Greek Marinated Chicken Recipe
Imagine tender, juicy chicken infused with the sun-soaked flavors of lemon, garlic, and aromatic herbs—Greek Marinated Chicken brings the Mediterranean right to your table. This simple recipe transforms everyday chicken into something special, thanks to a creamy, zesty marinade and a touch of grilling magic. Whether you’re dreaming of a summer evening by the sea or just want to spice up a weeknight, you’ll adore how Greek Marinated Chicken effortlessly impresses everyone who tries it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Greek Marinated Chicken is how honest and straightforward the ingredients are. Each one brings a distinct personality, contributing to vibrant flavor and juicy texture that makes this dish unforgettable.
- Chicken (2 lbs, breasts or thighs): Choose boneless, skinless pieces for quick cooking and maximum juiciness. Thighs offer extra tenderness, while breasts are a leaner pick.
- Olive oil (1/4 cup): The heart of the marinade, creating a rich, silky texture and helping all the flavors blend perfectly.
- Fresh lemon juice (3 tbsp): Bright and tangy, it tenderizes the chicken and wakes up all those Mediterranean flavors.
- Plain Greek yogurt (3 tbsp): Adds creaminess and helps give the chicken that unbeatable juicy bite; perfect for a Mediterranean marinade base.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Four cloves might seem bold, but trust me—the punch of aromatic garlic is pure Greek magic.
- Dried oregano (2 tsp): The signature herb of Greek cooking, providing that unmistakable earthy aroma.
- Dried thyme (1 tsp): A gentle herbal note that plays beautifully with the oregano and lemon zest.
- Salt (1 tsp): Essential for bringing every flavor to the forefront—don’t skimp!
- Black pepper (1/2 tsp): For just the right touch of subtle heat in each bite.
- Lemon zest (zest of 1 lemon): The secret weapon for a truly fresh, fragrant chicken—don’t skip it.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tbsp, for garnish): Sprinkling parsley at the end brings color, freshness, and one final aromatic lift.
How to Make Greek Marinated Chicken
Step 1: Whisk Up the Marinade
Start by grabbing a medium mixing bowl and your whisk—this is where the magic begins! Combine the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, creamy Greek yogurt, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and that vibrant lemon zest. Whisk everything together until it’s thoroughly smooth and smells absolutely mouthwatering. The texture should look creamy and silky, with flecks of green and yellow throughout—a feast for your eyes even before cooking starts.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Place your chicken—whether you prefer breasts or thighs—into a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour that beautiful marinade over the meat, ensuring each piece gets a thorough coating. Give everything a little massage so the flavors really seep into every nook and cranny. If you’re using a bag, seal it tightly and turn it gently to coat, or just toss well if using a dish.
Step 3: Marinate for Maximum Flavor
This is where patience pays off. Let your Greek Marinated Chicken rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you can, aim for 2 to 4 hours—this extra time lets the flavors really shine and transforms the chicken into a luscious, flavorful main dish. Trust me, the wait is worth it!
Step 4: Grill or Sear to Perfection
Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat to get that irresistible golden sear. Take the chicken out of the marinade, letting any excess drip off, and lay each piece gently onto the hot grates or pan. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the outside is beautifully browned and the inside reaches 165°F (74°C). The aroma at this point is incredible!
Step 5: Rest, Slice, and Garnish
Patience again pays off at the finish line! Let the cooked chicken rest for 5 minutes—this helps keep every bite extra juicy. Slice it up, sprinkle with lots of fresh chopped parsley, and serve hot for a dazzling Mediterranean meal.
How to Serve Greek Marinated Chicken
Garnishes
A flurry of freshly chopped parsley does wonders for both visual appeal and flavor. For even more zip, try a final squeeze of lemon over the chicken right before serving—the splash of citrus really wakes things up! Consider a light shower of crumbled feta or thinly sliced red onion if you’re feeling extra festive.
Side Dishes
Greek Marinated Chicken pairs effortlessly with fluffy rice pilaf, roasted vegetables, or crisp Greek salads. For a handheld option, tuck slices into warm pita with shredded lettuce and a dollop of creamy tzatziki. If you’re after something heartier, lemon potatoes or a pile of grilled veggies make perfect companions.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not try serving your chicken family-style on a big platter surrounded by colorful sides? You can also cube the chicken for juicy skewers (souvlaki-style), shred and roll in flatbreads, or cube and toss in a giant salad bowl for the freshest lunch ever. The Mediterranean possibilities are honestly endless!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your Greek Marinated Chicken has cooled, keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken stays tender for up to 3 days and makes a fast, tasty addition to salads, wraps, and lunchboxes all week long.
Freezing
To freeze, stash the cooled chicken pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container—just be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. The chicken will keep its flavor for up to 2 months. If you want extra convenience, you can even freeze the chicken in the marinade before cooking.
Reheating
For best results, reheat Greek Marinated Chicken gently on the stove or in the oven, covered with foil, until warmed through. A splash of water or broth in the pan can help keep everything juicy. If you’re in a rush, a quick zap in the microwave also works—just don’t overdo it or you risk it turning dry.
FAQs
Can I make Greek Marinated Chicken dairy-free?
Absolutely! Just leave out the Greek yogurt and perhaps add a tablespoon of extra olive oil in its place. The marinade will still deliver fantastic flavor and juicy results without the dairy.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
For best taste and texture, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but 2 to 4 hours yields the most depth. If you’re prepping ahead, don’t exceed 24 hours—too long and the lemon can begin to change the texture.
Is it better to grill or bake Greek Marinated Chicken?
Both are delicious! Grilling gives a lovely smoky flavor and char, while baking produces extra juicy, evenly cooked chicken. You can even sear it in a pan if you’re short on time or don’t have a grill handy.
What kind of chicken is best for this recipe?
Boneless, skinless breasts or thighs both work beautifully for Greek Marinated Chicken. Thighs tend to stay a touch moister, but breasts are lean and absorb the marinade quickly. Pick what you love!
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
The recipe already uses dried oregano and thyme, which are more potent in marinades. If you want to use fresh herbs, you may need to increase the amount for a similar flavor punch, but the result will be wonderfully aromatic.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for an easy weeknight dinner or a showstopper for your next gathering, Greek Marinated Chicken is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. There’s just something magical about the bright Mediterranean flavors and juicy texture that keep you coming back for more—so gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a taste of Greece tonight!
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Greek Marinated Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 24 minutes (plus marinating)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Greek Marinated Chicken recipe is a flavorful and succulent dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend barbecue. The combination of tangy lemon, fragrant herbs, and creamy yogurt creates a delicious marinade that tenderizes the chicken beautifully. Whether grilled to perfection or cooked on the stovetop, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Zest of 1 lemon
Additional:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Greek yogurt, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, and lemon zest until smooth.
- Marinate Chicken: Place chicken in a large resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, ensuring the chicken is fully coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2 to 4 hours for best flavor.
- Cook Chicken: Preheat grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, shake off excess, and grill or cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Notes
- This chicken pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, or in pita wraps with tzatziki.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes as an alternative to grilling.
- For a dairy-free version, omit the Greek yogurt.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast or thigh portion
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 530mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
