We’ve all experienced that moment when we bite into perfectly seasoned Mediterranean chicken that makes us close our eyes and savor every single bite. Luna Grill’s famous chicken has captured hearts across California with its incredible blend of herbs and spices that transform ordinary chicken into something truly extraordinary.
What makes Luna Grill chicken so addictive? It’s their secret marinade that combines traditional Mediterranean flavors with modern grilling techniques. The result is juicy tender chicken with a beautiful char and an aroma that’ll have your neighbors asking what you’re cooking.
Ingredients
We’ve broken down our Luna Grill chicken recipe into three essential components to help you recreate this Mediterranean masterpiece. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the complex flavors that make this dish irresistible.
For the Chicken Marinade
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
For the Greek Seasoning Blend
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary crushed
- Pinch of ground cinnamon
For Serving
- Warm pita bread
- Tzatziki sauce
- Fresh cucumber slices
- Cherry tomatoes halved
- Red onion thinly sliced
- Fresh parsley chopped
- Lemon wedges
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Mixed greens
Equipment Needed
Creating authentic Luna Grill chicken at home requires the right tools to achieve that signature Mediterranean flavor and perfect texture. We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of essential equipment based on different cooking methods to help you recreate this restaurant-quality dish.
Grill (Gas or Charcoal)
An outdoor grill serves as our top recommendation for achieving the most authentic Luna Grill chicken experience. Gas grills offer convenient temperature control and quick startup, while charcoal grills provide that distinctive smoky flavor that enhances the Mediterranean seasoning. Both options deliver the high heat necessary for proper searing and those coveted grill marks that make the chicken visually appealing.
Mixing Bowls
Large mixing bowls become essential for preparing our marinade and coating the chicken pieces thoroughly. We recommend using glass or stainless steel bowls that won’t absorb flavors from the olive oil and spices. Multiple sizes allow us to separate different components of the recipe efficiently.
Skewers
Metal or bamboo skewers transform our marinated chicken into traditional kabobs that cook evenly and present beautifully. Metal skewers conduct heat and cook chicken from the inside out, while bamboo skewers require soaking in water for 30 minutes before use to prevent burning. Both options work effectively for creating those restaurant-style chicken pieces.
Meat Thermometer
Food safety remains our priority, making a reliable meat thermometer indispensable for ensuring chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F. Digital instant-read thermometers provide quick and accurate readings without overcooking the meat.
Tongs
Heavy-duty tongs give us the control needed to flip chicken pieces without piercing the meat and losing those flavorful juices. Long-handled tongs keep our hands safely away from the heat while providing precise maneuvering capabilities.
Alternative Cooking Options
For indoor cooking, we recommend either a grill pan or air fryer as excellent alternatives. Grill pans create attractive sear marks and work well on stovetops, while air fryers cook chicken at 360°F for approximately 30 minutes, delivering crispy exteriors without outdoor grilling requirements.
| Equipment Type | Primary Function | Temperature/Setting |
|---|---|---|
| Gas/Charcoal Grill | Authentic grilling with smoky flavor | Medium direct heat |
| Air Fryer | Indoor alternative cooking | 360°F for 30 minutes |
| Meat Thermometer | Food safety verification | 165°F internal temperature |
| Grill Pan | Stovetop grilling option | Medium-high heat |
Instructions
We’ll walk you through creating this Mediterranean masterpiece step by step. Our method ensures you achieve that signature Luna Grill flavor and texture every time.
Prep the Marinade
Start by combining olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and dried oregano in a small bowl. Add chopped fresh parsley and a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat. Season with salt to taste.
Whisk all ingredients together until the mixture becomes emulsified and well combined. The marinade should have a bright, aromatic quality that captures those authentic Mediterranean flavors.
Marinate the Chicken
Cut your chicken into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and maximum flavor absorption. Place the chicken pieces in the prepared marinade, ensuring each piece gets thoroughly coated.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For best results, we recommend marinating overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat.
Prepare the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium direct heat before cooking begins. Charcoal or gas grills work best for achieving that authentic smoky flavor Luna Grill is known for.
If using an indoor alternative, heat your grill pan over medium heat. For those using an air fryer, preheat to 400°F. Soak wooden or bamboo skewers in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
Grill the Chicken
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto your prepared skewers if desired. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 12-15 minutes total, flipping halfway through the cooking process.
