Authentic Greek Chicken Marinade Recipe for Juicy Grilled Chicken

Quick and easy Greek chicken marinade that takes about 10 minutes to prepare and uses simple ingredients. This versatile marinade delivers excellent results for baked or grilled chicken.

This recipe has been shared in my family for generations and is a go-to for grilling season.

My aunt says it’s her favorite marinade for gyros — and her gyros are amazing. Over the years I’ve tested several variations and this version produces the best Greek chicken in my opinion.

We skip red wine vinegar and any alcohol in our family recipes, so this marinade is alcohol-free. I also prefer this to yogurt-based marinades, which can be overly tangy for some tastes.

Tips for a healthy Greek chicken marinade

• Marinating longer intensifies flavor; a short marinate yields a milder taste.
• Use the same marinade for souvlaki by cutting chicken into 1-inch cubes and threading onto soaked wooden skewers.
• This marinade works well for both grilling and baking.
• Avoid overcooking to prevent dry chicken.
• To make Greek-style chicken and potatoes, marinate baby potatoes or small potato cubes for 20 minutes, then bake or cook on the stovetop.
• Combine parboiled potatoes, green peppers, and onions for hearty kebabs or kabobs.
• Use the best olive oil you can find to enhance the flavor.
• Fresh herbs can replace dried herbs if available.
• Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
• For a mild heat, add ½ teaspoon paprika or red chili flakes.

What you can use this Greek marinade for

• Beef
• Pork
• Lamb chops
• Chicken (wings, breast, thighs)
• Kabobs and skewers

Ways to use leftover grilled Greek chicken

• Greek chicken pita sandwiches with your favorite bread or pita, tzatziki or other condiments, lettuce, thinly sliced tomatoes, onions and cucumbers.
• Greek chicken pasta or salad — cut chicken into strips or cubes and toss into pasta salad or a green salad.
• Greek chicken burgers — use shredded or sliced chicken on toasted, buttered buns with lettuce, tomato, onions, cucumbers and tzatziki.
• Serve with rice pilaf or buttered rice for a simple Greek chicken and rice meal.

How to make the Greek chicken marinade

Combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, dried oregano, rosemary, thyme, parsley, salt and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour and up to 8 hours. Grill or bake until cooked through, then serve.

How to bake Greek chicken in the oven

Place marinated chicken breasts in a baking dish and bake at 450°F (232°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until no pink remains and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.

What pairs well with Greek chicken?

• Pita bread
• Fresh salad
• Tzatziki sauce
• Rice pilaf

Here is the complete recipe and details:

Recipe

Until next time, tata my lovelies!