This Easy Greek Marinated Chicken is bursting with flavor! Marinated in olive oil, lemon, garlic, and herbs, it’s simple and delightful. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a sunny barbecue!
I love grilling this chicken and serving it with a fresh salad. You can even toss some pita chips on the side. Who doesn’t love a little crunch with their meal? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for marinating. If you want something different, try thighs for more flavor or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds richness to the marinade. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could use avocado oil instead.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the flavors. You can substitute with lime juice if you don’t have lemons, but it will change the flavor slightly.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a robust flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work too, but I’d recommend using fresh when possible.
Herbs: Dried oregano is classic in Greek cooking. If you have fresh herbs, use them for a fresher taste. You can also try Italian seasoning as a substitute!
How Do You Get the Most Flavor from Your Marinade?
To really enjoy the flavors, it’s key to marinate the chicken long enough. A good rule of thumb is at least 30 minutes, but let it sit for 1 to 2 hours, or even overnight for a deeper taste.
- Ensure every piece of chicken is well-coated with the marinade.
- Store it in the fridge while marinating to keep it fresh.
Don’t forget to let excess marinade drip off before grilling to avoid flare-ups on the grill. Happy cooking!
Easy Greek Marinated Chicken
Ingredients you’ll need:
- 3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How much time will you need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then needs at least 30 minutes to marinate. If you can let it sit in the fridge for 1 to 2 hours—or even overnight, that’s best! Once you’re ready, cooking on the grill will take another 12 to 16 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of olive oil, the juice and zest of one lemon, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all those lovely flavors!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts into a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated nicely. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then pop it in the fridge to marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, letting it sit for 1 to 2 hours really enhances the flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Give the grill grates a light oiling to prevent sticking—nobody likes it when the chicken gets stuck!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Grill the chicken for about 6 to 8 minutes on each side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and has beautiful grill marks.
5. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a plate and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy! Garnish it with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for that extra zing.
This juicy, herb-infused chicken pairs wonderfully with a Greek salad, rice pilaf, or roasted vegetables. Enjoy your delicious meal!
FAQ for Easy Greek Marinated Chicken
Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great, you can swap them for chicken thighs or drumsticks for more flavor and moisture. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as dark meat typically takes a bit longer to cook.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Lemon?
No worries! If you’re out of fresh lemons, you can use bottled lemon juice as an alternative. As a general rule, 1 tablespoon of bottled lemon juice is roughly equivalent to the juice from half of a fresh lemon.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes! Marinating the chicken overnight is even better! It allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in a more flavorful dish. Just be sure to keep it covered in the fridge to stay fresh.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat the chicken gently in the microwave, or enjoy it cold in salads or wraps for a refreshing meal!