Monitor the internal temperature using a meat thermometer. The chicken reaches safe consumption when it hits 165°F internally. This ensures both food safety and optimal juiciness.
Rest and Serve
Remove the grilled chicken from heat and let it rest for 3-5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat for maximum tenderness.
Serve the chicken warm alongside your chosen Mediterranean accompaniments. Popular pairings include hummus, fresh salad, or warm flatbread to complete the authentic Luna Grill experience.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Luna Grill Style Chicken
We’ve discovered that achieving restaurant-quality Luna Grill chicken at home requires attention to exact grilling techniques and timing. Our experience shows that these professional tips make the difference between good and exceptional Mediterranean chicken.
Master the Heat Zone
We recommend preheating your grill to medium direct heat around 500°F for optimal searing. This temperature creates the perfect balance between developing a beautiful char and maintaining juicy interiors. Gas grills work excellently for consistent heat control while charcoal grills impart that authentic smoky flavor we associate with Mediterranean cooking.
Perfect Your Timing
We place chicken pieces on the grill and cook for approximately 12 minutes total. Turning the chicken halfway through ensures even cooking on both sides. Our internal temperature target remains 165°F for food safety while preserving maximum juiciness.
Enhance Flavor Distribution
We thread bite-sized chicken pieces onto skewers for even cooking and better flavor distribution. Soaking wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes before use prevents burning during the grilling process. Metal skewers work equally well and eliminate the soaking step entirely.
Optimize Marinade Benefits
We marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes but prefer overnight marination for deeper flavor penetration. The yogurt-based marinade option provides additional tenderness through natural enzymes while maintaining the Mediterranean flavor profile we’re seeking.
Add Complementary Vegetables
We grill vegetables like onions and asparagus alongside the chicken to create a complete Mediterranean meal. These vegetables cook at similar temperatures and complement the herb and garlic flavors beautifully.
Adjust Heat Levels
We customize the cayenne pepper amount based on personal heat preferences. Starting with less and adding more allows us to build the perfect spice level for our taste preferences.
Use Quality Ingredients
We emphasize using fresh herbs and high-quality olive oil for authentic Mediterranean taste. These premium ingredients significantly impact the final flavor profile and overall dish quality.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Planning ahead transforms this Luna Grill chicken recipe into a seamless weeknight dinner solution. We recommend preparing the marinade and chicken combination up to 24 hours in advance for maximum flavor development.
Marinade Preparation Timeline
| Preparation Stage | Recommended Time | Flavor Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum marinating | 30 minutes | Basic flavor penetration |
| Optimal marinating | 4-8 hours | Enhanced tenderness |
| Maximum marinating | 24 hours | Maximum flavor infusion |
Start by combining olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, parsley, and salt in a large mixing bowl the night before cooking. The marinade’s acidity from lemon juice begins breaking down protein fibers immediately, creating that signature tender texture Luna Grill achieves.
Chicken Preparation Steps
Place chicken pieces into the prepared marinade and ensure complete coverage by massaging the mixture into every surface. Transfer the marinated chicken to an airtight container or sealed plastic bag for refrigerator storage. This advance preparation allows Mediterranean herbs to penetrate deeply into the meat while we handle other meal planning tasks.
Skewer Assembly Strategy
Wooden skewers require soaking for at least 20 minutes before threading to prevent charring during grilling. We suggest soaking them the morning of cooking day or keeping pre-soaked skewers ready in the refrigerator. Thread marinated chicken onto prepared skewers up to 4 hours before grilling time.
Storage and Safety Guidelines
Marinated chicken maintains peak quality for up to 48 hours when properly refrigerated at 40°F or below. Remove the container from refrigeration 15-20 minutes before grilling to bring the chicken closer to room temperature for even cooking. This brief tempering period ensures consistent internal temperature throughout each piece during the 12-minute grilling process.
Serving Suggestions
We believe the perfect Luna Grill chicken experience extends beyond the expertly grilled protein to include authentic Mediterranean accompaniments. Our carefully selected serving suggestions will transform your meal into a complete Greek feast.
