This Easy Greek Marinated Chicken is full of flavor! With simple ingredients like olive oil, lemon, and herbs, it makes the chicken juicy and tasty. Perfect for quick dinners!
You can grill it, bake it, or even pan-fry it – the sky’s the limit! I love serving it with a side of veggies or a fresh salad. It feels like a mini vacation to Greece! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This gives the chicken a rich flavor and helps in marinating. If you’re out of olive oil, avocado oil or canola oil work well as substitutes. I always prefer using extra virgin for the best taste!
Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the marinade. If you don’t have lemons, bottled lemon juice can work, but the flavor won’t be as vibrant. Lime juice is a great alternative too!
Garlic: Minced garlic adds a wonderful aroma and depth to the chicken. You can substitute with garlic powder if needed, though the fresh garlic really makes a difference in flavor.
Herbs: Dried oregano is key in Greek cooking. If you’re out, Italian seasoning can be a good mix. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can also add a different touch – I love using fresh when I can!
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Grilled Chicken?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but here are some tips to ensure it’s juicy and flavorful:
- Marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes, but 2-4 hours is even better! The longer it sits, the more flavor it absorbs.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat before adding the chicken. This way, you’ll get nice grill marks and ensure the chicken cooks evenly.
- Don’t flip the chicken too often. Let it sear for about 6-8 minutes on each side to lock in juices.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). This avoids dry chicken.
Letting it rest for a few minutes after grilling allows the juices to distribute, making for a tender bite. 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 1-2 lemons)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (optional)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and mild flavor)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus a minimum of 30 minutes for marinating. For the best flavor, aim for 2 to 4 hours of marinating time. Grill the chicken in about 15-20 minutes, and your delicious meal will be ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme, rosemary (if you’re using it), paprika, salt, and pepper. This marinade is key for giving your chicken that delicious Greek flavor!
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 well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and give it a little shake or stir to mix everything together. Pop it in the refrigerator and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. For an even tastier result, let it sit for 2 to 4 hours!
3. Preheat the Grill and Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the chicken from sticking. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side. You’re looking for those beautiful grill marks and an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
4. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, take it off the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making each bite tender and juicy. Transfer the chicken to a serving plate, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and arrange some lemon wedges around for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve hot with your favorite sides like Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or fluffy rice.
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful Greek marinated chicken! It’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table! 🍗
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! This marinade works great with chicken thighs, drumsticks, or even bone-in chicken pieces. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as bone-in pieces may take longer to cook than boneless breasts.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating overnight will enhance the flavor even more! Just be cautious with the marinade’s acidity (from the lemon juice) as it can make the chicken a bit mushy if left too long. Aim for 6 to 12 hours for the best results.
What If I Don’t Have a Grill?
No worries! You can easily bake the marinated chicken in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and arrange the chicken on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can enjoy it cold in salads or reheat it gently in the microwave or stove to enjoy warm again!
