Mediterranean Aioli Grilled Chicken

Name: Mediterranean Aioli Grilled Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Olive oil for grilling; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Culinary Recipe Ideas

I love grilling, and this Mediterranean Aioli Grilled Chicken has become one of my go-to recipes for summer cookouts. The combination of juicy chicken and a flavorful aioli made with garlic and herbs creates a perfect balance of taste that I can't resist. The vibrant Mediterranean flavors transport me to sunnier days, and it's surprisingly easy to whip up the aioli. Serve it alongside grilled vegetables or a fresh salad, and you have a meal that everyone will enjoy. It's a delightful way to bring a taste of the Mediterranean to my backyard!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-20T11:18:27.965Z

Making this Mediterranean Aioli Grilled Chicken was a revelation for me! I experimented with different herb combinations and found that fresh oregano and parsley really elevate the simple aioli into something extraordinary. The key is letting the chicken marinate in the aioli for at least 30 minutes; this allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in moist and tender meat that bursts with flavor.

Grilling the chicken over medium-high heat is essential. I discovered that searing it quickly locks in the juices and creates a beautiful char that I love. Pairing the chicken with a light lemon salad not only complements the dish but also adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the aioli, making it a perfect summer meal!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich garlic flavor that enhances the chicken
Perfectly grilled for a crispy outside and juicy inside
Easy to prepare and great for a crowd

      

The Essence of Aioli

Aioli is not just a sauce; it's the heart of this Mediterranean Grilled Chicken. The balance of mayonnaise with the vibrant garlic and herbs provides a rich creaminess that complements the grilled chicken perfectly. The fresh lemon juice in the aioli brightens the overall flavor, enhancing the chicken's natural juiciness without overpowering it. When mixed, make sure to achieve that smooth consistency, free of lumps, which signifies that the aioli is ready to elevate your dish.

One of my favorite secrets to a stellar aioli is using fresh herbs. Fresh parsley and oregano not only add color but infuse the aioli with aromatic notes that transport you straight to the Mediterranean. If you find yourself without fresh herbs, you can substitute dried ones, though I recommend using about one-third of the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated. Regardless, this simple sauce can dramatically enhance the flavor profile of any grilled meat.

Perfecting Grilled Chicken

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step in this recipe that should not be skipped. The aioli serves as a marinade that not only flavors the chicken but also helps to keep it moist during grilling. I recommend marinating for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, letting it sit for up to 2 hours will amplify the flavors even more. Just ensure the chicken is covered properly to avoid any exposure that could lead to drying out.

When grilling, the key lies in temperature management. Preheating your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 450°F) allows the chicken to sear properly and form those appealing grill marks. An initial sear for about 6-7 minutes on each side is typically ideal. If you find the outside is getting too brown but the inside isn’t cooked through, move it to a cooler section of the grill or reduce the heat slightly to avoid charring while still cooking it thoroughly.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients needed for this delicious grilled chicken.

For the Aioli

1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Olive oil for grilling
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Mediterranean Aioli Grilled Chicken.

Prepare the Aioli

In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth, then set aside.

Marinate the Chicken

Place chicken breasts in a resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour half of the aioli mix over the chicken, making sure it's well-coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and brush the grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Grill the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess aioli drip off. Season with salt and pepper. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.

Serve

Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then serve with the remaining aioli and your choice of sides.

Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean Aioli Grilled Chicken!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some red pepper flakes to the aioli. This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled asparagus or a quinoa salad.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider pairing the Mediterranean Aioli Grilled Chicken with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus. The slight char from grilling complements the tenderness of the chicken, creating a wonderful balance. Alternatively, you could opt for a fresh salad with a lemon vinaigrette that mirrors the flavors in the aioli, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken.

You can also serve the chicken sliced on a platter with extra aioli drizzled on top for a beautiful presentation. If you're feeling adventurous, try serving it with pita bread or in a wrap with fresh greens. This not only enhances the meal experience but makes for a fantastic option for picnics or outdoor gatherings as well.

Storing and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, store the grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The aioli can also be kept separately in the fridge, maintaining its flavor and freshness. When reheating the chicken, do so gently in the microwave or on low heat in a skillet to avoid drying it out, ensuring it remains juicy and tender.

For meal prep enthusiasts, consider grilling a larger batch. You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it as described earlier. This way, you have a quick, flavorful meal ready at your fingertips, making busy weeknights much easier.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This aioli works wonderfully with fish or shrimp.

→ How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinating for at least 30 minutes is ideal, but longer is better for more flavor.

→ Can I prepare the aioli in advance?

Yes, you can make the aioli a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator.

→ What can I serve with this grilled chicken?

Pair it with a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or quinoa for a complete meal.