This Easy Greek Marinated Chicken is full of zesty flavors from garlic, lemon, and herbs. It’s a simple way to have juicy, tender chicken that’s great for any meal!
Honestly, marinating it overnight makes all the difference. I like to grill it for that smoky taste—perfect for summer BBQs or a quick weeknight dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: For this dish, boneless and skinless chicken breasts work best as they cook evenly. You can also use thighs for a juicier option or even tofu for a vegetarian version! Just adjust marinating time for tofu.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is ideal for flavor. If you don’t have it, any neutral oil like canola or avocado oil will do. However, it might lack some of the rich taste.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is perfect for brightness. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can work, but be sure to use less as it’s stronger. About 1 ½ tablespoons would be good!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a nice punch. If garlic isn’t your favorite, you can use garlic powder instead, about 1 teaspoon for the same flavor profile.
Oregano: Traditional in Greek cuisine, dried oregano gave the chicken that authentic flavor. If you don’t have it, Italian seasoning can substitute, but it’s a bit more complex.
How Do You Ensure Juicy Chicken?
To keep the chicken moist and flavorful, marinating is key. Here’s how to get it right:
- Marinate for at least 1 hour, but 4-8 hours or even overnight is ideal!
- Always let excess marinade drip off before grilling to prevent flare-ups. It also helps the chicken get those nice grill marks.
- Cook on medium-high heat, and use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C). This prevents overcooking.
- Resting the chicken after grilling allows the juices to redistribute, so don’t skip this step.
Easy Greek Marinated Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and then you’ll want to marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but overnight is even better! Cooking on the grill will take around 12-14 minutes, so in total, you’ll spend about 1 hour and 30 minutes, including marinating and cooking time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme (if using), paprika, salt, and black pepper. This zesty mix will give your chicken lots of flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s nicely coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the fridge for at least 1 hour—4 hours or overnight is even better for maximum flavor!
3. Prepare for Grilling:
Once the chicken has marinated, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remember to lightly oil the grill grates to help prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Discard the remaining marinade (we don’t want to use that again!). Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You’ll know it’s done when it has those lovely grill marks!
5. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy! Slice it up, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges on the side for that extra zesty kick.
Enjoy your flavorful Greek marinated chicken with a fresh salad, fluffy rice, or some roasted vegetables. Bon appétit!
FAQ About Easy Greek Marinated Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and will result in a juicier dish. Just keep the marinating time the same and ensure they are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for as short as 1 hour, but for the best flavor, aim for 4-8 hours or overnight. Just make sure not to exceed 24 hours, as the acid from the lemon juice may make the chicken too soft.
What is the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Can I Grill This Chicken Indoors?
Yes! You can use a grill pan or even a broiler if you’re cooking indoors. Just ensure to keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn, as the cooking times may vary slightly compared to an outdoor grill.
