Mediterranean Chicken Bites

Mediterranean Chicken Bites are a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean right to your plate. These juicy, tender chicken bites are marinated in a delicious blend of herbs and ranch dressing, making them perfect for any occasion—be it a weeknight dinner, a backyard barbecue, or an appetizer for gatherings. Their standout qualities include incredible flavor, quick preparation, and versatility that will please any crowd.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of Hidden Valley® Simply Ranch and fresh herbs infuses the chicken with rich Mediterranean flavors.
• Versatile Dish: Serve these chicken bites as an appetizer or main course, with options to customize your sides.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and low in carbs, these bites fit perfectly into a balanced diet.
• Great for Meal Prep: Marinate ahead of time for easy cooking during busy weeknights.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have the right tools handy. Having the essential equipment will streamline your preparation and grilling experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs
• Marinade brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A good grill adds that smoky flavor and beautiful char marks to your chicken.
• Mixing bowl: This is crucial for evenly combining all marinade ingredients before adding the chicken.
• Tongs: Use tongs to easily turn the chicken pieces on the grill without losing juices.
• Marinade brush: This helps ensure even distribution of olive oil over chicken while grilling.

Ingredients

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

For the Chicken

• 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

Combine all marinade ingredients in a mixing bowl. Add:
1. Chicken cubes
2. Hidden Valley® Simply Ranch dressing
3. Fresh oregano
4. Lemon juice
5. Salt
6. Cayenne pepper
7. Olive oil

Mix well until the chicken is fully coated. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for 1 hour.

Step 2: Preheat Your Grill

While the chicken marinates, preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Once preheated:
1. Place marinated chicken pieces on the grill.
2. Grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until nice char marks form.
3. Brush with additional olive oil while grilling for added moisture.

If using cherry tomatoes:
4. Add them to the grill carefully during the last few minutes; they should be plump but not overcooked.

Step 4: Serve

Remove from grill and serve warm with extra Hidden Valley® Simply Ranch dressing for dipping. Garnish with lemon wedges and grilled cherry tomatoes if desired.

Enjoy your flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Bites!

How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Bites

Serving Mediterranean Chicken Bites can be both fun and creative. These delicious bites are versatile, making them perfect for various occasions. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

On a Skewers

• Thread Mediterranean Chicken Bites onto skewers for easy handling and a fun presentation.

With Fresh Salad

• Pair the chicken with a fresh Greek salad featuring cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese for a refreshing meal.

As an Appetizer

• Serve smaller portions as appetizers during parties or gatherings with a side of ranch dressing for dipping.

In Wraps

• Use warm pita or flatbreads to wrap the chicken bites along with some tzatziki sauce and fresh veggies.

With Couscous

• Serve alongside fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and lemon for a hearty and flavorful side.

Topped with Feta

• Crumble feta cheese over the chicken bites after grilling for an added tangy flavor.

How to Perfect Mediterranean Chicken Bites

To achieve the best version of Mediterranean Chicken Bites, consider these essential tips.

• Marinate Longer: Letting the chicken marinate overnight enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh oregano gives more vibrant flavors compared to dried herbs; always opt for fresh when possible.
• Control Heat: Grill on medium heat to ensure the chicken cooks evenly without burning.
• Check Doneness: Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow grilled chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving to retain juices.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels by adding more cayenne or experimenting with smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Mediterranean Chicken Bites

Pairing sides with your Mediterranean Chicken Bites can enhance the overall meal. Here are some great options that complement the flavors beautifully.

1. Quinoa Salad: A light salad made with quinoa, parsley, cherry tomatoes, and lemon juice adds freshness.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant grilled alongside the chicken provide color and nutrition.
3. Hummus Platter: Serve creamy hummus with pita chips and sliced veggies as a tasty dip.
4. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf cooked with broth and herbs offers a mild base that pairs well with spiced chicken.
5. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with rosemary make for a hearty side option.
6. Tabbouleh Salad: This bulgur wheat salad mixed with parsley, tomatoes, and lemon is refreshing against savory bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mediterranean Chicken Bites, avoiding common mistakes can ensure delicious results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the marinade time: Not allowing the chicken to marinate for at least an hour can lead to less flavorful bites. Marinating enhances the taste and tenderness, so don’t rush this step.
• Using low-quality chicken: Opting for cheap or frozen chicken can affect the texture and flavor. Always choose fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for the best results.
• Not preheating the grill: Failing to preheat your grill can cause uneven cooking and prevent those beautiful char marks. Make sure your grill is hot before adding the chicken.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can result in dry bites. Keep an eye on them while grilling and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
• Neglecting optional ingredients: Ignoring add-ons like cherry tomatoes or lemon wedges can reduce flavor complexity. Including these extras enhances both taste and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Mediterranean Chicken Bites in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Mediterranean Chicken Bites

• Place cooled chicken bites in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Mediterranean Chicken Bites

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking tray and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover it, and heat in short intervals (30 seconds), checking until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and warm the chicken bites for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought marinade for Mediterranean Chicken Bites?

Yes, you can use store-bought marinades, but making your own allows you to control flavors and ingredients better.

How do I make Mediterranean Chicken Bites healthier?

To make them healthier, consider using skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts or reducing the amount of olive oil used in marinating.

What should I serve with Mediterranean Chicken Bites?

These bites pair well with salads, grilled vegetables, or a side of couscous for a complete meal.

Can I customize the ingredients in Mediterranean Chicken Bites?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other herbs or spices like thyme or paprika according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Mediterranean Chicken Bites are not only juicy and flavorful but also versatile enough to adapt to various tastes. You can easily customize them with different marinades or sides based on what you have available. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for quick dinners or casual gatherings!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Mediterranean Chicken Bites

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 24 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x

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Description

Mediterranean Chicken Bites are a quick and flavorful dish that transports you straight to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean with every bite. These tender, marinated chicken pieces are seasoned with a delightful blend of Hidden Valley® Simply Ranch dressing and fresh herbs, making them perfect for weeknight dinners, festive gatherings, or casual barbecues. In just a few simple steps, you can whip up this versatile recipe that pleases all palates. Whether served as an appetizer with a side of ranch for dipping or as a main dish alongside fresh salads and grains, these chicken bites are sure to impress. Plus, they’re healthy, protein-packed, and low in carbs—making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy delicious food without compromising their dietary goals.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb skinless boneless chicken breasts (cubed)
• 1 tablespoon Hidden Valley® Simply Ranch: Cucumber Basil Ranch
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
• Salt and cayenne pepper to taste
• Olive oil for marinating and grilling

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken cubes with Hidden Valley® Simply Ranch dressing, fresh oregano, lemon juice, salt, cayenne pepper, and olive oil. Mix until well coated.
2. Cover the bowl and refrigerate to marinate for at least 1 hour.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until charred and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
5. Serve warm with extra ranch dressing for dipping.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 14 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 oz (85g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 0 g
• Sodium: 380 mg
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 2 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 27 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg