This Easy Greek Marinated Chicken is packed with flavor, thanks to tasty herbs like oregano and refreshing lemon juice. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. However, you can use thighs for a richer flavor or even shrimp if you’re in the mood for seafood. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!
Olive Oil: This is essential for a good marinade. While I love extra virgin for its flavor, any light olive oil works too. You can also substitute with avocado oil if you’re looking for a higher smoke point.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is best! Bottled juice can work in a pinch, but it lacks that fresh flavor. If you’re out of lemons, vinegar could be a substitute, but it’s more potent, so use less—around 1 tablespoon should do!
Dried Oregano: This herb gives the dish its Greek flair. If you don’t have it, Italian seasoning can be a good alternative, or try fresh oregano if you can find it! It’s more fragrant and you’d need about three times the amount.
Garlic: I love using fresh garlic for the best taste. If you’re short on time, garlic powder is an option but remember to reduce the amount, as it’s more concentrated.
What’s the Best Way to Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating chicken properly is key to infusing flavor. Here are a few tips to ensure your chicken turns out delicious:
- Time Matters: Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but 2-4 hours is ideal. This allows the flavors to really soak in.
- Use a Zip-lock Bag: It helps ensure the chicken is well-coated in the marinade and saves space in the fridge.
- Don’t Overdo it: Avoid marinating too long (more than 24 hours), especially with acidic ingredients, as it can change the texture of the chicken.
By following these tips, you’ll guarantee juicy, flavorful chicken every time!
Easy Greek Marinated Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time and a minimum of 30 minutes for marinating. If you can, let the chicken marinate for 2-4 hours for the best flavor. The cooking time on the grill is approximately 12-14 minutes. So overall, plan for about 15 minutes of hands-on time plus marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, cumin (if you choose to use it), paprika, salt, and black pepper. This will create a delicious marinade that flavors the chicken beautifully!
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 each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or 2-4 hours for even more flavor.
3. Prepare to Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to stop the chicken from sticking. This step helps achieve those lovely grill marks!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and has those nice grill marks.
5. Finish and Serve:
Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and place lemon wedges around the chicken for a lovely presentation. Serve immediately and enjoy squeezing the lemon over the top for added zest!
FAQ for Easy Greek Marinated Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used for a richer flavor and more juiciness. Just remember that they may require a slightly longer cooking time, around 7-8 minutes per side.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Fresh Lemon Juice?
If you don’t have fresh lemon juice, bottled lemon juice can work as a substitute. Just use a bit less, around 2 tablespoons. Keep in mind that fresh juice has a brighter flavor!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover marinated chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Grill This Chicken Indoors?
Yes, you can grill the chicken indoors using a grill pan on your stovetop! Just make sure to use medium-high heat and oil the pan to prevent sticking. Cooking times should be similar!
