Grilled Greek Chicken Breasts with Whipped Feta Recipe

Grilled Greek Chicken Breasts with Whipped Feta Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Grilled Greek chicken breasts with whipped feta is a dish that, while simple, brings a delightful balance of flavors. The juicy chicken pairs perfectly with the creamy feta spread, making it a standout meal for any occasion. This recipe is not just about the chicken it's about the whipped feta, which has quickly become a must-try. Whether you enjoy it on the side, as a spread, or a dip, its something you'll want to make in large quantities and enjoy with everything.

The marinade for the chicken is a simple but flavorful mix of Greek herbs and spices, soaking into the chicken and leaving it tender and juicy once grilled. Even if youre not the biggest fan of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, this recipe will likely change your mind. Feel free to substitute the chicken parts if needed, but trust me, youll want to try this version.

Ingredients

Chicken and Marinade:

  • 4 (8 ounce) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • cup red wine vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • teaspoon dried thyme
  • teaspoon dried oregano
  • teaspoon dried rosemary
  • teaspoon garlic powder
  • teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • cup olive oil (and more as needed)

Whipped Feta:

  • 1 cup full-fat Greek yogurt
  • 8 ounces feta cheese
  • 3 tablespoons chopped fresh mint, divided
  • 1 teaspoon finely minced garlic (or to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons chopped Italian (flat-leaf) parsley

Directions

Step 1: Prepare all ingredients. Start by cutting the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to ensure quicker and more even grilling.

Step 2: In a large glass or ceramic bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, salt, pepper, thyme, oregano, rosemary, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Once well combined, add the chicken and toss it to coat thoroughly.

Step 3: Add cup of olive oil to the chicken, tossing again to ensure an even coating. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to marinate for 1 to 12 hours. If possible, aim for 2 to 3 hours of marinating for optimal flavor.

Step 4: While the chicken marinates, prepare the whipped feta. In a separate bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and crumbled feta cheese. Add 1 tablespoon of the chopped mint, minced garlic, and lemon zest, then whip using an electric mixer or whisk until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 5: Preheat your outdoor grill until the coals are white and very hot. Lightly oil the grill grate to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook the chicken for about 4 minutes per side, flipping it occasionally, until it is no longer pink in the center and reaches an internal temperature of 150F (65C). After grilling, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes off the heat.

Step 7: Spread a generous layer of the whipped feta on a serving platter or individual plates. Arrange the grilled chicken over the feta.

Step 8: Garnish the chicken and feta with the remaining 2 tablespoons of chopped mint and parsley for a fresh, colorful finish.

Cooks Note

You can experiment with different types of vinegar or dried herbs, depending on what you have on hand. Fresh herbs work wonderfully in this recipe as well. The whipped feta also makes an excellent spread for grilled vegetables, bread, or crackers.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

  • Calories: 606
  • Total Fat: 35g (45% DV)
  • Saturated Fat: 14g (69% DV)
  • Cholesterol: 194mg (65% DV)
  • Sodium: 1775mg (77% DV)
  • Total Carbohydrate: 7g (3% DV)
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g (2% DV)
  • Protein: 64g (128% DV)
  • Potassium: 666mg (14% DV)

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs.

Grilled Greek Chicken Breasts with Whipped Feta Recipe

Comments

Linda Rivera

12/06/2024 12:56:34 AM

I decided to use a whole spatchcocked chicken instead of just the breasts for this recipe. The marinade is made from basic pantry ingredients, which is convenient. Pro tip for lazy cooks: I mixed the extra whipped feta with more yogurt to create a salad dressing for a salad with the leftover chicken. I used romaine lettuce, olives, cucumbers, tomatoes, pickled onions, and a few pepper rings to whip up an easy second meal. Thanks to Chef John for the inspiration.

Brian Perez

08/20/2024 04:31:14 PM

The best Greek chicken I have ever cooked! The marinade was absolutely fantastic, especially when you drizzle olive oil over the chicken after it's been soaking for about a minute. The feta spread also worked wonderfully as a sauce for the chicken.

Angela Thompson

07/09/2023 05:25:01 PM

Excellent with minimal preparation. I will definitely be making this again.

Patricia Lopez

03/16/2024 11:47:29 AM

So tasty!