Name: The BEST Greek Chicken Marinade Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 large breasts); ⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt; ¼ cup olive oil; 4 lemons (zest and juice); 4-5 cloves garlic, pressed or minced; 2 tablespoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Description

This vibrant Greek Chicken Marinade recipe infuses boneless, skinless chicken breasts with the bright flavors of lemon, garlic, and oregano, balanced by creamy Greek yogurt and rich olive oil. Perfect for grilling or baking, this marinade tenderizes the chicken while delivering an authentic Mediterranean taste for a wholesome and delicious meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 large breasts)

Marinade

⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt
¼ cup olive oil
4 lemons (zest and juice)
4-5 cloves garlic, pressed or minced
2 tablespoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

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Instructions

Prepare the marinade: In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, olive oil, zest and juice of the lemons, pressed garlic, dried oregano, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated, creating a smooth and flavorful marinade.
Marinate the chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2-4 hours, to allow the flavors to penetrate and tenderize the chicken.
Cook the chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Grill over medium-high heat for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through. Alternatively, bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the marinade.
Marinate longer for more tender chicken, but avoid exceeding 24 hours to prevent texture change from the yogurt.
If grilling, lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
Serve the chicken with a Greek salad or pita bread for a complete Mediterranean meal.
This marinade can also be used for chicken thighs or drumsticks; adjust cooking time accordingly.