15 Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Recipes
Did you know that grilled chicken is not only a favorite among many but also a versatile dish that can transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean? In this blog, we’ll explore 15 mouthwatering Mediterranean grilled chicken recipes that are bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion. From zesty Lemon Herb Chicken with Tzatziki Sauce to spicy Harissa Grilled Chicken Breasts, you’ll discover a delightful array of dishes that will inspire your next cookout and elevate your culinary skills!
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Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Tzatziki Sauce
This Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Tzatziki Sauce captures the vibrant flavors of fresh herbs and zesty lemon, making it a refreshing dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 lemons, juiced and zested
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, grated
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced (for tzatziki)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for tzatziki)
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable bag or dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2-4 hours.
3. While the chicken marinates, prepare the tzatziki sauce by mixing Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, dill, mint, minced garlic, and lemon juice in a bowl. Season with salt to taste and refrigerate until ready to serve.
4. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the excess marinade.
5. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
7. Serve the grilled chicken with a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce on top or on the side.
Tips:
- For added flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight.
- Serve with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Store any leftover tzatziki in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Mediterranean Spiced Chicken Skewers
This Mediterranean Spiced Chicken Skewers recipe is special for its vibrant blend of spices and succulent chicken, offering a taste of the sun-soaked coasts of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 8 skewers (wooden or metal)
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice to create the marinade.
2. Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, stirring well to ensure all pieces are evenly coated.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
4. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
5. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
6. Grill the skewers for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
7. Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips:
- For added flavor, soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before using to prevent burning.
- Serve with tzatziki sauce or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Feel free to add vegetables such as bell peppers or onion to the skewers for more variety.
Grilled Chicken with Olive Tapenade
This Grilled Chicken with Olive Tapenade is a delightful combination of savory grilled meat and the robust flavors of olives, making it a perfect dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup pitted olives, chopped
- 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and olive oil, ensuring they are well-coated.
3. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. While the chicken is grilling, prepare the olive tapenade by combining chopped olives, capers, garlic, lemon juice, and parsley in a bowl.
5. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes.
6. Serve the grilled chicken topped with the olive tapenade.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for 30 minutes before grilling.
- Feel free to use different olives for a unique twist on the tapenade.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Garlic and Rosemary Marinated Chicken Thighs
This Garlic and Rosemary Marinated Chicken Thighs recipe is special for its robust flavors and easy preparation, perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine minced garlic, chopped rosemary, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to make the marinade.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are thoroughly coated, then cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for deeper flavor.
3. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
4. Place the marinated chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is golden brown.
6. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Tips:
- Pair the chicken with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- To enhance the dish, consider marinating the chicken overnight for the best flavor.
- Any leftover marinade can be used as a dressing for salads if boiled for safety.
Moroccan Grilled Chicken with Couscous Salad
This Moroccan Grilled Chicken with Couscous Salad is a vibrant dish bursting with aromatic spices and fresh ingredients that will transport your taste buds to North Africa.
Ingredients:
- 4 pieces chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 ¼ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- ¼ cup raisins
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, cayenne, salt, and black pepper to create a marinade.
2. Coat the chicken breasts with the marinade and let them sit for at least 15 minutes, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours for more flavor.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the marinated chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and juices run clear.
5. While the chicken is grilling, bring the chicken broth to a boil in a saucepan.
6. Once boiling, remove from heat and stir in the couscous, cover, and let it sit for 5 minutes. Then, fluff with a fork.
7. In a large bowl, combine the fluffed couscous, cucumber, tomatoes, parsley, raisins, and lemon juice. Mix well.
8. Serve the grilled chicken on a plate alongside a generous portion of the couscous salad.
Tips:
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Substitute lemon juice with orange juice for a sweeter taste.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or red onion to the couscous salad.
Mediterranean Lemon and Feta Grilled Chicken
This Mediterranean Lemon and Feta Grilled Chicken recipe brings together vibrant citrus notes and creamy feta for a deliciously refreshing dish.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 lemons (juiced and zested)
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated.
3. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2 hours for more flavor.
4. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
5. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the remaining marinade.
6. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
7. During the last few minutes of cooking, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top of the chicken to allow it to melt slightly.
8. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Tips:
- For even more flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Serve with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Herb and Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken
This Herb and Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken recipe is special for its tender, juicy meat infused with vibrant herb and tangy yogurt flavors that make it irresistible.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dill, parsley, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for best flavor.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Remove chicken from the marinade and let excess marinade drip off. Discard the remaining marinade.
5. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing to serve.
Tips:
- For an extra burst of flavor, add some paprika or cumin to the marinade.
- Serve with a side salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
- You can also use this marinade for other proteins like shrimp or tofu.
