This easy Greek marinated chicken is juicy and packed with flavor! It features simple ingredients like olive oil, lemon, garlic, and herbs that come together for a delicious meal.
I love how this chicken can be grilled or baked, making it so versatile. Pair it with a fresh salad or pita bread, and you’ve got a tasty dish that feels like a trip to Greece! 🥗🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for even cooking. If you’re looking for an alternative, you could use thighs for a juicier option, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
Olive Oil: This ingredient adds richness and helps the marinade stick to the chicken. If you’re out, avocado oil is a good substitute. Just keep in mind it may alter the flavor a bit!
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish. If fresh isn’t available, bottled juice works in a pinch, but fresh is always better for taste!
Herbs: Dried oregano gives that classic Greek taste. If you’re out of oregano, Italian seasoning works too, or use fresh herbs for even better flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Full of Flavor?
The key to juicy chicken lies in marinating and cooking properly. Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but 2-4 hours is best for deeper flavor. This helps tenderize the meat and infuse it with delicious flavors.
- When grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This sears the chicken for a nice char.
- Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe eating.
- Let the chicken rest after grilling. This step is crucial! It allows the juices to redistribute, making it more tender when you cut into it.
Serve it with fresh parsley and lemon to really brighten the flavors. Enjoy your meal! 🍽️
Easy Greek Marinated Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and should marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2-4 hours for enhanced flavor. Cooking on the grill will take another 15 minutes. In total, you’re looking at about 25-30 minutes of active cooking time, plus marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme (or rosemary), salt, and black pepper until well combined. This zesty mix will give your chicken a delicious Mediterranean flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, making sure all the pieces are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, let it marinate for 2-4 hours for even more flavor.
3. Prepare for Grilling:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates or pan to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any leftover marinade. Grill the chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and have lovely grill marks.
5. Let It Rest:
Transfer the grilled chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices settle, making your chicken juicy and tender.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your chicken with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for extra zest. Pair it with your favorite Greek sides like a fresh salad, tzatziki, or pita bread for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious Easy Greek Marinated Chicken!
FAQ for Easy Greek Marinated Chicken
Can I Use Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work great in this recipe and will be even juicier due to their higher fat content. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few minutes longer to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you’d like to add some heat, consider mixing in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a bit of hot sauce into the marinade. You can also serve the chicken with a spicy dipping sauce to kick up the flavor!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator in the marinade. If you want to cook it later, simply take it out, grill, and enjoy whenever you’re ready!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop. Just be careful not to overcook it, which can dry out the chicken!
