Charcoal-Grilled Chicken With Garlic
Juicy charcoal-grilled chicken infused with garlic and herbs, complemented by a rich garlic puree, perfect for gatherings and lovers of bold, smoky flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the chicken into serving pieces.
- Peel 10 cloves of garlic and chop them roughly.
- Marinate the chicken in half a bottle of red wine with chopped garlic and 3 sprigs of fresh thyme for 2 to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
- Spread the remaining garlic cloves, with skins on, in a small baking dish in one layer and cover with 1 cup of olive oil.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Bake in a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven for 1 1/2 hours or until the garlic is completely soft.
- Puree the roasted garlic through a food mill when done.
- Discard the skins and reserve the garlic puree.
- Grill the marinated chicken over charcoal until cooked through and nicely charred.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar to the marinade. If you don't have fresh thyme, dried thyme can be used as a substitute, but reduce the amount to about a teaspoon. Ensure your grill is preheated to high before cooking the chicken to achieve a nice char. You can also experiment with other herbs like rosemary or oregano for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the charcoal-grilled chicken with the roasted garlic puree spread on top for an extra burst of flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with Oven Roasted Potatoes - Greek Style and a fresh salad. For a complete meal, consider including sides like Chopped Broccoli A La Grecque or a refreshing Chilled Tomato Soup With Basil Sorbet to balance the richness of the chicken.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. For optimal flavor, you can also reheat it on a grill or stovetop to revive the charred texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Charcoal-Grilled Chicken With Garlic contains roughly 339 calories, with 8g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (112% of the Daily Value), iron (61% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. It also contributes 9g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken pieces, but adjust the grilling time as they will cook faster. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking, which can dry out the meat. Marinating for the same duration will still enhance the flavor.
What type of red wine is best for marinating?
A medium-bodied red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon works well for marinating chicken. These wines add depth to the flavor without overpowering the dish. Avoid overly sweet wines, as they can alter the taste of the marinade.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just ensure to grill it fresh before serving. The roasted garlic can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge; just reheat it slightly before serving to enhance its flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).