This Very Greek Grilled Chicken brings the vibrant flavors of Greek Chicken Souvlaki right to your grill. Perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or meal prep, this recipe is packed with zesty lemon and aromatic spices. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare and how versatile it can be, serving as a delicious main dish or a protein-packed salad topping.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: Infused with lemon and Greek spices, each bite bursts with Mediterranean goodness.
- Easy Preparation: With minimal ingredients and simple steps, even novice cooks can impress their guests.
- Versatile Uses: Enjoy as a main course, in salads, or as filling for wraps and tacos.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this grilled chicken fits perfectly in various diets.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time for quick lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation
To make Very Greek Grilled Chicken, you will need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly while grilling.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Ziploc bag
- Colander
- Instant-Read Meat Thermometer
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: The key equipment for achieving perfect grill marks and smoky flavor.
- Ziploc Bag: Ideal for marinating chicken evenly without mess.
- Colander: Helps drain excess marinade before grilling for better texture.
- Instant-Read Meat Thermometer: Ensures your chicken is cooked safely to perfection.
Ingredients
This Very Greek Grilled Chicken has all the flavors of Greek Chicken Souvlaki in a grilled chicken breast.
For the Chicken
- 8 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Marinade
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup fresh-squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tsp. (or more) fresh lemon zest (see notes)
- 1 tsp. Greek Seasoning
- 1 tsp. poultry seasoning
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- black pepper to taste
How to Make Very Greek Grilled Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- If you’re not that experienced grilling chicken, you might want to read How to Make Juicy Grilled Chicken Breasts before you make this.
- Trim all visible fat and membranes from chicken breasts.
- Make small crosswise slits about 1/2 inch apart down the length of each chicken breast to help the marinade penetrate.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- Place chicken in a single layer in a Ziploc bag.
- Combine olive oil, fresh-squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, Greek Seasoning, Poultry Seasoning, Dried Greek Oregano, and black pepper in a bowl to create the marinade.
- Pour marinade over chicken in the Ziploc bag and seal tightly.
- Marinate chicken in the refrigerator for 6-8 hours or all day if desired.
Step 3: Prepare to Grill
- When ready to cook, dump chicken and marinade into a colander placed in the sink to drain.
- Allow it to come to room temperature if you have time.
- Spray the grill with non-stick spray or oil; preheat it to medium-high heat.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
- Place chicken on grill top side down on a diagonal against the grill grates; cook for about 4 minutes or until grill marks appear.
- Rotate chicken pieces diagonally the other way; cook for another 4 minutes until criss-cross grill marks are visible.
- Turn chicken over and cook for an additional 4-8 minutes until firm but not hard when pressed lightly.
Step 5: Check Doneness
- Use an Instant-Read Meat Thermometer; grilled chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165F/75C for safe consumption.
Step 6: Serve
Even if you’re cooking for just a few people, making the whole recipe is worthwhile! Leftover Very Greek Grilled Chicken works wonderfully sliced atop salads or mixed into stir-fried vegetables for quick lunches.
How to Serve Very Greek Grilled Chicken
Very Greek Grilled Chicken is versatile and pairs well with many dishes. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
On a Salad
- A refreshing Greek salad topped with diced Very Greek Grilled Chicken, feta cheese, olives, and a drizzle of olive oil makes for a light and nutritious meal.
In a Pita
- Stuff warm pita bread with sliced grilled chicken, fresh veggies, and tzatziki sauce for a quick and tasty lunch option.
With Roasted Vegetables
- Serve the chicken alongside roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes for a colorful plate.
As Tacos
- Use the grilled chicken in soft or hard-shell tacos. Add avocado, salsa, and cilantro for a Mediterranean twist on Mexican cuisine.
In Rice Bowls
- Create a rice bowl featuring brown or cauliflower rice topped with the chicken, sautéed spinach, and a squeeze of lemon for added brightness.
Over Quinoa
- Pair the Very Greek Grilled Chicken with quinoa cooked in vegetable broth. Top with fresh herbs for an extra flavor boost.
