicken a delicious, slightly crispy texture while keeping the inside moist and perfectly seasoned.

Whether you’re serving it with a side of vegetables, a fresh salad, or over a bed of couscous, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright and fresh – Mediterranean herbs and lemon add a refreshing taste to the grilled chicken.

• Simple yet impressive – A few key ingredients come together for a flavorful, satisfying meal.

• Healthy – Packed with lean protein and fresh herbs, making it both nutritious and delicious.

• Quick & easy – Ready in 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or weekend grilling.

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Ingredient Overview: What You’ll Need

Chicken Breasts

Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat, as they’re more forgiving on the grill and can stay juicier.

Mediterranean Herbs

A mix of oregano, thyme, rosemary, and parsley gives the chicken an authentic Mediterranean flavor. Use fresh herbs for the best taste, but dried herbs can also work in a pinch.

Garlic

Minced garlic provides aromatic depth to the marinade, infusing the chicken with a bold, savory flavor.

Olive Oil

A generous amount of extra virgin olive oil helps coat the chicken, locking in moisture while creating a beautifully crisp herb crust on the grill.

Lemon

Lemon zest and juice add a bright, citrusy note that enhances the chicken’s flavor and balances the richness of the olive oil.

Salt & Pepper

Essential for seasoning the chicken and bringing out the flavors of the herbs and garlic.

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How to Make Mediterranean Herb Crusted Grilled Chicken (Step-by-Step)

1. Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine:

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tbsp lemon zest

• 2 garlic cloves (minced)

• 1 tsp dried oregano (or 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped)

• 1 tsp dried rosemary (or 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped)

• 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped)

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)

• Salt and pepper to taste

Mix everything together until well combined. The olive oil helps create the herb crust on the chicken while the lemon and garlic infuse it with fresh, bold flavors.

2. Marinate the Chicken

• Place 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts into a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.

• Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully coated.

• Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) to let the flavors marinate.

3. Preheat the Grill

• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C).

• Lightly oil the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in olive oil or use a non-stick grilling spray.

4. Grill the Chicken

• Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the leftover marinade.

• Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.

• For grill marks and extra flavor, try to only flip the chicken once.

5. Rest and Serve

• Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.

• Garnish with additional chopped parsley and a few lemon wedges for extra zest before serving.

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Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Tips for Perfectly Grilled Chicken

• Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before grilling so they cook evenly.

• Do not overcook the chicken – Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption while keeping it juicy.

• Let the chicken rest after grilling to preserve the moisture and flavor.

Variations

• Add Heat: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the marinade for a spicy kick.

• Greek Yogurt Marinade: Replace half of the olive oil with Greek yogurt for a creamier texture and extra tang.

• Vegetable Additions: Serve the chicken with grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers for a Mediterranean-style plate.

Substitutions

• No fresh herbs? Use dried herbs if fresh ones aren’t available. For each tablespoon of fresh herbs, use about 1 tsp of dried herbs.

• No grill? You can cook the chicken in a skillet or oven. Sear the chicken in a hot pan with some olive oil for 3-4 minutes on each side, then finish cooking in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes.

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Serving Ideas & Occasions

This Mediterranean Herb Crusted Grilled Chicken is perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners – Easy to prepare and healthy.

• Summer grilling – A light, flavorful dish that pairs well with warm weather.

• Meal prep – Make it ahead and store in the fridge for a few days of healthy, protein-packed meals.

• Dinner parties – Impress guests with its fresh Mediterranean flavors.

Serve with:

• Greek salad – With cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta.

• Tzatziki sauce – A cool, creamy dip that complements the grilled chicken.

• Roasted vegetables – Like sweet potatoes, zucchini, or asparagus.

• Couscous or quinoa – Light and fluffy sides that soak up the juices from the chicken.

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Nutritional & Health Benefits

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving, 4 servings total):

• Calories: 280–320

• Protein: 35–40g

• Fat: 15–18g

• Carbs: 2–4g

• Fiber: 1g

Nutritional Highlights:

• Chicken: A lean source of protein that supports muscle building and overall health.

• Olive Oil: Rich in healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, which are good for heart health.

• Herbs: Fresh herbs like oregano, rosemary, and thyme are not only flavorful but also contain antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes, marinating the chicken overnight will intensify the flavors. Just make sure to refrigerate the chicken while marinating.

2. Can I cook this chicken in the oven?

Yes, you can bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for about 25–30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work great, and they’re more flavorful and forgiving when it comes to cooking.

4. What can I substitute for lemon juice?

If you don’t have lemon juice, you can substitute with white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for some acidity. However, lemon juice gives the dish its signature bright flavor.

5. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftover grilled chicken for up to 3 months. Store it in an airtight container or freezer bag and reheat when ready to serve.

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