This Greek chicken marinade is a total game-changer! Packed with tangy lemon, zesty garlic, and aromatic herbs, it infuses your chicken with incredible flavor, leaving it juicy, tender, and downright delicious.
Key Ingredients & Easy Substitutions
Chicken Breasts:
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work perfectly here. Prefer darker meat? Swap them for chicken thighs for even juicier results. For a vegetarian version, tofu or tempeh are great substitutes.
Olive Oil:
Extra virgin olive oil adds a rich, fruity flavor to the marinade. No olive oil? Avocado oil or a light vegetable oil will work in a pinch, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Lemons:
Fresh lemons bring the brightest, freshest flavor with both their juice and zest. If fresh lemons aren’t on hand, bottled lemon juice is an option—just know it won’t taste quite as vibrant.
Garlic:
Fresh minced garlic delivers a bold punch. If you’re short on fresh cloves, garlic powder can fill in—about 1/8 teaspoon of powder equals one clove.
Herbs:
Dried oregano and thyme are traditional in Greek cooking. Fresh herbs are even better if available—use three times the dried amount. Missing one? Basil or rosemary can easily stand in.
Tips for Juicy, Flavorful Chicken
The secret to juicy, flavorful chicken is all about the marinade—and a little patience!
- Whisk it well: This helps the olive oil and lemon juice blend properly.
- Marinate long enough: Let the chicken soak for at least 2 hours in the fridge; overnight gives even better flavor.
- Don’t overdo it: Marinating for more than 24 hours can make the meat mushy because of the lemon’s acidity.
- Rest after grilling: Let the chicken sit for a few minutes before slicing to lock in the juices.
How to Make the Best Greek Chicken Marinade
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- 1–2 lemons, sliced (for grilling)
Time Needed
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Marinate Time: At least 2 hours (overnight preferred)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total: About 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on how long you marinate.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper until combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
3. Grill the Chicken:
When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (discard the leftover marinade). Grill the chicken for about 6–8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). For extra flavor, grill lemon slices alongside the chicken during the last few minutes.
4. Rest and Serve:
After grilling, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve with the grilled lemon slices for a bright, zesty finish!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken?
Definitely! Bone-in chicken works great but takes a bit longer to cook—around 10–12 minutes per side. Cover the grill for even cooking and check for that 165°F (75°C) internal temperature.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Lemons?
No worries. Bottled lemon juice can substitute—use slightly less for a milder taste. You can also use apple cider vinegar for a different kind of tang, swapping it in equal amounts.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Want to freeze it? Let the chicken cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe bag or container. It’ll stay good for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes! Whip up the marinade a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good shake or stir before using it to remix the flavors.
This Greek chicken marinade brings fresh, bold flavors to your dinner table with hardly any effort. Whether you’re grilling for a weeknight meal or prepping for a weekend cookout, this recipe is a go-to favorite!
Would you also like me to suggest a shorter version you could use for a printable recipe card or a Pinterest pin? 🌟