Description
This Greek Chicken Marinade recipe delivers tender, flavorful grilled chicken breasts infused with a bright and aromatic blend of lemon, garlic, oregano, and olive oil, accented by creamy Greek yogurt and a touch of honey for balance. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal with Mediterranean flair.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 lbs Chicken Breast (about 4 breasts)
Marinade
- 1/2 cup Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
- 3 Tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice (from 2 lemons)
- 5 Garlic Cloves (finely minced)
- 1 Tablespoon Dried Oregano
- 2 teaspoons Salt
- 1 teaspoon Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Honey (optional)
- 1/4 cup Greek Yogurt
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, stir together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. If you are using Greek yogurt and honey, add them into the bowl and whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Pierce the chicken breasts all over with a fork to help absorb the marinade. Place the chicken in a large resealable Ziploc bag or container. Pour the marinade over the chicken, seal the bag, and ensure all pieces are coated. Refrigerate and marinate for at least 60 minutes; ideally, leave it for 4 to 5 hours for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Preheat and Prepare the Grill: Heat your grill to medium heat. Before placing the chicken on the grill, brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill. Cook for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side depending on thickness, flipping once. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure safe consumption.
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting period helps retain the juices inside the chicken. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil if desired, then slice and serve immediately to enjoy the moist, flavorful meat.
Notes
- Marinate chicken for at least 1 hour, but 4-5 hours yields best flavor and tenderness.
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee perfectly cooked chicken at 165°F internal temperature.
- You can omit honey and Greek yogurt for a dairy-free and less sweet version.
- Brush grill grates with oil before cooking to prevent sticking.
- Allow chicken to rest after grilling to keep it juicy.
