Greek Chicken Marinade

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Last Updated on November 22, 2024 by Toya

See how to make the best Greek chicken marinade with simple, easy-to-find kitchen staples like olive oil, white wine vinegar, lime juice, garlic and herbs and spices.

This easy marinade recipe can be made in minutes and adds the best Mediterranean flavors to your chicken. The best part is this marinade can be used to for all cuts of chicken including thighs, wings, breasts and more!

So, if you’re looking to infuse your chicken with bright, zesty flavors, this Greek Chicken Marinade is the perfect chicken marinade to use!

And, the chicken marinated with this homemade marinade is perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-searing!

Why You’ll Love This Greek Marinade:

• It’s Made With Simple Ingredients: You don’t need to hunt down fancy ingredients to make this marinade. Just a few common pantry staples like olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and herbs create an unforgettable flavor.
• The Use Fresh Herbs: The mix of fresh rosemary and parsley gives the chicken a fresh, vibrant flavor that pairs beautifully with the richness of the olive oil.
• Versatile: Whether you’re grilling, baking, or pan-searing, this marinade works for any cooking method you prefer.
• Uber Flavorful Chicken: This Greek-inspired marinade is the perfect balance of citrus, herbs, and spices.

Interested in giving it a try? Let’s check out the recipe below!

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• Juice and zest of 1 lime
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• 2 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 pound of chicken pieces (I used boneless, skinless chicken breasts)

How To Make Greek Chicken Marinade

1. To start gather all of the ingredients in one place. Then, in a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, minced garlic, lime juice, and lime zest.
2. Next, stir in the oregano, rosemary, parsley, salt, and black pepper. The dried oregano gives a classic Greek flavor, while the fresh rosemary and parsley add aromatic, herbal notes. The salt and pepper bring everything together perfectly.
3. Once done, pour the marinade over your chicken pieces in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Make sure the chicken is well-coated with the marinade by massaging it into the meat. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, for the best flavor.

Cooking Options:

• Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the marinated chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the chicken.
• Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 20-30 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked.
• Pan-Searing: Heat a skillet over medium heat, then cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.

Some Easy Variation Ideas

Here are a few variations you can try for the Greek Chicken Marinade. Each variation gives the marinade a unique twist while keeping the Mediterranean essence intact.

Greek Yogurt Marinade

For a creamy, tenderizing marinade that adds richness: Add 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt to the marinade.

The yogurt adds a rich, creamy texture and enhances the marinade’s ability to tenderize the chicken. The result is juicy, flavorful chicken with a slightly tangy base.

Smoky Paprika and Cumin Greek Chicken Marinade

For a smoky, earthy variation with a Middle Eastern twist: Add 1 tsp smoked paprika and 1 tsp ground cumin to the marinade.

The smoked paprika gives the chicken a subtle smokiness, while cumin adds a warm, earthy flavor. This version is perfect if you enjoy a deeper, spicier Mediterranean flavor.

Herb-Heavy Greek Chicken Marinade

For an even more herb-forward flavor with a burst of freshness: Increase the fresh rosemary to 1 tbsp (finely chopped). Also, add 2 tbsp fresh thyme and 2 tbsp fresh basil (chopped). You can also add 1 tsp dried oregano if you want even more of an herbaceous flavor.

This variation is all about the fresh herbs, which create a fragrant, herbal-infused chicken that’s perfect for grilling.

Spicy Greek Chicken Marinade

For a bit of heat and a bolder flavor: Add 1-2 tsp of chili flakes (adjust the spice level based on your own preference). Also, add in 1 tsp smoked paprika for extra depth and smokiness.

This version brings a spicy, bold flavor with layers of heat, making it perfect for those who like a little fire in their food.

This easy Greek chicken marinade and its variations are your secret weapon for delicious, Mediterranean-inspired meals that are easy to prepare yet packed with flavor. This is the perfect marinade to use if you’re hosting a summer BBQ or cooking dinner for the family!