Description
Lemon Garlic Greek Marinated Chicken is a vibrant Mediterranean-inspired recipe made with fresh lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and herbs. This juicy and flavorful chicken is high in protein and perfect for healthy dinners, meal prep, or serving with Greek salad, pita, and tzatziki.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for cooking
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar optional
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard optional
- 1 tablespoon honey optional
- Fresh parsley chopped for garnish
- Lemon slices for garnish
- Crumbled feta cheese optional
Instructions
1. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Add red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey if using.
2. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to help the marinade stick and ensure even cooking.
3. Place the chicken in a bowl or resealable bag and pour the marinade over it. Toss to coat all pieces evenly.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or ideally 2 to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
5. Heat a grill pan, outdoor grill, or large skillet over medium high heat and add olive oil if using a pan.
6. Remove chicken from marinade and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked.
7. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165ยฐF or 75ยฐC.
8. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes.
9. Slice the chicken or serve whole and garnish with parsley and fresh lemon slices.
10. Serve with Greek salad, roasted potatoes, rice, quinoa, or warm pita with tzatziki.
Notes
- Marinate longer for stronger flavor.
- Chicken thighs remain juicier than chicken breasts.
- Use fresh lemon juice for best Mediterranean flavor.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Great for meal prep, salads, wraps, or grain bowls.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling or Pan Cooking
- Cuisine: Greek Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 85mg