Created on December 12th, 2025 at 04:03 pm
Zesty Salmoriglio chicken
Chicken Salmoriglio, or Grilled Chicken with Salmoriglio Sauce, is a delightful dish that embodies the flavors of the Mediterranean. The star of this recipe is the Salmoriglio sauce, a vibrant blend of lemon, herbs, and olive oil, which complements the tenderness of the grilled chicken. This sauce captures the essence of sunny days and gatherings, making each bite refreshing and aromatic.
The grilled chicken itself is juicy and lightly charred, creating a pleasing texture that’s both comforting and satisfying. With the bright tang of lemon and the warm aroma of fresh herbs, this dish is perfect for casual dinners or as part of a larger meal. It’s simple enough to make on a weeknight yet impressive enough to serve to guests, striking just the right balance between ease and elegance.
The warmth of the chicken combined with the zesty Salmoriglio elevates a standard grilled chicken dish into something more memorable. Whether served alongside seasonal vegetables or a light salad, this recipe invites you to savor the flavors of the season.
Why This Recipe Works
The beauty of Chicken Salmoriglio lies in its simplicity and the freshness of its ingredients. The chicken is marinated in a mix that allows it to soak up flavors, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy. Grilling the chicken not only enhances its flavor but also adds a delightful outer crispness that contrasts with its succulent interior.
Another appealing aspect of this recipe is its versatility. The Salmoriglio sauce can be adapted with different herbs or flavored oils according to your taste or seasonal availability. This dish is a joy to prepare and can be served hot off the grill or enjoyed cold the next day for a refreshing lunch. Its fresh flavors make it a perfect addition to summer barbecues or a simple weeknight dinner, proving that wholesome meals can indeed be uncomplicated.
Serving Idea: Leftovers make for excellent wraps or salads, maintaining their vibrant flavors while offering a satisfying meal for the busy days ahead.
Time Breakdown
This recipe is quick to prepare and cooks in minimal time, making it an excellent choice for busy evenings. The majority of the cooking is hands-off while the chicken grills, allowing you to focus on preparing a side dish or simply relaxing.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients List
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 Tbsp dried)
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Kitchen Tools
This recipe requires only basic kitchen tools that make cooking straightforward and enjoyable.
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
Step-by-Step Instructions
Start by marinating the chicken. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, parsley, and oregano. Reserve a small amount of the marinade for serving later. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, heat it over medium heat and lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking.
Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off excess liquid. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6–7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Look for beautiful grill marks and a slight char for added flavor.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill. Let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. This resting period helps maintain the chicken’s moisture.
Serve the grilled chicken drizzled with the reserved Salmoriglio marinade. Consider garnishing with more fresh herbs and lemon wedges to enhance the presentation and flavor.
Pro Tips
- Marinate the chicken longer, up to 2 hours, for enhanced flavor.
- Ensure the grill is properly preheated to create a nice sear on the chicken.
- If you prefer a less spicy dish, feel free to reduce the amount of red pepper flakes.
- This dish pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables or a simple green salad.
- To reheat leftovers, consider grilling again briefly to revive texture and flavor.
Fresh and Flavorful Fare
Chicken Salmoriglio is a dish that beautifully highlights the approachability of flavorful cooking. With its bright, well-rounded flavors, this grilled chicken dish is an excellent option for any meal. It not only satisfies hunger but also brings a touch of fresh elegance to the table. Whether enjoying it hot off the grill or as part of a lunch the next day, this meal will certainly find its place in your cooking repertoire.
What to Serve With Chicken Salmoriglio
Pairing sides with Chicken Salmoriglio can elevate your meal and balance its flavors perfectly. Consider serving it alongside a light arugula salad dressed simply with olive oil and lemon to complement the chicken’s brightness. The peppery notes of the arugula contrast wonderfully with the tender chicken and herbaceous sauce.
Another excellent pairing is grilled seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus. Their slightly smoky flavor from grilling harmonizes beautifully with the Salmoriglio sauce. You can toss the veggies in a bit of the marinade before grilling for an added layer of flavor.
For a heartier option, serve the chicken with a side of herbed quinoa or couscous, which will absorb the vibrant juices, creating a delightful, wholesome dish. A chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea can enhance the overall experience, making this meal perfect for warm-weather gatherings or simple family dinners.
Nutrition Table
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Carbohydrates | 3 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Grilled Chicken with Salmoriglio Sauce
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 Tbsp dried)
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- to serve Optional: lemon wedges For serving
Instructions
Preparation
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, parsley, and oregano. Reserve a small amount of the marinade for serving later.
- Add the chicken breasts to the bowl, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes.
Grilling
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, heat it over medium heat and lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off excess liquid. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6–7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
Serving
- Serve the grilled chicken drizzled with the reserved Salmoriglio marinade, garnished with more fresh herbs and lemon wedges.
Notes
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