Mediterranean Grilled Chicken: A Flavorful Twist to a Classic Dish
Mediterranean Grilled Chicken is a mouthwatering twist on traditional grilled chicken, packed with the bold flavors and aromas of the Mediterranean. The dish is a perfect blend of juicy chicken, crispy herbs, and tangy spices, evoking the warm and sun-kissed Mediterranean coast. With its vibrant colors and tantalizing aroma, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends, and can be easily scaled up or down to suit any occasion. Best of all, it's incredibly easy to make and requires minimal preparation, making it the perfect recipe for anyone looking to inject a burst of Mediterranean flair into their meals.
Ingredients:
* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1/4 cup olive oil
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1 teaspoon paprika
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
* 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush both sides with the marinade.
4. Let chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
5. Remove chicken from marinade and shake off excess.
6. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Remove from heat and top with crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, and chopped mint, if using.
8. Drizzle with additional olive oil and serve immediately.
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30-40 minutes
Variations:
* Use different types of cheese, such as crumbled goat cheese or shaved Parmesan, for a unique twist.
* Add some heat with a few dashes of red pepper flakes.
* Swap out the parsley and mint for fresh cilantro and basil for a Mexican-inspired twist.
* Substitute the Kalamata olives with chopped artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes for added texture and flavor.
* For a vegan version, replace the chicken with portobello mushrooms marinated in the same mixture and grill until tender.