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reek chicken marinade coating raw chicken breasts in glass bowl with lemon and herbs

Greek Chicken Marinade

A bright, flavorful marinade with lemon, garlic, and Mediterranean herbs that transforms simple chicken into restaurant-quality dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Marinating Time (minimum) 1 hour
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice about 2 lemons
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest from 1 lemon
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard optional, for emulsification
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or dill chopped, for garnish
  • 2 pounds chicken breasts, thighs, or drumsticks

Equipment

  • Medium-sized bowl
  • Whisk
  • Large resealable bag or shallow dish
  • Grill, oven, or skillet

Method
 

  1. Zest one lemon and juice both lemons to get about 1/4 cup juice. Peel and mince garlic cloves finely.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together lemon juice and Dijon mustard. Add lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined.
  3. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking continuously to create an emulsified marinade.
  4. Place chicken in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over chicken, making sure all pieces are coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, up to 24 hours for best flavor.
  5. Remove chicken from refrigerator 15 to 20 minutes before cooking. Remove from marinade and discard used marinade. Grill over medium-high heat for 6 to 8 minutes per side, bake at 400°F for 20 to 25 minutes, or pan-sear for 6 to 8 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh herbs.

Notes

For best results, marinate chicken for 4 to 6 hours. Do not exceed 24 hours. Raw chicken and marinade can be frozen together for up to 3 months. Cooked chicken keeps 3 to 4 days refrigerated. Marinating time is separate from the prep and cook times listed.