Traditional Greek Sides
We recommend starting with tzatziki sauce as your essential condiment. This creamy blend of yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill provides the perfect cooling contrast to the smoky grilled chicken. Hummus makes another excellent choice, offering a rich chickpea base enhanced with tahini, lemon, and garlic that pairs beautifully with warm pita bread.
Our suggested vegetable sides include roasted zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers that complement the Mediterranean flavor profile. We love serving dolmas (stuffed grape leaves) alongside the chicken for an authentic Greek touch. Greek olives and crumbled feta cheese round out the traditional sides, adding briny saltiness and creamy texture to each bite.
Rice and Grain Options
We find that lemon herb rice creates the ideal foundation for Luna Grill chicken. Basmati or jasmine rice cooked with fresh lemon zest and parsley absorbs the chicken’s flavorful juices perfectly. Greek style orzo pasta tossed with lemon and herbs offers another excellent carb option that stays true to Mediterranean traditions.
Our quinoa preparation includes cucumbers, tomatoes, and fresh herbs for a lighter grain choice. Bulgur wheat pilaf enhanced with pine nuts and dried fruit provides a nutty texture that complements the grilled chicken’s smoky char. Each grain option absorbs the chicken’s marinade flavors while adding substantial nutrition to your meal.
Fresh Salad Pairings
We always include a classic Greek salad featuring tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese dressed simply with olive oil and oregano. This traditional combination enhances the chicken’s Mediterranean flavors without overwhelming the palate.
Our Mediterranean chopped salad incorporates fresh herbs, bell peppers, and red onion with a bright lemon vinaigrette. Arugula or mixed greens dressed with lemon olive oil dressing and shaved Parmesan create a peppery contrast to the seasoned chicken. We also love preparing a simple tomato cucumber salad with fresh mint and red wine vinegar that provides refreshing acidity to balance the rich grilled flavors.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve mastered the art of grilling this Mediterranean chicken masterpiece, proper storage becomes essential for maintaining its exceptional flavor and tender texture. We recommend allowing the grilled chicken to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or resealable bags. This cooling process prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container, which could compromise the chicken’s quality.
Refrigerator Storage Guidelines
Fresh grilled Luna Grill-style chicken maintains peak quality when stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. We suggest placing the cooled chicken pieces in airtight containers to preserve their Mediterranean flavors and prevent them from absorbing other refrigerator odors. Label containers with the preparation date to track freshness and ensure food safety.
Freezer Storage Options
For extended storage, we freeze the grilled chicken in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2-3 months. Remove as much air as possible from freezer bags to prevent freezer burn and maintain the chicken’s original texture. Portion the chicken into meal-sized servings before freezing to make reheating more convenient.
| Storage Method | Duration | Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days | Below 40°F |
| Freezer | 2-3 months | 0°F or below |
Reheating Techniques
We reheat refrigerated chicken using gentle methods that preserve moisture and prevent overcooking. A skillet over medium heat works effectively for small portions, while a preheated oven at 350°F provides even heating for larger quantities. Cover the chicken loosely with foil during reheating to retain its natural juices and Mediterranean marinade flavors.
Frozen chicken requires overnight thawing in the refrigerator before reheating. We never recommend reheating directly from frozen, as this can result in uneven heating and compromised texture. Monitor the internal temperature during reheating to ensure it reaches 165°F for food safety while avoiding overheating that could dry out the meat.
These storage and reheating methods ensure your homemade Luna Grill chicken maintains its restaurant-quality taste and texture, allowing you to enjoy this Mediterranean delight throughout the week.
Recipe Variations
We love how adaptable this Luna Grill chicken recipe can be for different cooking methods and protein preferences. Each variation maintains the authentic Mediterranean flavors while accommodating various kitchen setups and dietary needs.
Oven-Baked Version
Preheat your oven to 375°F for perfectly baked Luna Grill chicken. We start by searing the marinated chicken pieces in a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil to develop those essential caramelized flavors and golden color that make this dish so appealing.
Transfer the seared chicken to a baking pan and bake for 15-20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This method delivers the same juicy results as grilling while offering the convenience of indoor cooking. We find this technique particularly helpful during colder months when outdoor grilling isn’t practical.
The oven-baked version retains all the Mediterranean herbs and spices from our signature marinade while creating tender chicken with a beautifully developed crust.
