Perfect Greek Chicken – Juicy and Full of Flavor
Greek chicken delivers authentic Mediterranean flavors with minimal effort. This versatile, juicy chicken is marinated in lemon, garlic, and herbs then perfectly cooked for a protein-packed meal ready in just 30 minutes.
Greek Chicken
Greek chicken is a Mediterranean-inspired dish that brings together bright lemon, aromatic herbs, and garlic to create tender, flavorful chicken that’s perfect for any night of the week. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity – a quick marinade elevates ordinary chicken into something extraordinary without requiring any complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.
What makes Greek chicken special is its perfect balance of flavors. The tanginess from fresh lemon juice, the earthiness of olive oil and dried herbs, and the punch of garlic create a harmonious blend that infuses every bite. Whether you’re serving it with a Greek salad, wrapping it in warm pita bread, or adding it to grain bowls, this versatile protein is guaranteed to be a hit with the entire family.
Unlike many restaurant versions that can be overly salty or dry, this homemade Greek chicken stays incredibly juicy and tender. The marinade not only adds flavor but also helps lock in moisture, resulting in perfectly cooked chicken every time. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and packed with protein, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
Greek Chicken Recipe Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (approximately 1 large lemon)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- Zest of 1 lemon
For the Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (parsley, oregano, or dill)
- Lemon slices for serving
Tools Used to Make Greek Chicken
- Large mixing bowl or zip-top bag for marinating
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Garlic press or sharp knife for mincing garlic
- Citrus juicer and zester
- Large skillet, grill pan, or outdoor grill
- Meat thermometer
- Tongs for flipping chicken
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Serving platter
How to Make Greek Chicken
- Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, honey (if using), red wine vinegar, and lemon zest until well combined.
- Marinate the chicken: Add chicken to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though 2-4 hours or overnight will yield even more flavorful results.
- Bring to room temperature: Remove the chicken from the refrigerator about 15-20 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature for more even cooking.
- Cook the chicken: Choose your preferred cooking method:
- Stovetop: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes per side (depending on thickness) until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Oven: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place chicken on a lined baking sheet and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest the chicken: Transfer cooked chicken to a cutting board and let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon slices before serving.
Serving Greek Chicken
Greek chicken is incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways to create a complete, satisfying meal. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:
- Traditional Mediterranean Plate: Serve with grilled focaccia, tzatziki sauce, a simple Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese.
- Greek Chicken Pita Wraps: Slice the chicken and stuff it into warm pita bread with tzatziki sauce, diced tomatoes, thinly sliced red onions, and fresh lettuce for a delicious handheld meal.
- Greek Chicken Bowls: Create a nutritious bowl with a base of fluffy rice or quinoa, topped with Greek chicken, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a drizzle of tzatziki or herb vinaigrette.
- Greek Chicken Pasta: Toss with pasta, cherry tomatoes, spinach, feta cheese, and a simple olive oil and lemon dressing for a quick weeknight dinner that’s sure to impress.
- Greek Chicken Salad: Add to a bed of crisp romaine lettuce with all the classic Greek salad fixings for a protein-packed, low-carb meal that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
For a complete Greek-inspired feast, consider serving with traditional sides like loaded tater tot cups (with a Greek twist using feta instead of cheddar), lemon roasted potatoes, or a refreshing cucumber salad.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I marinate Greek chicken?
While you can cook the chicken after just 30 minutes of marinating, for maximum flavor, aim for 2-4 hours or even overnight in the refrigerator. The longer marinating time allows the lemon juice and herbs to penetrate deeper into the meat, resulting in more flavorful chicken.
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces work wonderfully with this marinade. Keep in mind that cooking times will need to be adjusted – bone-in pieces typically take 10-15 minutes longer to cook depending on size. For best results, cook bone-in chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I make Greek chicken ahead of time?
Yes! Greek chicken is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the marinade and chicken up to 24 hours in advance, keeping it refrigerated until ready to cook. Alternatively, cook the chicken completely, cool it, and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently to prevent drying out.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover Greek chicken?
To keep the chicken juicy when reheating, add a splash of water or chicken broth to the pan and cover while heating on low-medium heat. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 325°F (165°C) in a covered dish with a tablespoon of water for about 15 minutes. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the chicken tough.
Is Greek chicken healthy?
Yes! Greek chicken is a nutritious choice that’s high in protein and features heart-healthy olive oil, antioxidant-rich lemon, and herbs with anti-inflammatory properties. When paired with vegetables and whole grains, it forms the foundation of a well-balanced Mediterranean-style meal, which is consistently ranked as one of the healthiest dietary patterns.
Final Thoughts
This Greek chicken recipe brings the sunny flavors of the Mediterranean straight to your dinner table with minimal effort. Try it tonight and share your culinary creations with us – we’d love to see your Greek-inspired meals!