Greek Marinated Chicken (Olive Oil, Lemon & Herb)
This marinade is bright, tangy, garlicky, and deeply flavorful.It tenderizes the chicken beautifully and gives that classic Greek souvlaki-style taste.
⏱ Time
Prep: 10 minutes
Marinate: 30 min–8 hours
Cook: 12–18 minutes
Total: 40 minutes
Ingredients
For the Greek Marinade
¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp lemon zest
3 garlic cloves, grated or minced
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp dried thyme (or rosemary)
½ tsp paprika (optional for color)
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
Optional: 1 tbsp Greek yogurt for extra tenderness
Chicken
2–3 chicken breasts (thin sliced)
OR
4 boneless chicken thighs
Instructions
1. Make the Marinade
1. In a bowl, whisk together:
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice + zest
- Garlic
- Oregano
- Thyme/rosemary
- Paprika (optional)
- Salt & pepper
2. Taste — adjust lemon or herbs as you like.
2. Marinate the Chicken
1. Place chicken in a bowl or zip bag.
2. Pour marinade over the chicken and massage it well.
3. Marinate:
Minimum: 30 minutes
Best: 2–4 hours
Maximum: 8 hours (lemon can start breaking down meat)
3. Cook the Chicken
Option A — Grill (best flavor!)
Grill on medium-high heat 5–6 minutes per side
Until deep golden and cooked through.
Option B — Pan Sear
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet.
Cook chicken 5–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
Option C — Bake
Bake at 220°C (425°F) for 18–22 minutes.
Broil 2 minutes for color.
Option D — Air Fry
Air fry at 200°C (390°F) for 14–16 minutes.
Serve With
Greek salad (tomato, cucumber, feta, olives)
Lemon orzo or rice
Tzatziki
Pita wraps / gyros
Roasted veggies
Quinoa bowls
Tips
Add Greek yogurt to marinade for extra juiciness.
For a stronger aroma: smash a fresh oregano sprig in the marinade.
Add 1–2 tbsp white wine vinegar for a more classic souvlaki taste.
Nutrition information
Calories: ~260
Protein: 32g
Fat: 13g
Carbs: ~2g
Carbohydrates:12g