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Delilah Cooks

Greek Chicken Marinade Recipe

Greek Chicken Marinade Recipe is an easy way to make juicy, tender, and flavorful chicken at home. This Recipe uses fresh lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and simple herbs to create a delicious Mediterranean-inspired meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Greek
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds boneless chicken breasts or thighs
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
    Prepare the Marinade
    1. Add olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, thyme, parsley, paprika, mustard, honey, salt, and pepper into a large bowl. Whisk until the mixture becomes smooth and well blended.
    Prepare the Chicken
    1. Trim any extra fat from the chicken. Pat it dry using paper towels. Place the chicken inside a large zip-top bag or shallow container for marinating.
    Marinate the Chicken
    1. Pour the marinade over the chicken. Turn each piece until fully coated. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least two hours for the best flavor.
    Bring to Room Temperature
    1. Remove the chicken from the refrigerator about twenty minutes before cooking. This helps it cook more evenly and stay tender during grilling or baking.
    Grill the Chicken
    1. Heat the grill to medium-high heat. Cook each side for about six to eight minutes until golden brown and the inside reaches a safe temperature.
    Bake the Chicken
    1. If baking, place the chicken on a lined baking tray. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about twenty minutes until fully cooked and juicy.
    Let the Chicken Rest
    1. Transfer the cooked chicken to a clean plate. Let it rest for five minutes before slicing. This keeps the juices inside the meat for better flavor.
    Serve and Enjoy
    1. Slice the chicken and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Serve immediately with your favorite Greek side dishes for a complete homemade meal.

    Notes

    • Use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled juice.
    • Marinate for at least two hours.
    • Overnight marinating gives deeper flavor.
    • Do not overcook the chicken.
    • Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
    • Let the chicken rest before slicing.
    • Fresh herbs add extra flavor.
    • Brush with olive oil before grilling if needed.