Greek Chicken Marinade Recipe

I love making Greek Chicken Marinade because it turns everyday chicken into something special. I combine olive oil, tangy lemon juice, minced garlic and dried oregano with a hint of salt and pepper. This version of Chicken Recipes For Grilling adds a lively zest I enjoy at every meal.

I first discovered this Greek Chicken Marinade recipe on a sunlit afternoon when all I had were a few fresh ingredients lying around. I love that its super simple and perfect for pan frying, baking or grilling.

I mix 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil with 1/4 cup lemon juice from about 2 lemons, throw in 4 garlic cloves minced, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Sometimes, if I’m in the mood for something extra, I add 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar.

I’ve found this blend works great whether I’m whipping up chicken for a hearty salad or planning a quick summer dinner for a crowd. Its flavors pop in a way that reminds me of my favorite gyro marinade recipes, and it definitely stands firm among the best chicken marinades i’ve ever made.

Give it a try its really something special!

Why I Like this Recipe

I really love this Greek Chicken Marinade for a bunch of reasons. First, I like how simple and fast it is to put together. I can usually find all the ingredients in my kitchen and it doesn’t take forever to mix everything up. Second, I love the flavor combo. The lemon juice and garlic give it a bright, tangy kick that makes the chicken taste amazing every time I cook it. Third, it’s super versatile. Whether I’m grilling, pan frying, or baking the chicken, it always comes out tender and juicy. Finally, I appreciate how forgiving the recipe is; even if I mess up the measurements a little bit, it still turns out really good.

Ingredients

• Extra virgin olive oil gives a rich, healthy fat punch that really boosts flavor.
• Lemon juice adds a tangy zing and vitamin C kick while tenderizing the meat.
• Garlic supplies a bold, slightly spicy note and may help your immune system.
• Dried oregano brings that classic Greek taste and a herby aroma you love.
• Salt helps round out flavors and seasons the chicken all throughout.
• Ground black pepper adds a little heat and enhances the dish overall.
• Red wine vinegar, if used, gives a sour contrast that balances the marinade.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup lemon juice (from about 2 lemons)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Optional: 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

How to Make this

1. In a bowl, mix together 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil, 1/4 cup lemon juice, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper and if you want, 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar.

2. Whisk all the ingredients till they’re well blended.

3. Put your chicken pieces in a large resealable bag or shallow dish.

4. Pour the marinade evenly over the chicken making sure every piece is coated.

5. Seal the bag or cover the dish and place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes – you can marinate it for a few hours or even overnight if you have time.

6. When you’re ready to cook, take the chicken out and let it come to room temperature for about 10 minutes.

7. Preheat your pan, grill, or oven to medium high heat.

8. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

9. Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for a few minutes to lock in all the juices.

10. Serve warm with your favourite sides and enjoy your deliciously marinated Greek chicken!

Equipment Needed

1. A medium to large bowl for mixing all the marinade ingredients.
2. Measuring cups and spoons for accurate portions of olive oil, lemon juice, and red wine vinegar.
3. A whisk to blend the ingredients thoroughly.
4. A knife and cutting board to mince the garlic.
5. A large resealable bag or a shallow dish to hold the chicken while marinating.
6. A refrigerator to properly marinate the chicken.
7. A pan, grill, or oven that can be preheated to medium high heat for cooking.
8. Tongs or a spatula to flip the chicken pieces during cooking.
9. (Optional) A meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F.

FAQ

Greek Chicken Marinade Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• If you dont have extra virgin olive oil try using avocado oil or even canola oil. It wont be exactly the same but it works.
• Lemon juice can be swapped with lime juice for a slightly different tangy flavor.
• If fresh garlic isn’t available, you can use garlic powder, using about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove.
• Dried oregano can be replaced with dried thyme or basil if you’re in a pinch and need a similar herbal kick.
• For red wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar make a good alternative.

Pro Tips

1. Try marinating the chicken overnight if you have the time, but dont leave it for too long because the acids in the lemon and vinegar might start breakin the meat down too much.
2. Always let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before cookin it; this helps it cook more evenly and prevents the outside from charring too quickly.
3. Make sure your grill or pan is really hot before you put the chicken on, so you can get that nice sear and lock in the juices.
4. Dont skip the restin period after cookin the chicken – giving it a few minutes off the heat means the juices settle back inside, makin it super moist.