This Easy Greek Marinated Chicken is juicy and full of flavor! With ingredients like lemon, garlic, and herbs, it’s like a mini vacation on your plate.
I love making this chicken for quick weeknight dinners. Just marinate it, grill or bake, and enjoy! Perfect with a side of veggies or in a wrap. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. If you want, you can use chicken thighs for a richer flavor. They stay juicier and are harder to overcook.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is best for flavor, but regular olive oil works too. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, try using Greek yogurt as a marinating base instead.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is preferred for its vibrant taste, but bottled lemon juice is a good substitute if you’re in a pinch. You might also try lime juice for a different zing!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you have garlic powder, you could use about 1/2 teaspoon instead, but it won’t have the same punch.
Dried Herbs: Oregano is essential here. If you’re out, Italian seasoning can be a quick substitute. For a burst of freshness, add some chopped fresh herbs like dill or mint after cooking.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Grill Marks?
Getting those beautiful grill marks is all about searing the chicken correctly. First, make sure your grill is hot before adding the chicken. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat your grill for at least 10 minutes on medium-high heat.
- When placing the chicken, avoid moving it around too soon. Let it cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes on one side.
- Flip the chicken gently, and again, avoid moving it until it’s time to remove it.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F/75°C). This ensures perfectly cooked, juicy chicken without drying it out.
After grilling, let your chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping it moist and flavorful!
Easy Greek Marinated Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 1 large lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional for depth)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and at least 30 minutes to marinate (or up to 4 hours for the best flavor). Plus, you’ll need around 15 minutes for the actual cooking on the grill. So, in total, you’ll need about 45 minutes, but don’t forget the marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme or rosemary (if you’re using it), cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate. Aim for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors soak in, but 2-4 hours is even better!
3. Get Ready to Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Apply a light coat of oil to the grill grates or the pan to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want it to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and develop nice grill marks.
5. Let It Rest:
Once the chicken is cooked, take it off the grill and let it rest for 3-5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy!
6. Serve It Up:
Garnish the chicken with chopped fresh parsley, and serve it with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or some warm pita bread.
Enjoy your delicious and flavorful Easy Greek Marinated Chicken! 🍗🌿🍋
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative. They’re juicier and have a richer flavor, making them perfect for this marinade. Just adjust the cooking time a bit, as thighs may take a minute longer to cook through compared to breasts.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for a minimum of 30 minutes to get good flavor, but for best results, aim for 2-4 hours. If you’re short on time, even a 15- minute soak in the marinade will impart some delicious flavors!
Can I Grill This Chicken Indoors?
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftover Greek marinated chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave or warm it gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent it from drying out.
