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The Best Greek Chicken Marinade

The Best Greek Chicken Marinade
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This Greek chicken marinade brings together fresh lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and olive oil to create a tender, juicy, and flavor-packed chicken dish inspired by Mediterranean traditions. Perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-searing, this marinade infuses chicken with tangy, herbaceous, and savory notes that make every bite deliciously memorable.

Ingredients

Scale

Marinade Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red wine vinegar until fully combined and aromatic. If using, stir in Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place your chicken pieces into a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure each piece is thoroughly coated by massaging the marinade in gently. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow flavors to deeply penetrate.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess, and cook your chosen cut by grilling, baking at 400°F (200°C), or pan-searing on medium-high heat until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the surface is beautifully caramelized.
  4. Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to let juices redistribute, guaranteeing juicy, tender results with every bite.

Notes

  • Marinate longer: Allow at least 4 hours or overnight for the most flavorful and tender chicken.
  • Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and garlic enhance brightness and aroma.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook chicken in batches if needed to ensure even cooking and golden browning.
  • Reserve some marinade: Keep a small amount aside before marinating to use as a fresh sauce or drizzle after cooking.
  • Measure ingredients precisely: Balance acidity and oil to avoid drying out meat or overwhelming flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Greek chicken marinade, Mediterranean chicken, lemon garlic chicken, oregano marinade, tender chicken recipe

Find it online: https://linacorner.com/the-best-greek-chicken-marinade/