Air Fryer Method
Place your marinated chicken pieces in the air fryer basket at 375°F for a modern twist on this classic recipe. Cook for 12-15 minutes while flipping the pieces halfway through to ensure even browning and cooking.
This method creates an exceptionally crispy exterior texture with significantly less oil than traditional frying methods. We appreciate how the air fryer delivers faster results than both oven baking and grilling while maintaining the chicken’s moisture and flavor.
The circulating hot air in the air fryer perfectly complements our Mediterranean marinade, creating a golden finish that rivals outdoor grilling results.
Different Protein Options
Boneless skinless chicken thighs work beautifully as an alternative to breast meat in this recipe. Thighs require slightly longer cooking times but offer increased moisture and richer flavor that pairs exceptionally well with our olive oil and herb marinade.
Bone-in chicken thighs also adapt perfectly to this marinade while needing extended cooking time to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F. We recommend this option for those who prefer deeper chicken flavor and don’t mind the additional cooking time.
Our versatile marinade blend of olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, parsley, and cayenne pepper adapts wonderfully to seafood proteins like shrimp for a Mediterranean twist. Beef can also be substituted for those seeking a heartier protein option while maintaining the same aromatic herb profile.
For skewered preparations across all protein options, we always soak wooden skewers in water for 20 minutes before use to prevent burning during the cooking process.
Conclusion
We’ve unlocked the secrets behind Luna Grill’s irresistible Mediterranean chicken that’s captured hearts across California. This comprehensive guide empowers you to recreate that signature flavor profile in your own kitchen using accessible ingredients and straightforward techniques.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility – whether you’re firing up the outdoor grill seeking that authentic char or adapting it for indoor cooking with an oven or air fryer. The marinades and seasonings we’ve shared deliver consistently delicious results every time.
With proper preparation and our make-ahead tips you’ll streamline your cooking process while maximizing flavor development. The serving suggestions and storage techniques ensure you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality Mediterranean chicken that rivals the original Luna Grill experience right at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Luna Grill chicken so flavorful?
Luna Grill chicken gets its exceptional flavor from a secret marinade that combines traditional Mediterranean ingredients like olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs with contemporary grilling techniques. This unique blend creates juicy, tender chicken with a beautifully charred exterior and aromatic taste that has made it a California favorite.
How long should I marinate the chicken for best results?
For maximum flavor development, marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours in advance. This extended marinating time allows the Mediterranean herbs and spices to fully penetrate the meat, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken that closely replicates the Luna Grill experience.
What equipment do I need to make Luna Grill chicken at home?
Essential equipment includes an outdoor grill (gas or charcoal), large mixing bowls for marinade preparation, skewers for kabobs, a meat thermometer for food safety, and heavy-duty tongs. For indoor cooking, alternatives like a grill pan or air fryer work well with specific temperature adjustments.
What temperature should I grill the chicken?
Preheat your grill to medium heat around 500°F for optimal searing. Cook the chicken for approximately 12 minutes, turning halfway through. This temperature ensures proper cooking while achieving the signature charred exterior that Luna Grill chicken is known for.
What are the best side dishes to serve with Luna Grill chicken?
Traditional Mediterranean sides work perfectly, including tzatziki sauce, hummus, warm pita bread, Greek olives, and crumbled feta cheese. For grains, try lemon herb rice, orzo pasta, or quinoa. Fresh Greek salad, roasted vegetables, and Mediterranean chopped salad provide excellent complementary flavors.
Can I make Luna Grill chicken without a grill?
Yes! You can use an oven-baked method by searing marinated chicken then baking at 375°F for 15-20 minutes. An air fryer also works well at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, creating a crispy exterior with less oil while maintaining authentic Mediterranean flavors.
How should I store leftover Luna Grill chicken?
Cool the grilled chicken completely before storing in airtight containers. It keeps in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or in the freezer for 2-3 months. When reheating, use gentle methods to preserve moisture and ensure food safety while maintaining the chicken’s flavor and texture.
Can I use different proteins with this marinade?
Absolutely! The Mediterranean marinade works excellently with boneless skinless chicken thighs, bone-in thighs, and seafood like shrimp. Each protein absorbs the flavors differently, so adjust cooking times accordingly while maintaining the same delicious Mediterranean taste profile that makes Luna Grill special.
