Description
This Greek Marinated Chicken recipe features juicy chicken breasts marinated in a flavorful blend of Greek yogurt, lemon, garlic, and traditional herbs. The chicken is seared on a grill pan for a perfect crust before finishing in the oven for a tender and succulent result. Ideal for a healthy and vibrant Mediterranean-inspired meal, this dish is easy to prepare and serves 8.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 3 lemons
- 5 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
- 2 tablespoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Main:
- 2 lbs chicken breast
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, Greek yogurt, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, dried oregano, coriander, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours to maximize flavor and tenderness.
- Bring Chicken to Room Temperature: About 30 minutes before cooking, remove the chicken from the refrigerator to allow it to come to room temperature, which helps in cooking evenly.
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly oil a grill pan and heat it over medium-high heat on the stovetop to get it hot and ready for searing.
- Sear the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken breasts in the hot grill pan and sear on one side for 5 minutes, developing a golden crust.
- Finish Cooking in the Oven: Flip the chicken breasts and transfer the grill pan directly to the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.
Notes
- Marinating for longer than 30 minutes (up to 24 hours) will deepen the flavors and tenderize the chicken further.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F to avoid overcooking.
- For extra smoky flavor, you can cook the chicken on an outdoor grill instead of using a grill pan and oven.
- Leftover chicken can be sliced and added to salads, wraps, or grain bowls.
- Greek yogurt not only adds flavor but also helps keep the chicken moist during cooking.
