Description
Juicy grilled chicken breasts coated in a savory crust of fresh Mediterranean herbs, garlic, and lemon. This easy, healthy dinner is packed with flavor and comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or summer gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs/680g)
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped (about 15g)
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, finely chopped (about 5g)
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (about 2g)
- 3 large garlic cloves, minced
- Zest of 1 large lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 30ml)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (about 45ml)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (about 6g)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper (about 1g)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (about 1g, optional)
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
- Crumbled feta cheese, for serving (optional)
- Chopped fresh mint, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine parsley, oregano, rosemary, minced garlic, lemon zest, smoked paprika (if using), olive oil, lemon juice, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir until a thick, fragrant paste forms.
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If thick, slice in half horizontally for even cooking.
- Rub the herb mixture all over the chicken, pressing gently so it sticks. Let rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes (or refrigerate up to 4 hours).
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high (about 400°F). Oil the grates or spray grill pan to prevent sticking.
- Place chicken herb-side down on the hot grill. Cook for 5-6 minutes without moving, then flip and grill another 4-6 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Transfer chicken to a plate, tent with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Slice and serve with lemon wedges, crumbled feta, and fresh mint if desired.
Notes
If herbs begin to darken too much, move chicken to indirect heat or lower the temperature. Letting the chicken rest after grilling ensures juiciness. The herb crust may stick to the grill; use a thin spatula or tongs to gently lift. Marinate longer for deeper flavor. For oven-baked version, roast at 400°F for 18-22 minutes, flipping once.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (about 6 oz cooked)
- Calories: 290
- Sodium: 620
- Fat: 13
- Saturated Fat: 2.5
- Carbohydrates: 3
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 34
Keywords: grilled chicken, Mediterranean, herb crusted, healthy dinner, gluten-free, easy chicken recipe, summer grilling, protein, lemon chicken, parsley, oregano, rosemary, garlic, olive oil