Grilled Chicken with Tomato and Basil Salsa
This Grilled Chicken with Tomato and Basil Salsa is a delightful dish that combines the juicy flavors of grilled chicken with fresh, vibrant toppings.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups diced tomatoes
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Brush this mixture onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
3. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. While the chicken is grilling, prepare the tomato and basil salsa by combining diced tomatoes, chopped basil, balsamic vinegar, and red pepper flakes in a bowl. Mix well.
5. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
6. Serve the grilled chicken topped with the fresh tomato and basil salsa.
Tips:
- For a smoky flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the olive oil mixture for an hour before grilling.
- Feel free to add diced red onion or bell peppers to the salsa for extra crunch and flavor.
- This dish pairs well with a side salad or grilled vegetables.
Greek-Style Grilled Chicken with Oregano and Lemon
This Greek-Style Grilled Chicken with Oregano and Lemon is a delightful combination of tangy lemon and aromatic herbs that brings summer flavors to your dining table.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 lemons (juiced)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are evenly coated. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.
4. Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is nicely browned.
5. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges.
Tips:
- Marinating the chicken longer will enhance the flavors, so plan ahead if possible.
- For added flavor, try grilling some vegetables alongside the chicken.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked.
Spicy Harissa Grilled Chicken Breasts
This Spicy Harissa Grilled Chicken Breasts recipe is special for its vibrant flavors and the perfect blend of heat and smokiness.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons harissa paste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the harissa paste, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika to form a marinade.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable bag or dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated. Seal or cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grill grates.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess, and place them on the hot grill.
5. Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Serve with a side of couscous or a fresh salad to complement the dish.
- Adjust the amount of harissa paste to suit your spice preference.
Grilled Chicken with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
This Grilled Chicken with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce combines smoky, savory, and tangy flavors for a dish that’s both simple and deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 jar (about 12 oz) roasted red peppers, drained
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon fresh basil, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried basil)
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat each chicken breast with the spice mixture, ensuring even coverage.
4. Grill the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and juices run clear.
5. While the chicken is grilling, prepare the roasted red pepper sauce by blending the roasted red peppers, Greek yogurt, red wine vinegar, and basil until smooth.
6. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
7. Serve the grilled chicken topped with the roasted red pepper sauce.
Tips:
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the spice mixture for 30 minutes before grilling.
- Pair the dish with a side of grilled veggies or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- You can adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more Greek yogurt or water as needed.
Balsamic and Honey Grilled Chicken
This Balsamic and Honey Grilled Chicken recipe is a delightful blend of tangy and sweet flavors that make for a mouthwatering meal any night of the week.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Place chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated.
3. Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
5. Remove chicken from the marinade and grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving, allowing the juices to redistribute.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, add a splash of soy sauce to the marinade.
- Serve with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and are great in salads or wraps.
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Grilled Chicken
This Spinach and Feta Stuffed Grilled Chicken is a delightful combination of savory flavors and healthy ingredients that bring a delicious twist to your dinner table.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine the chopped spinach, feta cheese, cream cheese, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Using a sharp knife, create a pocket in each chicken breast for the stuffing.
4. Stuff each chicken breast with the spinach and feta mixture, securing the opening with toothpicks if necessary.
5. Brush the outside of the chicken with olive oil and drizzle with lemon juice.
6. Place the stuffed chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for 30 minutes before stuffing.
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Make sure to keep an eye on the grill to prevent the chicken from drying out.
Grilled Chicken with Zaatar and Labneh
This Grilled Chicken with Zaatar and Labneh recipe stands out due to its aromatic blend of Middle Eastern spices and the creamy tang of labneh, making it a delightful dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons zaatar spice mix
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup labneh
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 pita breads (optional, for serving)
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix zaatar, olive oil, salt, and black pepper to create a marinade.
2. Coat the chicken breasts with the marinade, ensuring they are evenly covered. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. While the chicken is grilling, mix labneh with lemon juice and chopped parsley in a separate bowl.
6. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
7. Serve the grilled chicken with a dollop of labneh and warm pita bread, if desired.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Serve with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- You can substitute labneh with Greek yogurt if needed.
Cilantro Lime Mediterranean Grilled Chicken
This Cilantro Lime Mediterranean Grilled Chicken is a vibrant dish that combines the fresh flavors of cilantro and lime with a Mediterranean twist, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 limes, juiced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the lime juice, cilantro, garlic, oregano, cumin, red pepper flakes, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable bag and pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated.
3. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
4. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
5. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.
6. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
7. Remove the chicken from the grill, let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice and serve.
Tips:
- Marinating overnight enhances the flavors significantly.
- Pair with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
- For a smoky flavor, add a dash of smoked paprika to the marinade.
