Greek Chicken
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Greek chicken, a dish that transports you to the sunlit shores of the Mediterranean. This recipe features tender, marinated chicken paired with fresh vegetables and a drizzle of olive oil, making it a healthy and delicious choice for any occasion. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish is sure to impress with its aromatic herbs and zesty flavors that leave a lasting impression.
Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, sliced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup feta cheese, cubed
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 chicken breast with vegetables) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g protein, 25g fat, 4g carbohydrates, and 2g fiber. This nutritional information is based on a single serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
4. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
5. Remove chicken from the marinade and discard the leftover marinade.
6. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
7. While grilling, prepare the salad by combining tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and feta cheese in a large bowl.
8. Drizzle the salad with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
9. Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
10. Serve the grilled chicken over the salad, garnishing with fresh parsley.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra juiciness. For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with grilled halloumi cheese or marinated tofu, and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Serving and Pairings
Greek chicken pairs wonderfully with sides like quinoa, rice, or warm pita bread. Complement the meal with a refreshing tzatziki sauce or a glass of chilled white wine for a complete Mediterranean experience.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on a stovetop over low heat. This dish can be frozen for up to a month; just ensure it’s well-wrapped.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid over-marinating the chicken to prevent it from becoming mushy.
– Ensure the grill is preheated for even cooking.
– Don’t skip resting the chicken; it helps retain juices.
– Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F internal temperature).
– Don’t overcrowd the grill; give each piece space to cook properly.
Helpful Tips
1. Marinate the chicken overnight for enhanced flavor.
2. Use fresh herbs if available for a more vibrant taste.
3. Adjust the garlic and lemon to your personal taste preference.
4. Try adding olives for an extra Mediterranean touch.
5. Serve with a side of rice pilaf for a complete meal.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but cooking times will vary. Make sure to adjust accordingly and check for doneness with a meat thermometer.
What sides go well with Greek chicken?
Greek chicken pairs excellently with a Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or a light couscous dish, making for a balanced meal.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and grill it just before serving for maximum freshness.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, Greek chicken is great for meal prep. It stores well and can be easily reheated, making it ideal for lunches throughout the week.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Ensure to check the thickest part of the breast for accuracy.
Conclusion
Greek chicken is not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Perfect for any occasion, this dish will surely become a favorite in your household. Try it today and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean right at your dinner table!
Greek Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cucumber sliced
- 1/2 red onion thinly sliced
- 1 cup feta cheese cubed
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove chicken from the marinade and discard the leftover marinade.
- Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
- While grilling, prepare the salad by combining tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and feta cheese.
- Drizzle the salad with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve the grilled chicken over the salad, garnishing with fresh parsley.