Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Plate

Name: Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Plate
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 1 red onion, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cups couscous, cooked; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Recipes

I absolutely love creating vibrant dishes that transport me to sunny Mediterranean shores, and this Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Plate is no exception. With tender grilled chicken marinated in a zesty blend of herbs and spices, every bite is a celebration of fresh flavors. I paired it with a colorful array of grilled vegetables and a side of fluffy couscous, making it a satisfying and healthy meal. This dish is perfect for warm evenings, bringing a taste of the Mediterranean right to my table.

Created by

Jessica Brown

Last updated on 2026-02-16T08:31:36.675Z

When I first created this Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Plate, I wanted to capture the essence of summer with its vibrant flavors and colors. The marinade is key; using ingredients like lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs not only flavors the chicken but also tenderizes it beautifully. I discovered that letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes really enhances the dish, making it juicy and flavorful.

The addition of grilled vegetables takes this meal to another level. I love how simple it is to toss zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion in olive oil and herbs before grilling them. The slight char adds a smoky flavor that complements the chicken perfectly. Each element on the plate speaks to the freshness of Mediterranean cooking!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy, marinated chicken bursting with flavor
Colorful veggies that add nutrition and crunch
A quick and easy meal perfect for weeknights

The Art of Marinating

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step that elevates the flavor profile of this dish. The combination of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with a burst of Mediterranean flavor. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes will result in a more flavorful meal, but for optimal taste, you can marinate it for several hours or even overnight in the refrigerator. Just remember to cover it tightly to prevent any cross-contamination.

One of my favorite tips for marinating is to poke small holes in the chicken breasts with a fork before adding them to the marinade. This helps the marinade penetrate deeper into the meat, ensuring that every bite is juicy and flavorful. If you're short on time, a quick 30-minute soak will still yield great results, but longer marinating times are always better for flavor depth.

Grilling Techniques for Perfecting the Chicken and Vegetables

When grilling, preheating your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat is essential for achieving those beautiful sear marks. Make sure the grill is hot enough to create a nice crust on the chicken, which not only enhances flavor but also keeps the juices locked in. Grill the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side, checking for a golden-brown color and ensuring the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F. Using a meat thermometer can take the guesswork out of cooking chicken perfectly.

For the grilled vegetables, maintaining a steady, medium-high heat ensures they become tender while developing a slight char. The key is to toss them in olive oil and seasonings before grilling, allowing the oil to help them cook evenly while preventing sticking. I recommend stirring or flipping the veggies halfway through the grilling time to ensure they cook evenly and develop that lovely caramelization that adds flavor.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Grilled Vegetables

1 zucchini, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 red onion, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

For Serving

2 cups couscous, cooked
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Vegetables

In another bowl, toss sliced zucchini, bell peppers, and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Grill the Chicken

Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and juices run clear. Remove from grill and let rest.

Grill the Vegetables

On the same grill, add the prepared vegetables. Grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side until tender and slightly charred.

Serve

Slice the grilled chicken and arrange it on a plate with grilled vegetables and couscous. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Pro Tips

For an added layer of flavor, try marinating the chicken overnight. You can also customize the vegetables based on what’s in season or your personal preferences.

Substitutions and Variations

If you're looking to switch things up, consider using different proteins for this dish. Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs could add more flavor and richness, while shrimp or firm fish, such as swordfish, can pair beautifully with the same marinade. For a vegetarian version, marinated portobello mushrooms or eggplant slices would grill nicely in place of the chicken.

Don’t hesitate to play around with the vegetables, too. Asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or even corn on the cob could be excellent choices when in season, bringing their unique textures and flavors to the dish. Just keep in mind their respective cooking times to ensure everything is perfectly grilled.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

This Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Plate is wonderfully versatile when it comes to serving options. Serve it on a bed of leafy greens drizzled with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing salad or pair it with some tzatziki on the side for added creaminess. The flavors also go well with a side of pita bread or a simple yogurt sauce if you want to have a more complete Mediterranean experience.

For leftovers, store the grilled chicken and vegetables separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently on the stove or in the microwave, taking care not to overcook the chicken, which can lead to dryness. You can also freeze the marinated chicken before grilling; just be sure to thaw it completely in the fridge before cooking to maintain the best texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, bone-in chicken can be used; just adjust the cooking time to ensure it's fully cooked.

→ What can I serve with the Mediterranean grilled chicken plate?

You can serve it with a side salad, tzatziki sauce, or pita bread for a complete meal.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate and grill the chicken and vegetables ahead of time, then reheat before serving.

→ What other vegetables work well in this dish?

Other great options include asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or eggplant.