Mediterranean Grilled Whole Chicken Recipe

Summer in our family is synonymous with barbecues. There’s always a debate between those who are 100% committed to the charcoal grill and those like myself who prefer a more straightforward, easier-to-clean gas grill. This whole grilled chicken with Mediterranean flavors is my go-to, guaranteeing a flavorsome, crispy skin and a stunning presentation.

One of the best parts? It’s straightforward to make. There’s no need to worry about overcooking or drying out the bird. With a bit of preparation, you’ll quickly master this grilling technique, becoming the star of your next summer BBQ.

I often grill this chicken alongside red onions, zucchini, and fennel for a delightful medley of flavors. Serve it with a refreshing Fattoush salad, and you’ve got the perfect summer meal. Get ready to explore this exciting recipe that transforms a simple grilled whole chicken into a Mediterranean delight.

Simple Mediterranean Chicken Marinade

Unlock the magic of this grilled chicken using Mediterranean spices for chicken, including olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and an array of dry herbs, including home-grown zaatar (or thyme), mingle to create a tantalizing flavor profile. Let your organic chicken bathe in this medley overnight for maximum flavor. Using a larger bird? Add some vinegar to tenderize the meat naturally.

How to Prep and Spatchcock Chicken for Grilling

Before the marinade comes into play, clean your chicken with salt and vinegar, rinse, and pat dry. Next up is spatchcocking, a technique to remove the backbone and flatten the chicken for even grilling and deeper marination. Simply cut along both sides of the backbone, flip, and press down on the breastbone until flat.

Easy Overnight Chicken Marinade

Post-spatchcocking, introduce the chicken to the marinade in a zip-lock bag, ensuring total coverage. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or ideally overnight. Turning occasionally for a fair flavor share. Half an hour pre-grill, remove the chicken to let it adjust to room temperature. Now, your grill-ready chicken awaits, promising a flavor-packed Mediterranean Grilled Whole Chicken masterpiece at your BBQ!

Essential Guidelines for Grilling Chicken to Perfection

Achieving a perfectly grilled whole chicken is an art mastered with the right method. Indirect grilling is key, a technique that cooks the chicken not directly over but next to the heat source. This ensures even cooking, perfectly browned skin, and a succulent bird.

 Preheat the Grill

Kick-off by preheating your grill. If you’re using a gas grill, ignite the burners on both sides, leaving the middle unlit, aiming for a temperature around 375-400°F. For charcoal grills, arrange the coals on opposite sides of the grill, leaving the middle empty.

 Position the Chicken

After marinating, remove your chicken from the bag, discarding any leftover marinade. Place the chicken in the center of the grill grate, away from the direct heat on either side, with the breast side up. Much like my off-heat BBQ ribs recipe, this indirect grilling technique ensures an even cook and a tender, juicy result.

 Monitor the Temperature

Close the grill lid and let the chicken cook undisturbed. Though cooking time can be roughly estimated at 15 minutes per pound, it’s crucial to use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Target an internal temperature between 157-160°F in the thickest part of the chicken, ensuring the probe doesn’t touch the bone. This allows for carryover cooking, preventing the bird from being overcooked.

 Rest, Carve, and Serve

Once the chicken has achieved the correct internal temperature, take it off the grill and rest for around 10-15 minutes. This crucial rest period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist, tender chicken.

After resting, carve your grilled whole chicken and serve alongside your favorite Mediterranean sides. Now, enjoy the fruits of your successful BBQ endeavor!

What to Serve with Your BBQ Chicken

While your grilled  Mediterranean  Chicken is the show’s star, pairing it with complementary sides elevates your BBQ meal into a full Mediterranean feast. Kick things off with a selection of char-grilled vegetables like grilled eggplants, zucchinis, and corn on the cob. Simply brushed with olive oil, seasoned with salt and pepper, and grilled alongside your chicken, these veggies bring a delightful smoky flavor to your table.

Complement your feast with traditional Mediterranean dips like Toum, a creamy Lebanese garlic dip, and Hummus, a smooth chickpea spread; both add layers of rich, robust flavors that match wonderfully with your succulent grilled chicken. Finally, round off your meal with a refreshing Fattoush Salad. This Lebanese classic, featuring crispy toasted bread, a medley of fresh veggies, and a tangy sumac dressing, offers a crisp contrast to your BBQ and a delightful palate cleanser. It’s a delightful spread that encapsulates the vibrant flavors of a Mediterranean summer.