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The Best Greek Chicken Marinade

The Best Greek Chicken Marinade

The Best Greek Chicken Marinade infuses tender chicken with fresh herbs, tangy lemon, and a balanced blend of spices for bright, zesty, and juicy results. Perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-frying, this marinade brings authentic Mediterranean flavors to your table with simple ingredients and easy preparation.

Ingredients

Scale

Marinade Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves (or substitute with fresh chopped mint)
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Chicken

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, fresh thyme leaves, red wine vinegar, honey, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is well blended and slightly emulsified.
  2. Choose Your Chicken: Select boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with paper towels to ensure the marinade adheres well.
  3. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is completely coated. Seal tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for optimal flavor and tenderness.
  4. Cook to Perfection: Cook the marinated chicken by grilling, baking, or pan-frying over medium-high heat. Typically cook for 6-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. Rest Before Serving: Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in moist and tender bites.

Notes

  • Marinate chicken overnight for the most tender and flavorful results.
  • Use fresh herbs generously for the brightest flavor.
  • Avoid overcrowding chicken pieces while marinating to ensure even coating.
  • Cook at medium-high heat to achieve a nice char without drying the chicken.
  • Always rest the cooked chicken for juicy, tender results.

Nutrition

Keywords: Greek chicken marinade, lemon chicken marinade, Mediterranean chicken, grilled chicken, healthy chicken marinade