If you’ve been searching for a vibrant and flavorful dish that truly captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine, this Greek Marinated Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need in your kitchen repertoire. Infused with zesty lemon, aromatic oregano, and the creamy tang of Greek yogurt, this recipe transforms simple chicken breasts into juicy, tender delights bursting with sunshine and savory goodness. Whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight dinner or entertaining friends, this dish brings a fresh, authentic taste of Greece right to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Greek Marinated Chicken Recipe lies in its simplicity and the magic each ingredient brings. From the bright lemon juice that tenderizes the chicken to the earthy oregano enhancing every bite, each component plays a crucial role in layering the irresistible flavor profile.
- ¼ cup olive oil: A classic Mediterranean staple that adds richness and helps meld the marinade’s flavors together.
- ½ cup Greek yogurt (plain): This creamy ingredient tenderizes the chicken and imparts a subtle tang, keeping the meat moist.
- Zest of 1 lemon: The lemon zest delivers an intense citrus aroma that brightens the entire dish.
- Juice of 3 lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides acidity to tenderize and infuse the chicken with bright flavor.
- 5 cloves garlic (minced or pressed): Garlic adds a pungent warmth that complements the herbs and citrus beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons dried oregano: This quintessential Greek herb lends an earthy, slightly bitter note that anchors the marinade.
- 1 teaspoon coriander: Adds a subtle citrusy-spicy undertone connecting with the lemon and garlic.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances savory depth and rounds out the flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing flavors and seasoning the chicken throughout.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: A hint of heat that awakens the palate without overpowering the dish.
- 2 lbs. chicken breast: The lean protein that soaks up the vibrant marinade perfectly, resulting in juicy, tender bites.
How to Make Greek Marinated Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together olive oil, Greek yogurt, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, coriander, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. This mixture is your flavor powerhouse, combining creaminess, acidity, and herbs to create a marinade that will penetrate the chicken deeply for maximum taste.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts into the bowl with the marinade and toss or turn them until they are completely coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but preferably for a few hours or up to 24 hours if you want the flavors to intensify even further.
Step 3: Bring Chicken to Room Temperature
Take the chicken out of the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking so it warms up slightly. This step ensures more even cooking and helps lock in the juiciness of the meat.
Step 4: Preheat and Prepare to Cook
Heat your oven to 400°F. Lightly oil a grill pan and place it over medium-high heat on the stovetop to get it smoking hot. This setup is perfect to quickly sear the chicken, giving it a gorgeous golden crust while retaining moisture inside.
Step 5: Sear and Bake the Chicken
Sear the chicken breasts in the hot pan for about 5 minutes on one side, creating a flavorful outer layer. Flip the chicken, then transfer the pan to the preheated oven. Let the chicken bake for 15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
Step 6: Rest Before Serving
Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes once out of the oven. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, making each bite tender and juicy instead of dry.
How to Serve Greek Marinated Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few crumbles of feta cheese make perfect garnishes. They add a lovely pop of color and an extra layer of traditional Greek flavor that complements the marinade beautifully.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs wonderfully with a fresh Greek salad filled with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and red onions dressed in olive oil and lemon. Also, consider serving it alongside fluffy rice pilaf or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more casual approach, slice the chicken thinly and serve it in warm pita pockets with tzatziki sauce and crunchy veggies. Alternatively, serve the chicken over a bed of orzo tossed with herbs and lemon for an elegant, colorful presentation that will impress your guests every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Greek Marinated Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, making it easy for quick lunches or dinner the next day.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, you can freeze cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftover chicken gently in a pan over medium heat or in the oven to avoid drying it out. Adding a splash of water or broth while reheating can help retain moisture, making each bite just as delectable as when freshly cooked.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully with this Greek Marinated Chicken Recipe. They tend to be more forgiving and juicy, plus their slightly richer flavor complements the marinade beautifully.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinating for at least 30 minutes will impart good flavor, but for best results, marinate for 2 to 4 hours. You can even leave it overnight for a deeper, more intense taste without any issues.
Is Greek yogurt essential in the marinade?
Yes, Greek yogurt is a key ingredient here as it tenderizes the chicken and adds creamy tang. You could substitute with regular yogurt in a pinch, but Greek yogurt’s thickness ensures the marinade clings perfectly to the chicken.
Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?
Definitely! Grilling the marinated chicken adds a wonderful smoky char that pairs perfectly with the citrus and herbs. Just cook over medium-high heat, flipping until cooked through.
What can I serve with this dish for a lighter option?
Pair this chicken with a light cucumber and tomato salad or steamed green beans tossed with lemon and olive oil. Fresh vegetables balance the richness of the chicken and keep the meal bright and healthy.
Final Thoughts
This Greek Marinated Chicken Recipe has truly become one of my favorite go-to dishes because it’s so versatile, bursting with flavor, and surprisingly simple to prepare. If you want to bring a little sunshine and zest to your table, I can’t recommend giving this recipe a try enough. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that makes every meal feel like a special occasion!
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Greek Marinated Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop and Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A flavorful and tender Greek marinated chicken recipe featuring a zesty marinade of Greek yogurt, lemon, garlic, and classic Mediterranean herbs. Perfectly seared on the stovetop and finished in the oven for juicy, aromatic chicken breasts.
Ingredients
Marinade Ingredients
- 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 coriander
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Main Ingredient
- 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.
- 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 flavors to infuse.
- Bring chicken to room temperature: About 30 minutes before cooking, remove the chicken from the refrigerator so it can come to room temperature for even cooking.
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Lightly oil a grill pan and heat it over medium-high heat on the stovetop until hot.
- Sear the chicken: Place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill pan and sear on one side for 5 minutes to develop a nice crust. Flip the chicken breasts over.
- Bake to finish cooking: Transfer the grill pan (with the chicken) to the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, indicating the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.
- Rest and serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Notes
- Marinating for longer enhances flavor and tenderness—up to 24 hours is best.
- Bringing chicken to room temperature before cooking promotes even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked safely to 165°F.
- For added smoky flavor, consider finishing the chicken on a grill instead of the oven.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
