This Easy Greek Marinated Chicken is juicy and packed with flavor! With fresh herbs, lemon juice, and garlic, it’s perfect for grilling or baking.
I love how simple this recipe is! Just toss the chicken in the marinade, let it soak up the goodness, then cook it. It’s a real crowd-pleaser that makes dinner fun!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness.
Olive Oil: This adds healthy fats and enhances flavor. You can substitute avocado oil or any neutral oil like canola if you prefer.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the marinade. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice will do in a pinch, but fresh is always best!
Herbs: Dried oregano is key for that Greek taste. If you can’t find it, try Italian seasoning or use fresh oregano if available. Just double the amount when fresh.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a strong flavor. You can substitute garlic powder, but use less—about 1/4 teaspoon, as it’s more concentrated.
How Do I Get My Chicken Juicy and Flavorful?
The marinating step is crucial to infuse flavor and keep the chicken juicy. Here’s how to get the best results:
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors, but longer (up to 2 hours) is better for deep flavor.
- Don’t skip the resting step after grilling! Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
- Ensure your grill is hot before adding the chicken. A good sear will lock in juices.
By following these tips, you’ll have delicious, juicy chicken every time!
Easy Greek Marinated Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 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 of prep time, plus at least 30 minutes to marinate. After marinating, you’ll need about 15 minutes to grill the chicken. Overall, you can expect around 55 minutes to enjoy this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium mixing bowl or a zip-top bag, combine the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme, rosemary, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk or shake well to combine. This will be your flavorful marinade!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken breasts to your marinade, making sure each piece is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Aim to refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but 1-2 hours is even better for maximum flavor absorption!
3. Prepare for Grilling:
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the chicken from sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Remove the chicken from the marinade and give it a little shake to get rid of excess marinade. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and has beautiful grill marks.
5. Let it Rest:
Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken nice and juicy.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your delicious chicken with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor. Enjoy your juicy, flavorful Easy Greek Marinated Chicken!
This recipe creates tender grilled chicken infused with classic Greek flavors from oregano, lemon, and garlic, making it a perfect option for a healthy, delicious meal!
FAQ for Easy Greek Marinated Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitute and will be even juicier because of their higher fat content. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed, as thighs may take a few extra minutes to cook through.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
Your chicken can be marinated for anywhere from 30 minutes up to 2 days. If you’re marinating for longer than 2 hours, it’s best to keep it in the fridge to ensure freshness and safety.
What Should I Serve This Chicken With?
This Greek marinated chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it over rice, with a Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or in pita wraps with tzatziki sauce for a delicious and complete meal.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent it from drying out.