How to Perfect Very Greek Grilled Chicken
Perfecting your Very Greek Grilled Chicken comes down to technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your chicken is juicy and flavorful.
- Marinate longer: The longer you marinate the chicken (up to 24 hours), the more flavorful it will be.
- Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh lemon juice and zest along with high-quality olive oil to enhance the taste.
- Preheat your grill: A hot grill helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and prevents sticking.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill: Leave space between chicken pieces to allow even cooking.
- Let it rest: Allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes after grilling before slicing. This helps retain juices.
- Use a thermometer: Ensure safety by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165F/75C.
Best Side Dishes for Very Greek Grilled Chicken
Pairing sides with your Very Greek Grilled Chicken can make your meal complete. Here are some excellent options:
- Tzatziki Sauce: A creamy cucumber yogurt dip that adds freshness and moisture to each bite.
- Greek Potatoes: Roasted potatoes seasoned with lemon and oregano complement the grilled flavors perfectly.
- Tabbouleh Salad: A refreshing parsley-based salad that adds a bright contrast to the rich chicken.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus provides both color and crunch alongside your main dish.
- Feta Cheese Crumbles: Sprinkle feta over your grilled chicken or salad for a salty boost of flavor.
- Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with olives and sun-dried tomatoes offers a hearty side.
- Stuffed Grape Leaves: These tasty bites filled with rice and herbs add an authentic touch to your meal.
- Roasted Beet Salad: Earthy beets combined with goat cheese create a delicious counterpoint to the chicken’s flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Very Greek Grilled Chicken, avoiding common mistakes can ensure a flavorful and juicy result. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the marinade time: Marinating the chicken for at least 6 hours allows the flavors to penetrate deeply. If you’re short on time, consider increasing lemon juice for quicker flavor infusion.
- Not preheating the grill: Failing to preheat can lead to sticking and uneven cooking. Always heat your grill to medium-high before adding the chicken.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long results in dryness. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165F/75C.
- Using low-quality olive oil: The quality of olive oil affects flavor. Choose extra virgin olive oil for the best taste in your marinade.
- Ignoring resting time: Letting the chicken rest after grilling keeps it juicy. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store grilled chicken in an airtight container.
- It lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Very Greek Grilled Chicken
- Place cooked chicken in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Very Greek Grilled Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth, covering until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Very Greek Grilled Chicken:
Can I use thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless thighs. They tend to be juicier and will absorb the marinade well.
How do I know when my Very Greek Grilled Chicken is done?
Use an instant-read thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165F/75C for safe consumption.
Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating overnight enhances flavor even more. Just ensure you don’t exceed 24 hours.
What can I serve with Very Greek Grilled Chicken?
Pair it with a Greek salad, tzatziki sauce, or serve it in pita wraps for a delicious meal.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Very Greek Grilled Chicken is perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in portions for easy lunches throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
Very Greek Grilled Chicken is a delightful recipe that combines the vibrant flavors of Greece with the simplicity of grilled chicken. Its versatility allows you to enjoy it in various dishes, from salads to tacos. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs or spices!

Very Greek Grilled Chicken
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Very Greek Grilled Chicken is a delightful way to bring the vibrant flavors of Greek cuisine to your dinner table. This recipe features juicy chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and aromatic herbs like oregano and parsley. Perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or meal prep, this grilled chicken can be enjoyed as a stand-alone dish, atop salads, or stuffed in pitas. With its easy preparation and versatility, it’s an ideal choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs looking to impress. Get ready to savor each mouthwatering bite of this Mediterranean-inspired delight.
Ingredients
- 8 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup fresh-squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tsp. lemon zest
- 1 tsp. Greek seasoning
- 1 tsp. poultry seasoning
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Trim fat from chicken breasts and make small slits on each breast.
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Greek seasoning, poultry seasoning, oregano, and black pepper to create the marinade.
- Place chicken in a Ziploc bag and pour the marinade over it; seal and refrigerate for 6-8 hours.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and drain excess liquid.
- Grill chicken for about 4 minutes on each side until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165F/75C).
- Allow chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 80 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg