Description
A refreshing Greek Chicken Marinade that infuses fresh flavors and zest into chicken dishes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (from about 2 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or dill (optional for garnish)
- 2 pounds chicken (breasts, thighs, drumsticks, or cubed pieces)
Instructions
- Zest one lemon using a microplane or fine grater.
- Juice both lemons to obtain about 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice.
- Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves.
- Measure out dried herbs and seasonings.
- In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, sea salt, ground black pepper, and Dijon mustard (if using).
- Whisk the mixture for 30 to 45 seconds until well combined.
- Place the chicken in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken and coat every piece.
- If using a bag, seal and gently massage the marinade into the chicken. If using a dish, turn the chicken to coat evenly and cover tightly.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours; aim for 4 to 6 hours for best results.
- Before cooking, let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes.
- Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess to drip off and discard the used marinade.
- Cook using your preferred method: grill for 5 to 7 minutes per side, bake at 400°F for 20 to 25 minutes, or pan-sear for 6 to 8 minutes per side.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F, then let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing or serving, garnishing with fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Notes
For best flavor, marinate the chicken for 4 to 6 hours, but do not exceed 24 hours to avoid a mushy texture.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Marinade
- Method: Marinating and Grilling/Baking/Pan-searing
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 530mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 21g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 70mg