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The Best Greek Chicken Marinade

The Best Greek Chicken Marinade

This Best Greek Chicken Marinade recipe infuses chicken with vibrant citrus, fresh herbs, and bold spices for juicy, tender results. Perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-searing, it uses simple pantry staples to deliver an authentic Mediterranean flavor that’s healthy, easy to prepare, and sure to impress family and friends.

Ingredients

Scale

Marinade Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup high-quality extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 12 lemons)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Finely mince the fresh garlic cloves and squeeze fresh lemon juice. Measure out the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, and thyme to have all components ready for mixing.
  2. Combine the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper until the mixture is well blended and emulsified.
  3. Marinate the Chicken: Place your chicken pieces in a zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Massage the marinade into the chicken thoroughly to ensure each piece is fully coated.
  4. Let It Rest: Cover and refrigerate the marinated chicken for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2 to 4 hours, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.
  5. Cook and Enjoy: Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook using your preferred method—grilling, baking, or pan-frying—until fully cooked and deliciously charred or caramelized. Serve immediately with your favorite garnishes and sides.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for brighter, fresher acidity.
  • Marinate chicken between 30 minutes and 4 hours to avoid mushy texture.
  • Pat chicken dry before cooking to achieve better searing and browning.
  • Skin-on chicken adds more flavor; boneless cooks faster and is easier to eat.
  • Sprinkle fresh parsley or oregano over cooked chicken for extra color and flavor.
  • Feel free to swap herbs (rosemary or dill for thyme) or add chili flakes for heat.
  • Use Greek yogurt in the marinade for creaminess and added tenderizing effect.
  • This marinade works well with pork, lamb, firm fish, tofu, or vegetables for vegan options.

Nutrition

Keywords: Greek chicken marinade, Mediterranean chicken, grilled chicken recipe, healthy chicken marinade, easy Greek recipe