Mediterranean Herb Crusted Grilled Chicken is a fresh, vibrant dish packed with aromatic herbs, garlic, and bright olive oil flavor. A simple herb crust made from parsley, oregano, and rosemary creates a fragrant coating that crisps beautifully on the grill. Juicy on the inside and lightly charred on the outside, this chicken is perfect for summer barbecues, healthy dinners, or meal prep throughout the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Mediterranean Flavor – Loaded with aromatic herbs and garlic.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 35 minutes.
• Healthy & Protein-Packed – Lean, satisfying, and nutritious.
• Perfect for Grilling Season – Great for BBQs and outdoor gatherings.
• Versatile Serving Options – Pairs well with salads, rice, or wraps.
• Simple Ingredients – Fresh staples with big flavor payoff.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken

• 4 chicken breasts – Lean and juicy (thighs can be used for richer flavor).

For the Herb Mixture

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley – Adds brightness (use one-third amount if dried).
• 2 tablespoons fresh oregano – Provides earthy Mediterranean flavor.
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary – Adds bold, pine-like aroma.
• 3 cloves garlic – Deepens savory notes (garlic powder can substitute).

For Cooking & Garnish

• 1/4 cup olive oil – Helps bind herbs and create crust.
• 2 lemon wedges – Adds fresh citrus finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Herb Mixture
Finely chop parsley, oregano, and rosemary. In a mixing bowl, combine herbs with olive oil and minced garlic until a thick, fragrant paste forms.

Coat the Chicken
Rub the herb mixture generously over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated on all sides.

Preheat the Grill
Heat grill to medium-high. Clean and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Grill the Chicken
Place chicken on the grill and cook for 6–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Rest and Serve
Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes to retain juices. Garnish with lemon wedges and additional fresh herbs if desired.

Recipe Notes & Tips

• Bring Chicken to Room Temperature – Let sit 20–30 minutes before grilling for even cooking.
• Use a Meat Thermometer – Ensures perfectly cooked, safe chicken.
• Don’t Overcook – Remove promptly at 165°F to prevent dryness.
• Fresh Herbs Work Best – Provide the most vibrant flavor.
• Add Zest – Lemon zest in the herb mix adds extra brightness.

Nutritional Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Resting Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 290 calories per serving

Additional Nutrition (per serving):
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 120mg
Potassium: 500mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Vitamin A: 600 IU
Vitamin C: 5mg
Calcium: 30mg
Iron: 1mg

Perfect Pairings

• Greek salad
• Lemon rice
• Grilled vegetables
• Warm pita bread with hummus

Ideal Occasions

• Summer cookouts
• Healthy weeknight dinners
• Meal prep for the week
• Outdoor gatherings

Storage & Serving Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Slice and use in wraps, salads, or grain bowls.
• Reheat gently to avoid drying out.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Creative Variations to Try

• Spicy Mediterranean – Add red pepper flakes to the herb mix.
• Yogurt Marinade Version – Mix herbs into Greek yogurt for a creamy marinade.
• Lemon Garlic Boost – Add lemon zest and extra garlic.
• Balsamic Finish – Drizzle lightly with balsamic glaze before serving.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Chicken sticking to grill – Ensure grates are well-oiled.
• Chicken dry – Avoid overcooking; allow proper resting time.
• Herb crust falling off – Press mixture firmly onto chicken.
• Uneven cooking – Pound chicken to even thickness before grilling.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of olive oil and fresh herbs creates a protective coating that locks in moisture while forming a flavorful crust. Grilling at medium-high heat encourages caramelization, enhancing flavor through light charring. Resting the chicken after cooking allows juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy.

Final Thoughts

Mediterranean Herb Crusted Grilled Chicken is a fresh, flavorful, and healthy dish that’s as simple as it is satisfying. With bright herbs, zesty lemon, and perfectly grilled chicken, it’s a recipe you’ll return to all summer long.