This Easy Greek Marinated Chicken is bursting with flavor! It combines juicy chicken with a tasty mix of olive oil, lemon, garlic, and herbs. Grilling it makes the chicken even better!
Trust me, the smell of this chicken cooking will make everyone come running to the kitchen. I love serving it with a fresh salad or fluffy rice. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work just as well. They are juicier and sometimes more flavorful!
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for a robust flavor. If you need an alternative, avocado oil can be a great substitute due to its high smoke point and mild flavor.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice is an acceptable substitute in a pinch. Just be aware that it may have a slightly different taste.
Oregano: While dried oregano is standard, fresh oregano can elevate the dish even more. If you can’t find it, use Italian seasoning as a general substitute.
What’s the Best Way to Marinate Chicken?
Marinating chicken allows it to soak up all those vibrant flavors! Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Whisk together the marinade ingredients in a bowl until combined.
- Place chicken in a resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated.
- Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but aim for 3-4 hours if you can for maximum flavor. Don’t marinate too long, as the acid can change the texture.
Remember, the longer it marinates, the better the flavor! Make sure not to skip the resting step after grilling — it keeps the chicken juicy.
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 large lemon)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano (Greek oregano if available)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation, plus at least 1 hour (or up to 4 hours) for marinating. Grilling will take about 15 minutes. So, plan for a total of around 1 hour and 25 minutes, depending on your marinating time. Perfect for a delicious dinner without spending all evening in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). This mixture is going to add so much flavor to your chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour—though 3-4 hours is even better for more flavor!
3. Preheat Your Grill:
While your chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grate to keep the chicken from sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Discard the leftover marinade—it’s been in contact with raw chicken. Grill the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and have nice charred grill marks.
5. Rest and Garnish:
Once the chicken is done, transfer it to a serving platter and let it rest for 5 minutes. This step is key to keeping the chicken juicy! After resting, garnish with chopped fresh parsley and arrange lemon wedges around the chicken for a beautiful presentation.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your easy and flavorful Greek marinated chicken hot with your favorite side dishes, like Greek salad, fluffy rice, or grilled vegetables. Enjoy every juicy bite!
FAQ for Easy Greek Marinated Chicken
Can I Use Other Cuts of Chicken?
Absolutely! While this recipe uses boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their ease and tenderness, you can substitute with chicken thighs or drumsticks. Just note that cooking times may vary slightly; thighs may need an additional minute or two on the grill.
How Long Should I Marinate the Chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but 3-4 hours is ideal. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes can impart some good flavor, but try not to go below that for optimal taste.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Just ensure it’s stored in the refrigerator to keep it safe. If you need to make the chicken ahead, cook and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
What Should I Serve With This Chicken?
This Greek marinated chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Serve it with a fresh Greek salad, fluffy rice, grilled vegetables, or even pita bread for a complete meal. A side of tzatziki sauce would also complement the flavors beautifully!
