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Greek Lemon Chicken Marinade Recipe

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  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
  • Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes (including marinating time)
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Greek
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This Greek Chicken recipe features juicy boneless skinless chicken breasts marinated in a vibrant blend of olive oil, lemon juice and zest, oregano, Greek seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and kosher salt. After marinating for at least 4 hours, the chicken is grilled to perfection, delivering a flavorful and tender dish that embodies classic Mediterranean flavors.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts

Marinade

  • ¾ cup olive oil
  • ¾ cup lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 Tbsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 2 Tbsp Greek seasoning
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • Black pepper to taste


Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, Greek seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  2. Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large gallon-sized Ziploc bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, seal the bag tightly, and refrigerate for 4 to 24 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
  3. Preheat the grill: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the leftover marinade. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring it is hot and oiled to prevent sticking.
  4. Grill the chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook, turning occasionally, until an internal temperature of 165ºF is reached, which usually takes about 6-8 minutes per side depending on thickness.
  5. Rest and serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and flavorful meal.

Notes

  • Marinating the chicken for at least 4 hours enhances flavor and tenderness; overnight marination is ideal.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked safely to 165ºF internal temperature.
  • Greek seasoning typically includes herbs like thyme, rosemary, and marjoram; adjust seasoning to taste if desired.
  • Can be served with a side of tzatziki sauce for an authentic Greek experience.
  • If a grill is not available, the chicken can be cooked on a stovetop grill pan or baked in the oven at 375ºF for 25-30 minutes.