Greek Chicken Marinade

There’s nothing quite like the irresistible flavor of a well-marinated dish, and that’s exactly what you get with this Greek Chicken Marinade. I remember the first time I tried Greek chicken at a local restaurant; the tangy notes of lemon and the aromatic herbs just exploded on my taste buds. From that moment, I was determined to recreate that rich flavor in my own kitchen. Weekends were often spent experimenting with various marinades, but nothing compared to the simplicity and freshness of this one. It’s perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or any casual weeknight dinner.

What Goes Into Greek Chicken Marinade

The ingredients for this Greek Chicken Marinade are not only simple but also work harmoniously together to create a delightful flavor profile. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of zest, creaminess, and herbaceous notes.

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts – This is the main protein that absorbs the marinade beautifully, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
• ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt – The foundation of the marinade, it tenderizes the chicken, adding creaminess and a subtle tang.
• ¼ cup olive oil – This healthy fat helps the marinade cling to the chicken and adds richness.
• 4 lemons – Zesting and juicing these lemons brings a bright, zesty flavor to the dish.
• 4-5 cloves garlic, pressed or minced – Adds an aromatic punch that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
• 2 tablespoons dried oregano – A staple in Greek cuisine, it infuses a robust herbal flavor.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances all the flavors and helps in the marination process.
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – Adds a subtle kick.

Greek Chicken Marinade Instructions

Making this Greek Chicken Marinade is as straightforward as it gets, allowing us to focus on enjoying a delicious meal. Let’s dive into the steps!

1. Start by placing the chicken pieces in a freezer bag or a bowl. This will allow for easy marination.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, add the Greek yogurt and olive oil. Stir them together until well combined.
3. Zest one of the lemons and add the zest to the bowl. This adds a delightful citrus aroma.
4. Juice that same lemon into the bowl with the zest. Make sure there are no seeds!
5. Slice the other three lemons and set them aside. They’ll be grilled alongside the chicken.
6. Add the minced garlic, oregano, kosher salt, and black pepper to the bowl as well. Stir everything until it’s thoroughly mixed.
7. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken in the freezer bag or bowl, reserving the other half for basting later.
8. Seal the bag or cover the bowl, then marinate the chicken for 30 minutes to up to 3 hours in the refrigerator. The longer it marinates, the more flavor it absorbs.
9. When you’re ready to cook, prepare your grill by lightly oiling the grate with vegetable oil or cooking spray. Set the grill to medium-high heat.
10. Grill the marinated chicken, basting with the reserved marinade. Turn it often to achieve an even browning and those beautiful grill marks. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked, approximately 15 to 20 minutes, or until the juices run clear.
11. During the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the sliced lemons to the grill, turning them a few times.
12. Once cooked, allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with the grilled lemons for a burst of flavor. Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.

Recipe Variations about Greek Chicken Marinade

This Greek Chicken Marinade is so versatile that you can easily tweak it to suit your taste. Here are some variations to consider:

• Herb Variations: Feel free to mix in other fresh or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for additional flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy twist.
• Different Proteins: This marinade works well with pork or tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Grilled Vegetables: Use the same marinade for vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant to serve alongside the chicken.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the marinated chicken for up to three months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before cooking.
• Pairing Suggestions: Serve the chicken with a fresh Greek salad or some warm pita bread for a complete meal.

What Goes Well With This Greek Chicken Marinade

When serving your Greek Chicken Marinade, consider these delightful pairings:

• Greek Salad: A fresh salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta complements the chicken beautifully.
• Tzatziki Sauce: This cool yogurt sauce pairs well and adds an additional layer of flavor.
• Pita Bread: Warm, fluffy pita is perfect for soaking up the marinade flavors.
• Grilled Vegetables: Serve with grilled or roasted vegetables for a colorful and healthy side.
• Rice Pilaf: A side of seasoned rice pilaf adds substance to the meal and balances the flavors.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or casual dinners with friends.
• Storage Tips: Ensure leftovers are stored in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to three days.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Greek Chicken Marinade is a testament to the power of simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. Its zesty, creamy flavor profile is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So why not give it a try? You’ll be impressing your family and friends with a dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also bursting with delicious flavors. Enjoy the summer grilling season with this fantastic recipe!

Greek Chicken Marinade

The ultimate flavor bomb for your chicken dishes! This Greek Chicken Marinade offers a scrumptious blend of tangy lemon and aromatic herbs, transforming your weeknight dinners into culinary delights. Perfectly creamy yet refreshing, it’s a must-try for anyone craving an easy and delicious meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Greek

Servings 4 servings

Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Grater
• Chef's Knife

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts about 2 large breasts
• ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 4 units lemons
• 4-5 cloves garlic, pressed or minced
• 2 tablespoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

 

• Start by placing the chicken pieces in a freezer bag or a bowl. This will allow for easy marination.
• In a medium-sized bowl, add the Greek yogurt and olive oil. Stir them together until well combined.
• Zest one of the lemons and add the zest to the bowl. This adds a delightful citrus aroma.
• Juice that same lemon into the bowl with the zest. Make sure there are no seeds!
• Slice the other three lemons and set them aside. They’ll be grilled alongside the chicken.
• Add the minced garlic, oregano, kosher salt, and black pepper to the bowl as well. Stir everything until it’s thoroughly mixed.
• Pour half of the marinade over the chicken in the freezer bag or bowl, reserving the other half for basting later.
• Seal the bag or cover the bowl, then marinate the chicken for 30 minutes to up to 3 hours in the refrigerator. The longer it marinates, the more flavor it absorbs.
• When you’re ready to cook, prepare your grill by lightly oiling the grate with vegetable oil or cooking spray. Set the grill to medium-high heat.
• Grill the marinated chicken, basting with the reserved marinade. Turn it often to achieve an even browning and those beautiful grill marks. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked, approximately 15 to 20 minutes, or until the juices run clear.
• During the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the sliced lemons to the grill, turning them a few times.
• Once cooked, allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with the grilled lemons for a burst of flavor. Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.

Notes

• Marinating Time: Marinating the chicken allows it to absorb all those wonderful flavors. The longer, the better!
• Grilling Tips: Make sure your grill is preheated to ensure even cooking and to prevent sticking.
• Checking Doneness: Always check the internal temperature of the chicken; it should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety.
• Resting Period: Letting the chicken rest after grilling helps retain its juices, ensuring every bite is tender.

Keyword easy chicken marinade, Greek Chicken Marinade, Healthy Chicken Recipes, summer grilling recipe

Previous PostSpanakopita Melt

Next Post Chocolate Chip Coconut Muffins

Meet Eva Sterling

I have a restless palate and I love that our blog covers such a wide range of food. I am always excited to cook something we haven’t tried before. I jump into every cooking session with enthusiasm, ready to chop, sauté, bake, or grill. I love the collaborative energy of our kitchen we all learn from each other, and that makes every dish we publish better.