Herbed Mediterranean Grilled Chicken with Olive Oil Marinade
Elevate your weeknight dinners with this flavorful Herbed Mediterranean Grilled Chicken recipe. Marinated in a delightful blend of olive oil and Italian herbs, this dish infuses the lean chicken breasts with rich flavors, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal. Whether you serve it alongside steamed vegetables or with a fresh salad, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike. The marinade not only enhances the taste but also keeps the chicken juicy and tender while grilling. Quick, easy, and undeniably delicious, this recipe is a must-try for your culinary repertoire!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
chicken breasts
2 (skinless and boneless)
salt
to taste (none)
black pepper
to taste (none)
olive oil
1/4 cup (none)
Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons (none)
frozen vegetables
optional (for steaming as a side)
Instructions
1
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. Ensure an even coating on both sides for maximum flavor.
2
Generously sprinkle Italian seasoning over the seasoned chicken breasts, making sure to cover them thoroughly.
3
In a Ziploc bag, add the olive oil, seal the bag, and gently massage it to distribute the oil evenly.
4
Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the bag and seal it again. Use your hands to rub the bag, ensuring the chicken is well-coated with the oil and seasoning.
5
Allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for at least two hours; for best results, marinate overnight to let the flavors develop fully.
6
Preheat your grill to medium-low heat. Once hot, remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill.
7
Grill the chicken breasts for approximately 15 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
8
If desired, steam some frozen vegetables during the grilling process for a nutritious side, or serve the chicken on its own. Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean creation!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Herbed Mediterranean Grilled Chicken?
It is a flavorful dish featuring chicken breasts marinated in a blend of olive oil and Italian seasoning, then grilled until juicy and tender.
What cut of chicken is best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for two skinless and boneless chicken breasts.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
You should marinate the chicken for at least two hours, but for the best results, let it marinate overnight.
What is the recommended grilling temperature?
Preheat your grill to medium-low heat for cooking this Mediterranean chicken.
How long does the chicken need to be grilled?
Grill the chicken for approximately 15 to 20 minutes in total.
Should I flip the chicken while grilling?
Yes, flip the chicken breasts halfway through the grilling process to ensure even cooking.
What internal temperature should the chicken reach?
The chicken is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What ingredients are in the marinade?
The marinade consists of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of Italian seasoning.
How much olive oil is required for this recipe?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of olive oil for the marinade.
How do I ensure the chicken is well-coated?
Place the chicken in a Ziploc bag with the oil and seasonings and massage the bag to distribute everything evenly.
Can I add vegetables to this meal?
Yes, you can steam frozen vegetables as a nutritious side dish while the chicken is grilling.
What are the primary seasonings used?
The chicken is seasoned with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Is this recipe suitable for a healthy diet?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy recipe featuring lean protein and heart-healthy olive oil.
Is this a quick dinner option?
Yes, it is described as a quick and easy recipe, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
What equipment do I need for marinating?
A simple Ziploc bag is recommended for marinating and massaging the chicken.
What is the first step in preparing the chicken?
The first step is seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides.
Can I serve this chicken with a salad?
Absolutely, serving it with a fresh salad is a recommended way to enjoy this Mediterranean dish.
Does the marinade help keep the chicken juicy?
Yes, the olive oil marinade helps the chicken remain juicy and tender during the grilling process.
What kind of seasoning is 'Italian seasoning'?
It is typically a blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
The recipe uses 2 chicken breasts, typically serving 2 people depending on size.
Can I use bone-in chicken?
The recipe specifically recommends skinless and boneless breasts for the best results with this method.
Do I need to preheat the grill?
Yes, ensure the grill is preheated to medium-low before adding the chicken.
Is the Italian seasoning applied before or after the oil?
The seasoning is sprinkled over the chicken before it is placed in the bag with the olive oil.
What makes this a Mediterranean dish?
The use of olive oil, Italian herbs, and lean grilling methods are hallmarks of Mediterranean cuisine.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried Italian seasoning?
While the recipe calls for dried Italian seasoning, fresh Mediterranean herbs can be substituted if adjusted for quantity.
Is this recipe good for beginners?
Yes, the instructions are straightforward and easy to follow for home cooks of any level.
How do I season for maximum flavor?
Ensure an even coating of salt, pepper, and herbs on both sides of the meat.
Can I use a different type of oil?
Olive oil is recommended for its flavor profile, but other high-smoke point oils can be used if necessary.
Does this chicken work for meal prep?
Yes, this grilled chicken is an excellent protein option for meal prepping throughout the week.
What is the benefit of massaging the chicken in the bag?
Massaging ensures that every part of the chicken is thoroughly coated with the oil and seasoning for consistent flavor.