This Easy Greek Marinated Chicken is packed with flavor! The chicken soaks in a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, making it juicy and aromatic.
I love grilling this chicken on a sunny day, and it pairs perfectly with a fresh salad. Plus, the leftovers make great sandwiches for lunch. Yummy and hassle-free!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe because they cook quickly and stay juicy. You can substitute with thighs for a richer flavor or even use tofu for a vegetarian option.
Olive Oil: This adds healthy fats and flavor. If you’re out, you can use canola or avocado oil. They won’t taste the same, but they’ll work.
Garlic: Fresh garlic provides a punchy flavor. If you don’t have fresh, try 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder instead. Just remember, it’s not as strong, so adjust to your taste.
Dried Oregano: This is a key flavor in Greek dishes! If you don’t have it, Italian seasoning can be a good substitute as it often includes oregano.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish. Bottled juice can work in a pinch, but fresh has more zing! Lime juice is also a nice alternative.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with a few simple steps, you can achieve juicy, well-cooked pieces! Here’s how:
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high before adding the chicken. This helps to sear the outside!
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but 2 hours is best to get all those flavors infused.
- Don’t keep flipping the chicken! Let it cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side to get nice grill marks.
- Always check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe eating. A meat thermometer is your best friend here!
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling. This step is crucial as it helps to keep the chicken juicy.
These tips will ensure you have perfectly grilled Greek chicken every time. 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)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (optional)
- 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 ideally should marinate for at least 30 minutes; however, for the best flavor, aim for 2 hours. Grilling the chicken will take another 12-15 minutes. In total, you can expect about 45 minutes to 2 hours and 15 minutes, depending on your marination time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme, rosemary (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined. This will be your flavorful marinade!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, making sure that all pieces are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but aim for up to 2 hours for the best taste.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, which is about 400°F (200°C). If you don’t have a grill, you can also cook the chicken in a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat on the stove.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Once marinated, remove the chicken from the bag or dish, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken has nice grill marks.
5. Rest the Chicken:
Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps the juices redistribute within the chicken, keeping it moist and flavorful!
6. Serve:
After resting, slice the chicken as desired. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top. It goes wonderfully with a Greek salad, rice, or warm pita bread and tzatziki sauce. Enjoy your delicious Greek chicken!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra flavor and moisture to the dish. Just remember that they may take a couple of extra minutes to cook compared to breasts, so check the internal temperature for doneness.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes, but for best flavor, aim for 2 hours. If you’re short on time, even a quick marinate will enhance the taste, but avoid marinating for more than 24 hours to keep the texture from changing.
What is the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to maintain its juiciness.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken in advance. Just make sure to cook it the same day for the best flavor. Alternatively, grilled chicken can be cooked ahead and stored for later use.
