Description
A simple and flavorful recipe for juicy grilled Mediterranean chicken breasts marinated in a vibrant blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and aromatic herbs and spices. Perfect for a healthy and delicious meal with a bright, charred finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Marinade
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried oregano)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish and Serving
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper to create a vibrant and aromatic marinade.
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or zip-lock bag and pour the marinade over them, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 2-4 hours, to let the flavors infuse.
- Preheat the grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Clean and lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking during cooking.
- Prepare chicken for grilling: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off, and discard the leftover marinade for safety.
- Grill the chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The chicken should develop a nice char and clear juices.
- Rest the chicken: Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes to redistribute juices, keeping the chicken moist and tender.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately, optionally with lemon wedges for an added citrus burst.
Notes
- For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours to allow deep flavor penetration.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness for food safety and optimal juiciness.
- Oiling the grill grates well prevents sticking and helps achieve a beautiful sear.
- This recipe pairs well with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or couscous for a complete Mediterranean meal.
