I’m a huge fan of bright, herb-infused marinades that transform simple ingredients into something truly memorable, and this Lemon & Garlic Greek Marinated Chicken does just that. It’s like capturing a little slice of the Mediterranean right in your own backyard. Tender chicken breasts soak up a vibrant blend of freshly squeezed lemon juice, zesty lemon peel, fragrant garlic, and warm Greek herbs—dried oregano and thyme meld with olive oil to create an irresistible coating that locks in juices and flavor. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner after work or a casual weekend feast with friends, this dish elevates any meal into a celebration of bold, sun-soaked flavors.
I still remember the first time I tried something like this at a family gathering: the sizzle on the grill, the bright citrusy steam rising up, and that first bite of perfectly charred chicken bursting with tangy goodness. It felt easy, yet impressively gourmet—ideal for beginner cooks and seasoned grill masters alike. With just a handful of pantry staples and about 2 hours and 10 minutes of total preparation and marinating time (plus 14 minutes on the grill and a quick 5-minute rest), you’ll have a healthy dinner ready in a flash. At only 325 calories per serving, you can enjoy generous portions without guilt. This recipe is tagged as a beginner-friendly dinner or lunch option, and it’s packed with those classic Mediterranean vibes we all crave. So grab your apron, fire up your grill or pan, and let’s let these zesty, garlicky flavors do all the talking!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN LEMON & GARLIC GREEK MARINATED CHICKEN
Before we dive into the step-by-step process, let’s take a moment to appreciate the simple yet powerful cast of characters in this recipe. Each ingredient brings its own unique flair and purpose, teaming up to ensure your chicken is as juicy and flavorful as possible.
- Chicken Breasts
Lean and versatile, boneless skinless chicken breasts absorb flavors wonderfully and cook up tender and moist when treated right.
- Olive Oil
A staple of Mediterranean cooking, it helps the marinade cling to the chicken and promotes even cooking while adding its fruity richness.
- Lemon Juice
Freshly squeezed for maximum zing, it tenderizes the meat with its acidity and imparts a bright, citrusy tang.
- Lemon Zest
The oils in the zest pack concentrated flavor, offering an extra punch of lemon aroma without adding more liquid.
- Garlic
Minced garlic infuses the entire dish with its warm, savory character and deep aromatic notes.
- Dried Oregano
Earthy and slightly peppery, oregano is a signature Greek herb that pairs perfectly with citrus and garlic.
- Dried Thyme
With its subtle minty undertone, thyme rounds out the herb profile and enhances the overall flavor complexity.
- Salt
Essential for drawing out moisture and intensifying flavors, it’s the unsung hero that brings everything together.
- Black Pepper
Freshly ground for best results, it adds a gentle heat and depth to the marinade.
- Red Pepper Flakes
Totally optional but highly recommended if you want a hint of spicy kick in every bite.
- Fresh Parsley
Chopped and sprinkled on top, parsley adds a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness as a garnish.
- Fresh Dill
Also optional, dill lends a slightly tangy, anise-like flavor that complements the lemon beautifully.
HOW TO MAKE LEMON & GARLIC GREEK MARINATED CHICKEN
Now that you know the all-star ingredients, let’s walk through how to bring this recipe to life. These instructions will guide you from mixing the marinade to serving up perfectly grilled, juicy chicken that everyone will rave about.
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk vigorously until the mixture emulsifies into a smooth, flavorful marinade.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Laying them flat ensures they all get beautifully coated.
3. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each breast is well-coated. Seal the bag tightly or cover the dish with plastic wrap to lock in freshness.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavor penetration, aim for 2 to 4 hours, and if you really want to up the ante, let it sit overnight—your patience will pay off.
5. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If you’re using a traditional grill, lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking and encourage those lovely grill marks.
6. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Discard the leftover marinade to avoid cross-contamination.
7. Grill the chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is perfectly cooked through.
8. Take the chicken off the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes on a cutting board. This brief pause helps the juices redistribute, keeping every slice tender.
9. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and dill if desired. Serve alongside your favorite Greek salad, warm pita, or colorful roasted veggies for a complete meal.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR LEMON & GARLIC GREEK MARINATED CHICKEN
Presenting this dish is almost as fun as making it! The bright flavors and gorgeous grill marks mean you’ll want to show it off. Here are four ideas to turn your chicken into a stunning plate that delights both the eyes and the palate:
- Build a Classic Greek Salad
Pile crisp romaine, juicy tomatoes, cucumber ribbons, red onion, kalamata olives, and crumbled feta on a platter. Lay sliced chicken on top and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and a squeeze of lemon for a refreshing, balanced plate.
- Warm Pita Sandwiches
Slice the chicken thinly and tuck it into toasted pita pockets with a dollop of tzatziki sauce, crunchy cucumber pickles, and fresh tomato slices for a handheld, street-food vibe.
- Roasted Vegetable Medley
Roast seasonal veggies—like bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion—with olive oil, salt, and pepper until tender and slightly caramelized. Serve the chicken atop this colorful bed for a healthy, hearty option.
- Mediterranean Grain Bowl
Layer quinoa or couscous in a bowl, add artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and a handful of baby spinach. Top with sliced chicken and a drizzle of lemon-herb vinaigrette for a nourishing bowl.
HOW TO STORE LEMON & GARLIC GREEK MARINATED CHICKEN
Whether you have leftovers or you’re prepping ahead, proper storage keeps this chicken tasting its best. Here are some tried-and-true methods to maintain freshness, moisture, and flavor:
- Refrigerator Storage
Place cooled chicken in an airtight container or resealable bag. Stored this way, it will stay juicy and delicious for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to avoid overcooking.
- Freezing Cooked Chicken
For longer storage, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and then foil, or use freezer-safe bags. Properly sealed, the chicken can stay at its best for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Marinated, Uncooked Chicken
If you want to prep in advance, marinate the chicken and store it in a sealed bag in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Beyond that, the acid in the marinade can begin to break down the meat too much.
- Reheating Tips
To maintain moisture, reheat slices in a covered dish with a splash of water or broth at low heat. This gentle method prevents the meat from drying out and preserves its juicy texture.
CONCLUSION
This Lemon & Garlic Greek Marinated Chicken brings together simple, wholesome ingredients and transforms them into a dish bursting with vibrant, sunny flavors. From the tang of fresh lemon juice and zest to the earthy warmth of oregano and thyme, every bite is a reminder of why Mediterranean-inspired meals are so beloved. Whether you’re feeding a family of four, hosting a backyard barbecue, or just craving something fresh and healthy, this recipe offers flexibility and ease without sacrificing flavor. With under 15 minutes of active cooking time and a straightforward prep process, you can have tender, flavorful chicken ready enough for beginners, but impressive enough for guests.
Feel free to print this article and tuck it into your recipe binder, or save it digitally for quick reference on busy weeknights. You’ll also find a handy FAQ section below to address any common questions about marinating times, grilling tips, or substitutions. If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop a comment, share your own twists, or ask any questions if you run into snags. Cooking is more fun when we learn and experiment together, so let me know what you think, and happy grilling!
Lemon & Garlic Greek Marinated Chicken
Description
Experience tender chicken breasts bathed in a vibrant lemon, garlic, and herb marinade that locks in juices as it grills to perfection. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual weekend feast!
Ingredients
Instructions
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In a medium-sized bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk until the ingredients are well mixed.
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Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.
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Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each breast is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap.
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Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, marinate for 2 to 4 hours. If you have time, overnight marination is ideal.
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Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If using a grill, lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
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Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Discard the leftover marinade.
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Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is fully cooked through.
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Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
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Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and dill if desired. Serve with your favorite sides, such as Greek salad, pita, or roasted vegetables.
Note
- Marinating the chicken for a few hours will make it extra flavorful.
- You can also bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes if grilling isn't an option.
- This marinade works wonderfully on other proteins like pork or lamb.
- Feel free to add a bit of feta cheese on top for an extra Greek touch.
- Serve with tzatziki sauce for a true Greek experience!
