Greek Chicken Marinade

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Greek Chicken Marinade is packed with bold Mediterranean flavors that are both refreshing and savory. The combination of lemon juice and olive oil creates a tangy, rich base, while garlic and fresh herbs like oregano and thyme add depth and aroma. The marinade not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also helps keep it juicy and tender. It’s quick to prepare and can be used for grilling, roasting, or even as a marinade for chicken skewers. Perfect for chicken breasts, thighs, or even drumsticks, this marinade is versatile and easy to make.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon dried oregano (or 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped)

• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a bit of tanginess)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (optional, for extra depth of flavor)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and pepper. If you’d like an extra tang, add a tablespoon of red wine vinegar.

2. Marinate the chicken: Place your chicken (breasts, thighs, or drumsticks) in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you have time.

3. Cook the chicken: Once the chicken is marinated, remove it from the marinade and cook it to your preferred method:

   • Grilling: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side (for breasts), or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

   • Baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the chicken on a lined baking sheet for 25-30 minutes, or until fully cooked.

   • Pan-searing: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of olive oil. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

4. Serve: Serve your Greek chicken with a side of roasted vegetables, a Greek salad, or over rice or orzo. Garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for added freshness.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Marinate Time: 30 minutes to 4 hours (or overnight)

• Cook Time: 20-30 minutes (depending on the cooking method)

• Total Time: 35-45 minutes (not including marinating time)

Variations

• Add spice: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely chopped fresh chili to the marinade.

• Use fresh herbs: If you have fresh herbs like oregano or thyme on hand, feel free to substitute them for the dried versions for a more vibrant flavor.

• Add honey: For a touch of sweetness, whisk in a teaspoon of honey to balance the acidity of the lemon.

• Vegan version: While this recipe is designed for chicken, you can use this marinade for tofu or vegetables like zucchini or eggplant for a delicious plant-based meal.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover chicken that’s already cooked can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you have leftover marinade (unused), discard it after marinating the chicken to avoid contamination.

• Reheating: Reheat leftover chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use this marinade for other meats?

Yes! This marinade works well for lamb, pork, or even fish like salmon. Just be sure to adjust the marinating time depending on the protein: fish requires less time (about 30 minutes), while lamb or pork can marinate for up to 4 hours.

Can I make this marinade ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this marinade ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2-3 days before using it.

Can I freeze the marinade?

Yes! You can freeze the marinade in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Simply defrost it in the fridge overnight before using.

Can I skip the mustard in the marinade?

Yes, the mustard is optional. It adds a bit of tang and helps emulsify the marinade, but the chicken will still taste great without it.

Can I use this marinade for grilling chicken skewers?

Absolutely! This marinade is perfect for skewers. Just marinate the chicken chunks and thread them onto skewers, then grill for 8-10 minutes until cooked through.

Can I use this marinade for chicken wings?

Yes, this marinade works wonderfully for chicken wings. Marinate the wings and grill, bake, or fry them for a flavorful appetizer or meal.

Can I use lemon zest instead of lemon juice?

Lemon zest will give a more concentrated lemon flavor but won’t provide the acidity of the juice. For the best results, use both lemon juice and zest together for a balanced flavor.

Conclusion

This Greek Chicken Marinade is an easy, flavorful way to elevate your chicken with the bright, aromatic flavors of the Mediterranean. With ingredients like lemon, garlic, olive oil, and herbs, it’s the perfect way to infuse your chicken with a tangy, savory marinade that keeps the meat juicy and flavorful. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or pan-searing, this marinade will help you create a delicious, tender chicken dish every time. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, this Greek Chicken Marinade is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!