If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bright, zesty flavors paired with tender, juicy chicken, you’ve hit the jackpot with this Greek Marinated Chicken Recipe. This recipe brings together the creamy tang of Greek yogurt, the vibrant zest and juice of lemons, and the fragrant medley of herbs and spices, creating a marinade that infuses every bite with Mediterranean sunshine. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or entertaining friends, this recipe is a wonderfully simple way to deliver mouthwatering results that feel both fresh and satisfyingly hearty. Once you try it, Greek Marinated Chicken Recipe will surely become a cherished favorite in your meal rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Greek Marinated Chicken Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each carefully chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and color. These pantry staples create a marinade that’s creamy, herbaceous, tangy, and garlicky—all the qualities that make Greek cuisine so irresistible.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps distribute the marinade evenly while keeping the chicken moist.
- Greek yogurt (plain): The key to tenderizing the chicken and giving it a creamy texture without overwhelming the other flavors.
- Zest of 1 lemon: Brings a fresh, bright aroma that enlivens the marinade.
- Juice of 3 lemons: Adds acidity to tenderize and brighten the chicken flavor.
- Garlic (5 cloves, minced or pressed): Provides a pungent and warming element that complements the herbs perfectly.
- Dried oregano (2 tablespoons): The quintessential Greek herb, offering an earthy and slightly minty note.
- Coriander (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle citrusy undertone to deepen the flavor profile.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Enhances savoriness without overpowering the dish.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for flavor balance and seasoning.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Gives just a hint of spice to complement the marinade.
- Chicken breasts (2 lbs): Lean and tender, perfect for soaking up all the vibrant marinade flavors.
How to Make Greek Marinated Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Whisk Together the Marinade
Begin by combining olive oil, Greek yogurt, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, coriander, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl. Whisk everything until smooth and perfectly blended; this mixture is the heart of your Greek Marinated Chicken Recipe, ready to coat the chicken with all its vibrant flavors.
Step 2: Coat and Marinate the Chicken
Next, add your chicken breasts to the bowl, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it into the refrigerator. Marinate for at least 30 minutes to let those flavors seep in deeply, but for the best taste and tenderness, let it sit for up to 24 hours if you have the time.
Step 3: Prepare Chicken for Cooking
About 30 minutes before cooking, remove the chicken from the refrigerator to allow it to come to room temperature. This step ensures the chicken cooks evenly, giving you juicy, tender results every time.
Step 4: Preheat and Sear the Chicken
Set your oven to 400°F and lightly oil a grill pan, heating it over medium-high heat on the stovetop. Once hot, sear the chicken breasts on one side for about 5 minutes. This sizzling step locks in moisture and builds a beautiful golden crust while preserving the marinade’s flavors.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
After searing, carefully flip the chicken, then transfer the grill pan to the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This oven finish ensures the chicken cooks through perfectly without drying out.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This short wait allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in incredibly tender slices that melt in your mouth, the signature finish of a great Greek Marinated Chicken Recipe.
How to Serve Greek Marinated Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes elevate the dish to the next level. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or dill over the chicken for a burst of color and herbaceous brightness. A few lemon wedges on the side add extra zing and let everyone customize the tartness to their liking.
Side Dishes
Greek cuisine is all about balance, so serving the marinated chicken with sides like fluffy couscous, a light cucumber and tomato salad, or creamy tzatziki complements the flavors wonderfully. Roasted vegetables or a simple Greek salad loaded with olives and feta cheese also make fantastic companions.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the plate by slicing the chicken and layering it in a warm pita wrap with fresh veggies and a dollop of tzatziki for a handheld meal that’s bursting with flavor. You can also serve it over a bed of herbed rice or mixed greens to create an elegant yet effortless dinner presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover Greek Marinated Chicken Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep its tangy and tender qualities for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked or marinated (but uncooked) chicken in sealed containers or freezer bags. For best flavor, freeze portions separately so you can thaw just what you need. Marinated chicken keeps well frozen for up to 3 months without sacrificing taste.
Reheating
Reheat leftover chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven to keep it moist and tender. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry the chicken out. If necessary, cover the chicken to trap steam and add a splash of water or broth to revive juiciness.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option for Greek Marinated Chicken Recipe because they stay juicy and tender. Just adjust cooking times since thighs may need a few extra minutes to cook through.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
The chicken should marinate for at least 30 minutes to soak up the flavors, but it’s even better if you let it rest overnight, up to 24 hours, for maximum flavor and tenderness.
Is this marinade suitable for grilling?
Yes! This marinade is perfect for both stovetop grilling and outdoor grills. Just be mindful of flare-ups since the yogurt and oils can drip onto the flames. Keep the heat medium to avoid burning.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You could substitute the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative, like coconut or almond-based yogurt. Keep in mind the texture and flavor might vary slightly, but it will still be delicious!
What can I do with leftover marinade?
Since the marinade was in contact with raw chicken, it’s best not to reuse it directly. Instead, reserve some marinade before adding the chicken if you want a sauce, or make a fresh batch to drizzle over cooked chicken.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about this Greek Marinated Chicken Recipe. It’s easy to make, packed with fresh and vibrant flavors, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re new to Greek cooking or a seasoned fan, this recipe will brighten up your table and warm your heart. Don’t wait to try it and experience firsthand why it’s such a beloved classic!
Print
Greek Marinated Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (including marinating time)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Greek Marinated Chicken features tender chicken breasts infused with a vibrant marinade of olive oil, Greek yogurt, lemon, garlic, and aromatic herbs. Marinated for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor and baked to juicy perfection, it makes for a healthy and delicious Mediterranean-inspired main dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Marinade
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 3 lemons
- 5 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
- 2 tablespoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Main
- 2 lbs. chicken breast
Instructions
- Prepare 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 and smooth.
- Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and coat them evenly with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Bring chicken to room temperature: Approximately 30 minutes before cooking, remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature to ensure even cooking.
- Preheat and prepare for cooking: 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 without moving them to develop a nice browned crust. Flip the chicken breasts, then transfer the grill pan to the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Rest before serving: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy and tender meat before serving.
Notes
- Marinating for longer than 30 minutes intensifies flavor, but avoid exceeding 24 hours to prevent the yogurt’s acidity from breaking down the chicken excessively.
- If you don’t have a grill pan, you may use a regular oven-safe skillet.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through without drying it out.
- This dish pairs well with a Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or rice pilaf.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and are great for salads or wraps.
