High Protein Mediterranean Chicken

Name: High Protein Mediterranean Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

By Alicia Newsom

March 16, 2025

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The aroma of spices fills the air as you envision your dinner table showcasing the delightful High Protein Mediterranean Chicken. Picture succulent pieces of chicken marinated in zesty lemon juice and aromatic herbs, sizzling away on your grill as if they’re putting on a culinary show just for you.

Imagine gathering friends or family around to share this dish, laughter echoing through the room while everyone dives into their plates with glee. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together over vibrant flavors and hearty textures.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This amazing Greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing

One time, I whipped up this dish for a dinner party, and my friends couldn’t stop raving about how juicy and flavorful it was; they even asked for seconds (and thirds)!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use 3-4 breasts depending on your crowd size; they soak up flavors beautifully.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin is best; it adds richness and helps keep the chicken moist.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is ideal; it brightens up the marinade wonderfully.
Garlic Cloves: Choose firm cloves; they pack a punch of flavor when minced.
Dried Oregano: This herb is essential for that authentic Mediterranean taste.
Paprika: Opt for smoked paprika to add depth to your dish.
Pine Nuts: Toasted pine nuts add crunch; feel free to substitute with almonds if needed.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor.
Fresh Parsley or Basil: These herbs bring freshness to your plate; choose one or both!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare your taste buds because it’s time to create some magic in the kitchen!

The Marinade Magic: Start by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, and smoked paprika in a bowl until blended well. The aroma will instantly transport you to a sunny Mediterranean market.

Chicken Soak Time: Place your chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or bowl and pour the marinade over them. Seal tightly or cover the bowl and let them marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—this is where the real magic happens!

Heat Things Up: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan indoors, make sure it’s nice and hot before placing the chicken down. You want those gorgeous grill marks!

Sizzle Away: Remove the chicken from the marinade (don’t discard it!) and place them on the hot grill. Cook each side for about 6-7 minutes until juices run clear and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Keep an eye out for that beautiful golden brown crust.

Add Some Crunch: Meanwhile, toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over low heat until golden brown—about 3-5 minutes—stirring frequently so they don’t burn!

The Final Touches: After removing chicken from heat, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Top with toasted pine nuts and crumbled feta cheese along with freshly chopped parsley or basil for that pop of color!

Enjoy every bite of this High Protein Mediterranean Chicken alongside roasted veggies or over a fresh salad.

This recipe doesn’t just provide fantastic flavor but also fuels your body with protein-packed goodness! Dive into this culinary adventure today!

You Must Know

This amazing Greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first to lock in juices, then cook your veggies while the chicken rests for perfect results.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Swap out herbs or add olives and feta for a unique twist on this Mediterranean delight.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently to maintain moisture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Marinating overnight enhances flavors, so plan ahead for maximum taste
Use a meat thermometer to check doneness at 165°F
Pair with a fresh salad for a complete meal that dazzles!

Cooking this High Protein Mediterranean Chicken reminds me of that time my cousin thought she could impress us all with her “fancy” grilled chicken. Spoiler alert: the smoke alarm had never been busier, but we ate it anyway and laughed until our stomachs hurt!

FAQs

FAQ

What is High Protein Mediterranean Chicken?

High Protein Mediterranean Chicken is a flavorful dish packed with protein and fresh ingredients.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add moisture and flavor, making them an excellent choice.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate your chicken for at least two hours or overnight for the best flavor infusion.

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