Grilled Oregano Chicken (Kotopoulo Riganato tes Skaras)
Description: Dive into the delectable world of Greek cuisine with this Grilled Oregano Chicken, also known as Kotopoulo Riganato tes Skaras. This recipe is a culinary delight, offering a simple yet flavorful experience with every bite. Perfect for a quick dinner or a special gathering, it combines the vibrant notes of oregano and thyme with the rich taste of grilled chicken. The process is straightforward, making it accessible even for busy weeknights. For an extra touch of authenticity, consider sourcing your oregano from a health food store where you can find bulk spices at a more affordable price. This recipe’s versatility also allows it to be broiled if grilling isn’t an option. Enjoy this savory dish that embodies the essence of Greek flavor!
Ingredients:
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup olive oil
- ½ cup lemon juice
- ¼ cup dried oregano leaves
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon fresh ground pepper
Preparation Time: 10 minutes (excluding marinating time)
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Instructions:
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Begin by rinsing the chicken breasts under cold water. Gently pat them dry using paper towels. Place the chicken breasts into a large zip-lock bag, ensuring they are well spaced and not overcrowded.
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In a separate jar, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano leaves, dried thyme leaves, salt, and fresh ground pepper. Secure the lid on the jar and shake vigorously until all the ingredients are thoroughly mixed. This will create your flavorful marinade.
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Set aside a portion of the marinade to brush onto the chicken while grilling. This will enhance the flavor and help keep the chicken moist. Pour the remaining marinade into the zip-lock bag with the chicken.
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Seal the bag tightly, removing as much air as possible. Gently massage the marinade into the chicken to ensure it is evenly coated. Place the bag in the refrigerator and allow the chicken to marinate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. This marinating time allows the flavors to fully infuse into the chicken.
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When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to a medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are hot and have a nice, even layer of gray ash. Position the grill rack 6 to 8 inches above the hot coals.
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Remove the chicken from the marinade, discarding the used marinade in the bag. Place the chicken breasts on the grill. Cook them for approximately 20 to 25 minutes, turning occasionally and basting with the reserved marinade. The chicken should be grilled until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and has a nice char on the outside.
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Alternatively, if you prefer broiling, preheat your oven’s broiler. Place the chicken breasts on a broiler pan or a rack set over a baking sheet. Broil the chicken, skin side down, for 30 minutes. Afterward, turn the chicken over and broil for an additional 10 to 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has a golden-brown appearance.
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Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill or broiler and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy.
Servings: 4
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 638.2
- Fat: 47.7 g
- Saturated Fat: 9.7 g
- Cholesterol: 139.2 mg
- Sodium: 720.2 mg
- Carbohydrates: 6.4 g
- Fiber: 2.6 g
- Sugar: 1 g
- Protein: 46.1 g
This Grilled Oregano Chicken is a fantastic way to enjoy a taste of Greece in the comfort of your own home. With its savory, herb-infused flavors and simple preparation, it’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or broiling indoors, this dish is sure to impress with its rich, aromatic taste and perfect tenderness. Bon appétit! 🌿🍗
