This Greek Marinated Chicken is bursting with flavor! It’s made with tasty ingredients like olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. The marinade makes the chicken super juicy and tender.
When I make this, I can’t help but daydream about sunny Greece! 😄 Serve it with some fresh vegetables or a salad for a light and yummy meal. Trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great for this recipe. You can swap them for thighs if you prefer dark meat, which can be juicier. If you want a vegetarian option, try using firm tofu or portobello mushrooms, marinated similar to the chicken.
Olive Oil: Olive oil gives a nice flavor, but you can replace it with canola or avocado oil for a milder taste. If you’re looking for a healthier choice, use a light olive oil instead.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish. If you’re out of fresh lemons, you can use bottled lemon juice, though fresh is always best. Lime juice is also a flavorful alternative.
Dried Oregano: Dried oregano is key in Greek dishes, but thyme or Italian seasoning can replace it in a pinch. If you’re using fresh herbs, use three times the amount of fresh oregano.
Red Pepper Flakes: These add a hint of spice. If you prefer no heat, feel free to leave them out. For different flavors, try using smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper.
How Do I Get Juicy Grilled Chicken Every Time?
To ensure your chicken is juicy and flavorful, marination is crucial. Letting it sit in the marinade for at least 1 hour allows the flavors to soak in. If you have time, 6 hours is even better!
- After marinating, let the chicken drip off excess marinade before grilling for the best grill marks.
- Preheat your grill so you get a nice sear, which helps lock in moisture.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C)—that’s the sweet spot for perfectly cooked chicken.
- Let the grilled chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
How to Make Greek Marinated Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and at least 1 hour to marinate in the fridge. If you can let it marinate for 6 hours, the flavor will be even better! After marinating, grilling will take around 15 minutes. Overall, you can enjoy delicious Greek Marinated Chicken in just over an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, dried oregano, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). This will be your tasty marinade that adds lots of flavor to the chicken!
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 each piece is coated well. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it into the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or up to 6 hours if you have time—this makes it even tastier!
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Take the chicken out of the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Discard the marinade—it’s done its job! Grill the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and they have nice grill marks.
4. Let It Rest and Garnish:
Once the chicken is grilled, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps it stay juicy. Before serving, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top and add a few lemon slices for a beautiful finish. Enjoy your Greek Marinated Chicken!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken! Just keep in mind that it will take longer to cook compared to boneless breasts. Aim for about 10-15 minutes longer on the grill, and always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, you can substitute it with avocado oil or canola oil. Both will give you a nice flavor without altering the dish significantly. However, if you want a touch of extra flavor, try using a flavored oil like garlic-infused oil.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
For the best results, marinate your chicken for at least 1 hour, but you can extend this to up to 6 hours. Just be careful not to marinate too long (beyond 6 hours) as the acid from the lemon juice can make the chicken mushy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, the chicken can be warmed gently on the grill to retain some grill marks, or in the microwave until heated through. Enjoy your chicken in salads or wraps for an easy next-day meal!
