Name: Mediterranean Herb Crusted Grilled Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-489450H51M34S
Total time: PT-489450H51M34S
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each); 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced fine; 1 tsp dried oregano (preferably Mediterranean oregano); 1 tsp dried basil; 1/2 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp sweet paprika; 1 tsp salt (or to taste); 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

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If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and transports you straight to sun-soaked coastal towns, the Mediterranean Herb Crusted Grilled Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. This delightful chicken recipe combines fragrant herbs, zesty lemon, and smoky grilled goodness into a perfectly balanced meal that’s both healthy and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re impressing guests or enjoying a weekday dinner, this Mediterranean Herb Crusted Grilled Chicken Recipe shines with its fresh ingredients and bold taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows raw chicken breasts placed on a white plate with a blue rim, positioned on a white marbled surface. Around the plate, there are seven small white bowls arranged neatly, each containing different spices or ingredients: bright red paprika powder, dried herbs, black peppercorns, coriander seeds, coarse salt, and garlic cloves. A whole lemon and fresh green parsley are also placed nearby, along with a small glass bottle filled with olive oil. The scene is clean and bright, with all items carefully arranged for cooking preparation. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Mediterranean Herb Crusted Grilled Chicken Recipe plays a crucial role in crafting its wonderful flavor profile. Simple and wholesome, these staples highlight fresh herbs, citrus, and spices that make each bite unforgettable.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each): Tender and lean protein forms the perfect canvas for the herb crust.
Extra virgin olive oil (2 tbsp): Adds richness and helps meld all the flavors together while keeping the chicken juicy.
Fresh lemon juice (2 tbsp): Brings a bright, zesty tang that lifts every other ingredient.
Garlic, minced fine (2 cloves): Infuses a warm, aromatic punch, enhancing the overall savoriness.
Dried oregano (1 tsp): The classic Mediterranean herb that evokes sunny, herbal notes.
Dried basil (1 tsp): Offers a sweet and slightly peppery undertone.
Dried thyme (1/2 tsp): Adds mild earthiness, balancing the zest and herbs.
Sweet paprika (1/2 tsp): Contributes a gentle smokiness and beautiful reddish hue.
Salt (1 tsp or to taste): Essential for highlighting all the flavors cohesively.
Freshly ground black pepper (1/2 tsp): Adds just the right amount of bite and warmth.

How to Make Mediterranean Herb Crusted Grilled Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by whisking together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, finely minced garlic, dried oregano, basil, thyme, sweet paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a medium bowl. This marinade is the flavor powerhouse, infusing the chicken with bright citrus notes, herbal freshness, and a subtle smoky touch that works wonders once grilled.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure every piece gets a thorough coating. Give it a gentle massage to help the marinade penetrate deeply. Seal or cover, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. If time allows, marinate up to 24 hours for an even deeper flavor.

Step 3: Preheat and Prepare the Grill

Heat your grill to medium-high and give the grates a good cleaning. Lightly oil the grill surface to prevent sticking, a key step that ensures those beautiful grill marks along with easy flipping later.

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, letting any excess drip off before placing them on the grill. Discard the leftover marinade for food safety. Grill for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side until the internal temperature hits 165°F and the juices run clear. This timing locks in juiciness while delivering a perfectly cooked, tender chicken breast.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Once off the grill, allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes. This step is essential to let the juices redistribute, guaranteeing that every bite is moist and flavorful rather than drying out the moment you slice.

How to Serve Mediterranean Herb Crusted Grilled Chicken Recipe

The image shows two grilled chicken pieces placed side by side on a white plate with a white marbled texture surface. Each chicken piece has dark grill marks and is covered with green herb sauce made of chopped herbs and oil, which pools slightly around the chicken. Behind the chicken pieces, there are two lemon halves positioned horizontally, adding a bright yellow color. The chicken looks juicy and well cooked with a shiny and oily texture on top. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes elevate this dish beautifully. Try sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or a few lemon wedges on the side. These simple touches add color, brightness, and a fresh pop of flavor that complements the herb crust wonderfully.

Side Dishes

For a classic Mediterranean meal, pair the grilled chicken with a crisp Greek village salad or grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant. For a heartier option, serve over fluffy quinoa or rice pilaf. Roasted potatoes with a dollop of tzatziki sauce also make a comforting and delicious side that rounds out the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to get inventive? Slice the grilled chicken thinly and arrange it over mixed greens with olives, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese for a fresh, hearty salad. Or cube the marinated chicken before grilling to make Mediterranean-inspired chicken skewers, perfect for gatherings or casual dinners.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cooked Mediterranean Herb Crusted Grilled Chicken Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s equally delicious eaten cold in salads or reheated for quick lunches and dinners.

Freezing

If you’d like to save some for later, this grilled chicken freezes beautifully. Wrap cooled pieces tightly in freezer-safe bags or containers, and store for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

For the juiciest reheated chicken, warm it gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven wrapped in foil. Avoid the microwave if possible to prevent dryness, but if you must, reheat on medium power in short intervals, covering loosely to trap moisture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried in this recipe?

Absolutely! Fresh herbs can add an even brighter flavor to your Mediterranean Herb Crusted Grilled Chicken Recipe. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried since fresh herbs are less concentrated. Just chop them finely and mix them into the marinade.

How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?

While 30 minutes is the minimum to get good flavor penetration, marinating for several hours or up to 24 hours really intensifies the herbaceous and lemony notes. Just be careful not to exceed 24 hours, as the acidity from the lemon juice can start to break down the meat too much.

Can I cook this chicken indoors if I don’t have a grill?

Definitely! You can use a grill pan or a cast-iron skillet on your stovetop to mimic the grilling process. Just preheat the pan to medium-high heat, add a little oil, and cook the chicken 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through, achieving a nice sear and flavorful crust.

Is this a healthy recipe?

Yes! The Mediterranean Herb Crusted Grilled Chicken Recipe is packed with lean protein and uses heart-healthy olive oil along with fresh herbs and lemon for flavor, keeping it low in calories and fat while delivering lots of nutrients and rich taste.

Can I use this marinade on other types of meat or vegetables?

Great question! This marinade works wonderfully on pork chops, fish fillets, or even hearty vegetables like eggplant and portobello mushrooms. Just adjust the cooking time depending on your choice, and enjoy the Mediterranean flair it imparts.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a meal that’s bursting with flavor yet straightforward to prepare, and the Mediterranean Herb Crusted Grilled Chicken Recipe hits that sweet spot perfectly. Its vibrant herbs, zesty lemon, and smoky grilled notes make it a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. I truly encourage you to try this recipe soon and watch it become your new go-to for everything from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings with friends and family.

Mediterranean Herb Crusted Grilled Chicken Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need