This Easy Greek Marinated Chicken is a tasty dish bursting with flavors! With juicy chicken soaked in olive oil, lemon, garlic, and herbs, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Marinating the chicken not only makes it super tasty but also keeps it tender. Serve it with fresh veggies or on a pita for a delicious meal that’s a breeze to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe because they cook evenly and stay juicy. If you prefer, you could use thighs for more flavor or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds rich flavor and moisture. You can swap it out with any cooking oil you have, like avocado or canola oil, but olive oil is a classic for Greek dishes.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors. If you’re out of lemons, bottled lemon juice works, but fresh is always best for that zing! You could also use lime juice for a different twist.
Herbs: Dried oregano and thyme really shine in this recipe. If you have fresh herbs available, they can enhance the flavor even more. Just remember to use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
The key to juicy chicken is marinating it properly. Let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes, but for maximum flavor, aim for 2 hours. This allows time for the herbs and lemon to penetrate the meat.
- Whisk the marinade ingredients well to combine flavors before adding the chicken.
- Use a resealable bag to coat the chicken evenly, making sure every piece is covered.
- When grilling, preheat your grill properly. A hot grill will sear the chicken, helping to lock in juices.
Easy Greek Marinated Chicken
Ingredients:
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Greek Marinated Chicken will take about 10 minutes to prepare and at least 30 minutes of marinating time (up to 2 hours for more flavor). Plus, you’ll need about 15 minutes to grill it. In total, you can expect to spend about 55 minutes to enjoy this delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Create the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This zesty mixture will soak into the chicken and make it delicious!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Next, place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag tightly or cover the dish, then pop it in the refrigerator. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, try to let it sit for up to 2 hours for better flavor.
3. Prepare the Grill:
While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the chicken from sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
After marinating, take the chicken out of the fridge. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Grill the chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You can tell the chicken is done when it’s beautifully golden brown with nice grill marks!
5. Serve:
Once cooked, transfer the grilled chicken to a serving platter. Garnish it with chopped fresh parsley and lemon wedges for an extra pop of flavor. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken right before eating—yummy!
This recipe yields tender, flavorful chicken perfect for serving alongside Greek salads, rice, or pita bread. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight is a great option! It enhances the flavor even more. Just be sure to keep it in the fridge and not exceed 24 hours to prevent the chicken from becoming too mushy.
What Can I Use Instead of Fresh Lemon Juice?
If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice is a good substitute, but fresh juice gives the best flavor. You could also use lime juice for a different citrus twist!
How Should I 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; you can add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Can I Use This Marinade for Other Proteins?
Absolutely! This marinade works well with shrimp, pork, or tofu. Just adjust the cooking times according to the protein you’re using—shrimp cooks quickly, while pork may take longer to cook thoroughly.
