This Greek chicken marinade is a winner! With a mix of tangy lemon, zesty garlic, and aromatic herbs, it brings so much flavor to your chicken, making it juicy and tasty.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this marinade. However, you can substitute them with chicken thighs for a juicier result or use plant-based alternatives like tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a rich flavor. If you’re out, try avocado oil or a light vegetable oil as a replacement. Both will work well, though they have slightly different flavor profiles.
Lemons: Use fresh lemons for juice and zest since they provide the best flavor. If fresh lemons aren’t available, bottled lemon juice can work as a quick substitute, but it’s not quite as bright.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives a strong punch to the marinade. In a pinch, garlic powder works too. Just note that 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder is about equal to one clove of fresh garlic.
Herbs: Dried oregano and thyme are classic for Greek flavors. Fresh herbs are better if you have them, with about three times the amount used. If you’re lacking either herb, basil or rosemary can serve as good substitutes.
How Do You Make Sure the Chicken is Flavorful and Juicy?
The key to flavorful and juicy chicken lies in the marinating process. Allowing the chicken to sit in the marinade enhances its taste and tenderness. Here’s how to get it right:
- Mix the marinade well, so all the flavors blend together. Whisking helps emulsify the olive oil and lemon juice.
- For maximum flavor, let your chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better.
- Avoid leaving the chicken in the marinade for too long, as the acidity from the lemon can make it mushy. Stick to under 24 hours.
After marinating, remember to let the chicken rest after grilling to keep it juicy. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, giving you the perfect bite every time!
How to Make the Best Greek Chicken Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
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)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prepare the marinade, plus at least 2 hours to marinate the chicken—overnight is even better! Then, grilling the chicken will take around 15 minutes. That’s a total of around 30 minutes to 1 hour if you include marinating time. Just plan ahead for those amazing flavors to really soak in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a medium bowl. Add the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and minced garlic. Then sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until well combined. This flavorful mixture will be your marinade!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and place them in a large zip-lock bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s all well coated. If you’re using a zip-lock bag, seal it tightly and give it a gentle shake. If you’re using a dish, cover it with plastic wrap. Place the chicken in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 2 hours, but for the best flavor, let it sit overnight.
3. Preheat and Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Take the chicken out of the marinade (don’t forget to discard the leftover marinade). Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side. You’re looking for the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and have those lovely grill marks! If you have some lemon slices, toss them on the grill during the last few minutes to get them caramelized and delicious.
4. Let It Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This will help keep all those tasty juices inside. After resting, slice the chicken and garnish it with some fresh chopped parsley. Serve it with the grilled lemon slices on the side for an extra zing. Enjoy your tasty Greek chicken!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Marinade?
Yes, you can! Just be aware that bone-in chicken will take longer to cook than boneless. Aim for around 10-12 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Keep the grill covered to help cook evenly.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Lemons?
No problem! You can substitute fresh lemon juice with bottled lemon juice. Use about half the amount for a less intense flavor, and always taste as you go. Alternatively, apple cider vinegar can work in a pinch for a different tangy twist; use it in equal parts to the lemon juice.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, let the chicken cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day ahead and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. Just give it a good shake before pouring it over the chicken to ensure all the ingredients are well mixed again.
