Mediterranean Chicken Bites

Mediterranean Chicken Bites are the perfect dish for any occasion. These juicy, tender bites come marinated in a flavorful Mediterranean mix that will impress your guests at gatherings or make a delightful weeknight dinner. They are quick to prepare and can be served as an appetizer, main course, or even as a part of a meal prep plan! With their vibrant flavors and easy cooking method, these chicken bites stand out as a must-try recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 80 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of Hidden Valley® Simply Ranch: Cucumber Basil Ranch and fresh herbs creates a deliciously unique taste that enhances the chicken.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these Mediterranean Chicken Bites with various sides like grilled vegetables, rice, or salad for a complete meal.
• Health-Conscious Choice: Packed with protein and low in carbs, these bites fit well within many healthy eating plans.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties or barbecues, everyone will love the juicy flavors of these chicken bites.

Tools and Preparation

To make Mediterranean Chicken Bites efficiently, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment on hand makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Outdoor grill
• Mixing bowl
• Marinade brush
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Outdoor grill: Essential for achieving the perfect char marks and smoky flavor on your chicken bites.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows for easy mixing of the marinade ingredients with the chicken.
• Marinade brush: Helps evenly coat the chicken with olive oil while grilling for added moisture.
• Tongs: Perfect for flipping the chicken pieces during grilling without losing juice.

Ingredients

Mediterranean Chicken Bites – juicy, tender and the most flavorful chicken bites with Mediterranean marinade. So easy to make and delicious.

For the Chicken Bites

• 1 lb (500g) skinless and boneless chicken breasts (cut into cubes)
• 1 tablespoon Hidden Valley® Simply Ranch: Cucumber Basil Ranch (plus more for dipping)
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh oregano
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 dashes cayenne pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (+ 1 tablespoon for grilling)

For Garnish

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (optional)
• lemon wedges (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Bites

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the Hidden Valley® Simply Ranch: Cucumber Basil Ranch, finely chopped oregano, lemon juice, salt, cayenne pepper, and olive oil.
2. Add the cubed chicken breasts to the bowl. Toss until all pieces are well coated in the marinade.
3. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for 1 hour to absorb all those delicious flavors.

Step 2: Preheat Your Grill

1. While waiting for the chicken to marinate, preheat your outdoor grill over medium-high heat.
2. Ensure that your grill grates are clean to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

1. Once marinated, remove the chicken from the refrigerator.
2. Brush olive oil on both sides of each chicken piece to keep them moist while grilling.
3. Place the marinated chicken on the grill; cook each side until nice char marks form—about 5 minutes per side.
4. If using cherry tomatoes, add them to the grill during the last few minutes—grill until they are slightly plump but not bursting.

Step 4: Serve

1. Once cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F), remove from the grill.
2. Serve hot with additional Hidden Valley® Simply Ranch: Cucumber Basil Ranch as a dipping sauce alongside lemon wedges and grilled cherry tomatoes if desired.

Enjoy your savory Mediterranean Chicken Bites!

How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Bites

Mediterranean Chicken Bites are not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve them in various ways to enhance your meal experience and impress your guests.

With Fresh Salads

• Greek Salad: Toss together cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, olives, and feta cheese for a refreshing side.
• Arugula Salad: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the chicken bites beautifully.

As Appetizers

• Skewered Appetizers: Serve Mediterranean Chicken Bites on skewers with cherry tomatoes and bell peppers for easy eating.
• Dip Platter: Arrange plates of Hidden Valley® Simply Ranch: Cucumber Basil Ranch alongside an assortment of fresh veggies for dipping.

On a Bed of Rice

• Lemon Rice: A fluffy lemon-infused rice makes a bright base for the juicy chicken bites.
• Herbed Quinoa: Serve the chicken over herbed quinoa for a nutritious twist that adds texture.

How to Perfect Mediterranean Chicken Bites

Achieving perfect Mediterranean Chicken Bites is easy with these tips. Follow these simple steps to elevate your dish.

• Marinate Longer: Allow the chicken to marinate for more than an hour for deeper flavor absorption.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh oregano enhances the dish’s aroma and taste compared to dried herbs.
• Grill at High Heat: Preheat your grill properly to achieve those perfect char marks and keep the chicken juicy.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Avoid overcooking by checking the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
• Add Extra Flavor: Consider adding minced garlic or lemon zest to the marinade for an extra burst of Mediterranean flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Mediterranean Chicken Bites

Pairing side dishes with your Mediterranean Chicken Bites can create a complete meal. Here are some tasty options that complement the flavors perfectly.

1. Tzatziki Sauce: A creamy yogurt sauce made with cucumbers and garlic adds freshness and coolness.
2. Pita Bread: Warm pita bread is great for scooping up chicken bites and dips.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant add color and nutrition.
4. Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and olives provides a hearty side that pairs well with chicken.
5. Hummus Platter: A variety of hummus served with pita chips or raw veggies is perfect for dipping.
6. Tabbouleh Salad: This refreshing parsley salad adds brightness with its lemony dressing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mediterranean Chicken Bites, it’s easy to overlook a few details that can affect the taste and texture. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the marination time: Marinating the chicken is essential for flavor. Make sure to let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least one hour to absorb all those delicious Mediterranean flavors.

• Not preheating the grill: A cold grill can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your outdoor grill before adding the chicken bites to ensure they cook evenly and develop nice char marks.

• Using too much oil: While a little olive oil is necessary, too much can make the chicken greasy. Stick to the recommended amounts in the recipe for optimal results.

• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Grill until just cooked through, monitoring closely to achieve juicy Mediterranean Chicken Bites.

• Neglecting seasoning balance: It’s easy to under-season or over-season. Follow the recipe carefully and taste as you go, adjusting salt and spices according to your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for best quality.

Freezing Mediterranean Chicken Bites

• Place cooled chicken bites in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months; be sure to label with dates.

Reheating Mediterranean Chicken Bites

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place chicken bites on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm, being careful not to overcook.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of olive oil if desired. Cook chicken bites for 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Mediterranean Chicken Bites:

What can I serve with Mediterranean Chicken Bites?

You can pair these delicious bites with salads, pita bread, or rice for a complete meal. They also make great appetizers!

Can I use different herbs in the marinade?

Yes! While oregano adds great flavor, feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or basil according to your preference.

How do I ensure my Mediterranean Chicken Bites are tender?

Make sure not to over-marinate or overcook the chicken, as both can affect tenderness. The key is balancing marination time and cooking temperature.

Are Mediterranean Chicken Bites healthy?

Absolutely! They are packed with protein and healthy fats from olive oil, making them a nutritious choice for any meal.

Final Thoughts

Mediterranean Chicken Bites are not only flavorful but also versatile enough for various occasions. Whether served as an appetizer or main dish, this recipe allows room for customization by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Try it today and enjoy a healthy taste of the Mediterranean!