This Greek Grilled Chicken Recipe is a simple yet flavor-packed way to transform ordinary chicken into a juicy, tangy, and herb-infused masterpiece. With the perfect balance of fresh lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and aromatic herbs, this easy marinade brings out the best in your chicken whether you grill, bake, or pan-sear it. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or summertime cookouts, it’s a fresh and healthy recipe that never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright, fresh flavors: Lemon, garlic, and herbs combine for a light yet bold taste that pairs perfectly with any side dish.

• Versatile and easy: Works with chicken breasts, thighs, or even seafood and veggies.

• Healthy and clean: Made with wholesome ingredients and heart-healthy olive oil.

• Meal-prep friendly: Marinate ahead for quick weeknight cooking.

• Restaurant-quality results at home: Juicy, tender chicken every time with minimal effort.

Greek Grilled Chicken

If you’re looking for a simple way to add restaurant-quality flavor to your chicken without spending hours in the kitchen, this Greek Grilled Chicken is your new go-to. Made with a short list of everyday ingredients — fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, and herbs — this marinade infuses chicken with bright citrus notes, earthy herbs, and savory depth that tastes like it came straight from a Mediterranean bistro.

The magic of this marinade lies in its balance: lemon juice tenderizes the chicken while adding tangy freshness, olive oil locks in moisture, and garlic enhances every savory bite. A touch of red wine vinegar deepens the flavor profile, while thyme, rosemary, and oregano bring that classic herby aroma that turns a simple dish into something special. Whether you’re grilling outdoors, baking in the oven, or searing on the stovetop, this recipe ensures that your chicken turns out juicy, flavorful, and perfectly golden every time.

This recipe is also a dream for busy cooks — you can prep it in minutes, marinate your chicken ahead, and have a healthy, protein-rich meal ready to go. It’s versatile enough to pair with roasted vegetables, salads, pasta, or rice. And the flavor only gets better as it marinates!

If you love Mediterranean-inspired meals that are light, fresh, and bursting with natural flavor, this Greek Grilled Chicken will become a staple in your kitchen.

Servings & Time

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Marinating Time: 30 minutes to 8 hours

• Cook Time: 15–20 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes to 8 hours (including marination)

Ingredients

• 1 1/4 – 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon fresh chopped rosemary

• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

• 1 tablespoon minced garlic

• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (not bottled!)

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

Instructions

1. Prepare the marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, rosemary, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

2. Marinate the chicken: Place chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s fully coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.

3. Cook the chicken:

   • Grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and cook chicken for 6–8 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

   • Bake: Place the chicken in a baking dish and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes.

   • Pan-sear: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through.

4. Rest and serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor — bottled juice can taste bitter.

• Don’t over-marinate — lemon juice is acidic and can start to break down the chicken if left too long.

• Pound chicken breasts to even thickness for uniform cooking.

• Save leftover marinade (if not used on raw chicken) as a dressing or drizzle for cooked chicken or veggies.

• Pair it with: Greek salad, roasted potatoes, or quinoa for a wholesome meal.