Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This marinade is simple to make and uses wholesome ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. The combination of acid (lemon juice), fat (olive oil), and aromatics (garlic, oregano, and herbs) tenderizes the chicken beautifully while infusing it with bold Mediterranean taste. It’s versatile enough for use with any cut of chicken and ideal for salads, wraps, bowls, and more.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Olive oil

  • Fresh lemon juice

  • Garlic cloves, minced

  • Dried oregano

  • Dried thyme or fresh chopped herbs (optional)

  • Dijon mustard (optional, for added tang)

  • Salt

  • Black pepper

  • Chicken breasts, thighs, or drumsticks

Directions

  1. In a medium bowl or a large resealable bag, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and pepper.

  2. Whisk well to combine or seal the bag and shake gently.

  3. Add the chicken to the marinade and ensure it is fully coated.

  4. Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2–4 hours for best flavor.

  5. When ready to cook, remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the used marinade.

  6. Grill, bake, or pan-sear the chicken until fully cooked and golden brown.

  7. Rest the chicken for 5 minutes before slicing or serving.

Servings and timing

This marinade is enough for about 1.5 to 2 pounds of chicken, serving 4 people.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes to 4 hours
Cook Time: 15–25 minutes depending on cooking method
Total Time: Up to 4 hours 35 minutes

Variations

  • Herb Boost: Add fresh dill, rosemary, or parsley for extra herbal notes.

  • Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.

  • Yogurt-Based: Add plain Greek yogurt to the marinade for an even creamier texture and more tender result.

  • Citrus Twist: Mix in a bit of orange juice for a slightly sweeter citrus profile.

  • Vegan Option: Use this marinade with tofu or vegetables for a flavorful plant-based option.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
Unused marinade should be discarded after use with raw chicken. If you want to use it as a sauce, reserve some separately before adding the raw meat.

FAQs

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes, marinating overnight enhances the flavor, but avoid going beyond 24 hours to prevent the chicken from becoming mushy due to the lemon juice.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.

What’s the best cut of chicken to use?

This marinade works well with breasts, thighs, drumsticks, or even whole spatchcocked chicken.

Can I freeze marinated chicken?

Yes, you can freeze chicken in the marinade for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.

How long should I grill marinated chicken?

Grill boneless chicken breasts for about 6–7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Is this marinade good for meal prep?

Absolutely. Marinate and cook a batch at the start of the week to use in wraps, salads, or rice bowls.

Can I cook the marinade into a sauce?

Only if you reserve a portion before adding raw chicken. Never reuse marinade that’s touched raw meat without boiling it first.

Do I have to use Dijon mustard?

No, it’s optional, but it adds a tangy depth that complements the other flavors.

What side dishes pair well with this?

Greek salad, rice pilaf, roasted potatoes, or pita bread with tzatziki all go well with this chicken.

Can I bake this in the oven?

Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–25 minutes, depending on thickness, until the chicken is cooked through.

Conclusion

This Greek Chicken Marinade is your go-to for quick, flavorful meals with a Mediterranean flair. Simple, fresh, and incredibly versatile, it turns basic chicken into something special. Ideal for busy weeknights or outdoor grilling, it’s a recipe worth keeping on repeat.


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Greek Chicken Marinade

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This Greek Chicken Marinade is a zesty, herb-packed blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices that transforms chicken into a juicy, flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish. Perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-searing.

  • Author: Catherine
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15–25 minutes
  • Total Time: Up to 4 hours 35 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Marinate and Cook (Grill/Bake/Pan-Sear)
  • Cuisine: Greek
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme or 1 tsp fresh chopped herbs (optional)
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1.5 to 2 pounds chicken breasts, thighs, or drumsticks

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl or resealable bag, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and pepper.
  2. Whisk until well combined or seal the bag and shake gently.
  3. Add the chicken and ensure it is fully coated in the marinade.
  4. Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2–4 hours.
  5. When ready to cook, remove chicken from the marinade and discard the used marinade.
  6. Grill, bake, or pan-sear the chicken until fully cooked and golden brown (internal temp should reach 165°F/74°C).
  7. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing or serving.

Notes

For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours.Do not reuse marinade that has touched raw chicken unless it’s boiled first.Add red pepper flakes for a spicy twist or fresh herbs for more aroma.You can freeze chicken in the marinade for up to 3 months.Use fresh lemon juice for optimal flavor.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (about 6 oz cooked chicken)
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 1g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

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