Greek Marinated Chicken Recipe
If you’ve ever wished for a chicken recipe bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors yet incredibly easy to prepare, you’re in for a treat with this Greek Marinated Chicken Recipe. Picture tender chicken breasts soaked in a luscious blend of creamy Greek yogurt, zesty lemon, garlic, and herbs that infuse every bite with a Mediterranean sunshine vibe. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug from the Aegean Sea, perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings where everyone asks for seconds. Once you try this recipe, it will likely become one of your most-requested meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Greek Marinated Chicken Recipe lies in its simplicity and quality ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding tanginess, herby aroma, or that silky texture that makes the chicken irresistible.
- ¼ cup olive oil: The foundation for a smooth marinade that helps keep the chicken juicy and adds a hint of fruity richness.
- ½ cup Greek yogurt (plain): Adds creamy tang and tenderizes the chicken for melt-in-your-mouth results.
- Zest of 1 lemon: Provides a bright, citrus fragrance without overpowering the dish.
- Juice of 3 lemons: The star ingredient that delivers fresh acidity, balancing all the flavors perfectly.
- 5 cloves garlic (minced or pressed): Introduces a robust, savory punch that complements the herbs beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons dried oregano: This classic Greek herb brings an earthy, slightly peppery taste essential for authenticity.
- 1 teaspoon coriander: Adds a subtle warmth and complexity to the herb and spice blend.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances depth with gentle sweetness and a touch of savoriness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and unlocking the flavors of all other ingredients.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Brings a mild heat and liveliness to the marinade.
- 2 lbs. chicken breast: The lean protein that soaks up all these wonderful flavors and pairs perfectly with the marinade.
How to Make Greek Marinated Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl and whisk together the olive oil, Greek yogurt, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, coriander, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This vibrant marinade combines creamy, tangy, and herbal notes that will gently tenderize and flavor your chicken breasts. The key here is to create a smooth, well-blended sauce that evenly coats the meat.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place your chicken breasts into the bowl and toss them around until each piece is fully covered with the marinade. Be generous—every inch of chicken should be soaked in that luscious mixture. Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but if you can plan ahead, letting it marinate up to 24 hours amps up the flavor and ensures even more tender chicken.
Step 3: Bring Chicken to Room Temperature
About half an hour before cooking, take the chicken out of the fridge to allow it to reach room temperature. This step helps everything cook evenly, so your chicken won’t be dry or unevenly done.
Step 4: Preheat and Sear
While the chicken rests, preheat your oven to 400°F. Lightly oil a grill pan and put it on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken breasts skin-side down (or just the smooth side if skinless) and sear for about 5 minutes. This will give lovely grill marks and a slightly crispy outer layer that’s unforgettable.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Flip the chicken breasts carefully, then transfer the entire pan to the preheated oven. Bake for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The oven finish keeps the inside tender and juicy, locking in those Greek-inspired flavors.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
After baking, resist the urge to cut immediately! Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes so the juices redistribute inside. This final step guarantees every bite is moist and flavorful.
How to Serve Greek Marinated Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes elevate this Greek Marinated Chicken Recipe from great to unforgettable. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or oregano over the top for a burst of herbal color and brightness. Thin lemon slices or a little crumbled feta add a gorgeous visual and taste contrast that complements the marinade perfectly.
Side Dishes
The beauty of this chicken is how well it pairs with a variety of Mediterranean-inspired sides. Think a simple Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, olives, and feta tossed in olive oil and oregano. Or warm pita bread alongside some tzatziki sauce for dipping makes the meal feel complete. Roasted vegetables or lemony quinoa also bring lovely texture and balance.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress, slice the chicken thinly and layer over a bed of couscous or orzo tossed with fresh herbs. Alternatively, stuff the chicken into pita wraps with crunchy veggies and a drizzle of yogurt sauce for handheld Greek-inspired street food. Serving alongside a colorful platter of roasted Mediterranean veggies adds a festive touch every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Greek Marinated Chicken Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making your next meal even more delicious!
Freezing
This chicken freezes well if you want to prep in advance. Place cooled chicken breasts in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing excess air, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F until just heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the chicken. Adding a splash of water or broth in the pan helps keep it juicy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in the Greek Marinated Chicken Recipe and can be even more tender and flavorful thanks to their higher fat content. Just adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure they are fully cooked.
Is Greek yogurt necessary for the marinade?
Greek yogurt is a key ingredient because it tenderizes the chicken and adds creamy tang. If you don’t have it, plain yogurt can be a substitute, but Greek yogurt’s thickness and flavor really make a difference.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
The marinade is effective after just 30 minutes, but for maximum flavor and tenderness, letting it sit up to 24 hours in the fridge is best. Avoid marinating longer than 24 hours as the acid may break down the chicken too much.
Can I grill the marinated chicken?
Yes! The flavors are fantastic on the grill. Just be sure to oil your grill grates well and cook the chicken over medium heat to avoid flare-ups while getting that lovely char.
What sides pair best with Greek Marinated Chicken Recipe?
Traditional sides like Greek salad, roasted potatoes, tzatziki sauce, or pita bread go perfectly. Light grains like couscous or orzo with fresh herbs also complement the tangy, herby chicken beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Greek Marinated Chicken Recipe truly feels like bringing a slice of the Mediterranean right into your kitchen. The blend of fresh lemon, garlic, and herbs paired with creamy yogurt makes every bite an absolute delight. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is sure to brighten your day and your dinner plate. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite chicken dish.
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Greek Marinated Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Greek Marinated Chicken recipe features tender, flavorful chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of Greek yogurt, lemon, garlic, and classic Mediterranean herbs. The chicken is first marinated to infuse it with bright, fresh flavors, then seared on the stovetop before finishing in the oven for a juicy and perfectly cooked result. Ideal for a healthy weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
Marinade
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ½ cup Greek yogurt (plain)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 3 lemons
- 5 cloves garlic (minced or pressed)
- 2 tablespoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Main
- 2 lbs. chicken breast
Instructions
- Make the marinade: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, Greek yogurt, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, coriander, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until fully combined.
- Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and coat them evenly with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Bring to room temperature: About 30 minutes before cooking, remove the chicken from the refrigerator to let it come to room temperature which ensures even cooking.
- Preheat and prepare cookware: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Lightly oil a grill pan and heat it over medium-high heat on the stovetop until hot.
- Sear and bake the chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the hot grill pan and sear on one side for 5 minutes to develop a golden crust. Flip the chicken over, then transfer the pan to the preheated oven. Bake the chicken for 15 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing or serving. This helps retain the juices for moist and tender meat.
Notes
- Marinating for longer (up to 24 hours) will enhance the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.
- Using a grill pan gives the chicken attractive grill marks and additional flavor from the sear.
- Ensure chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature for safe consumption.
- Leftover chicken is great cold in salads or wraps the next day.
- Substitute chicken thighs if preferred, but reduce baking time slightly as thighs cook faster.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
