Hello friends, Chef André here!
If you’re looking for an easy way to turn simple chicken into something bold and unforgettable, this Greek Chicken Marinade is exactly what you need.
Packed with fresh lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and classic Mediterranean herbs, this marinade infuses chicken with bright, savory flavor in very little time. Whether you grill it, bake it, or cook it in a skillet, the result is always juicy, aromatic, and incredibly satisfying.
What I love most about this Greek Chicken Marinade Recipe is its versatility. It works beautifully for busy weeknight dinners, weekend grilling, or even meal prep for the week ahead. Simple ingredients, timeless flavors, and guaranteed success.
Why This Greek Chicken Marinade Works So Well
This marinade is a favorite because it’s:
- Ready in just 25 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Naturally gluten-free and paleo-friendly
- Fresh, zesty, and herb-forward
- Perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-searing
- Great for family meals and gatherings
A simple marinade that delivers big flavor.
Ingredients for Greek Chicken Marinade
Marinade Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- ¼ cup olive oil
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ins
- Fresh rosemary or parsley
- Extra lemon slices for serving
Smart Substitutions by Chef André
- Chicken thighs for extra juiciness
- Lime juice instead of lemon for a twist
- Fresh herbs instead of dried when available
- Add Dijon mustard for extra depth
Step-by-Step Preparation – Chef André Guides You
1. Make the Marinade
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Mix until well combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken
Add chicken to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 12 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
3. Cook the Chicken (Your Way)
Grill:
Grill over medium-high heat for 5–6 minutes per side, until cooked through.
Bake:
Bake at 400°F (205°C) for 20–25 minutes.
Skillet:
Pan-sear over medium heat for 6–7 minutes per side.
Let rest briefly before serving.
Creative Variations by Chef André
Make this Greek Chicken Marinade your own:
🍋 Extra Lemon Herb
Add more lemon zest and fresh parsley.
🌶 Mild Heat
Add a pinch of chili flakes.
🥗 Bowl-Style Meal
Serve sliced chicken over rice, salad, or quinoa.
🌮 Mediterranean Wraps
Slice and serve in flatbread with veggies and sauce.
Chef’s Tips for Juicy Greek Chicken
- Don’t over-marinate (acid can toughen meat)
- Pat chicken dry before cooking for better browning
- Let chicken rest after cooking
- Use a thermometer for perfect doneness
Small steps, perfect results.
What to Serve with Greek Chicken
This chicken pairs beautifully with:
- Roasted vegetables
- Greek-style salad
- Rice or potatoes
- Grilled zucchini or peppers
Ideal for healthy, balanced meals.
Storage & Meal Prep
- Refrigerator: Store cooked chicken up to 4 days
- Freezer: Freeze marinated raw chicken up to 2 months
- Reheat: Gently in skillet or oven
FAQ – Greek Chicken Marinade
Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, just increase cooking time.
Is this marinade strong?
It’s bright and herby, not overpowering.
Can I use this on vegetables?
Absolutely—it’s great for zucchini or mushrooms.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! Fresh and mild flavors.
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~310 kcal
- Protein: 35 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
(Values vary by cut of chicken.)
Conclusion – Chef André’s Mediterranean Must-Have 🌿🍗
This Greek Chicken Marinade proves that you don’t need complicated ingredients to create a memorable dinner. Fresh, healthy, and packed with classic Mediterranean flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again.
If you try it, leave a comment, rate the recipe, and tell me how you cooked your chicken!
For safe handling and storage of poultry, I always recommend USDA Food Safety:
👉 https://www.usda.gov/food-safety
Happy cooking,
Chef André 👨🍳