There’s nothing quite like the aroma of grilled chicken wafting through the air, especially when it’s kissed by the bright notes of lemon and the richness of olive oil. I first discovered this recipe while trying to revamp our weeknight dinners, and let me tell you, it was a revelation! The marinated chicken comes out incredibly tender and juicy, infused with garlic and fresh parsley that create a stunning flavor explosion. It’s so quick to prepare that even on the busiest evenings, I can whip it up without breaking a sweat.
What I love most about this Lemon and Olive Oil Chicken Breast recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re serving it alongside a vibrant salad or on a bed of fluffy quinoa, this dish adds a fresh twist to any meal. Plus, it’s gluten-free and loaded with healthy goodness, making it a win for everyone at the dinner table. Get ready to elevate your cooking game with this easy and scrumptious recipe that promises to impress!
Why will you adore this Greek Grilled Chicken Breasts?
Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe requires minimal prep and just a few ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The zesty lemon, rich olive oil, and aromatic garlic meld beautifully, resulting in a savory dish that will delight your taste buds.
Versatile Pairings: Serve with salads, grains, or roasted veggies for a complete meal that suits any palate.
Quick Cooking: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s ideal for those evenings when time is tight but flavor is not compromised.
Healthy Indulgence: Packed with protein and healthy fats, it’s a nutritious choice everyone will love!
Greek Grilled Chicken Breasts Ingredients
For the Marinade
• Lemon Juice – Adds acidity and brightness to marinate the chicken; freshly squeezed is best for maximum flavor.
• Olive Oil – Provides moisture and richness, keeping the chicken tender while infusing it with depth.
• Fresh Parsley – Brings a fresh, herbal note and vibrant color; substitute with cilantro or basil for a change.
• Garlic Clove – Enhances aroma and flavor; if you don’t have fresh, garlic powder works just fine.
• Dried Oregano – Offers an earthy, robust flavor for the marinade; Italian seasoning can easily replace it.
For the Chicken
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast Halves – The main protein; ensure pieces are of similar thickness for even cooking.
Enjoy creating these Greek Grilled Chicken Breasts, perfect for family dinners and gatherings!
How to Make Greek Grilled Chicken Breasts
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Prepare Marinade: In a spacious bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, chopped parsley, minced garlic, and dried oregano until well combined. This zesty mixture is the key to infusing flavor into your chicken!
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Marinate Chicken: Place the boneless skinless chicken breast halves in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a deeper flavor.
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Cook Chicken: Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off, and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Your goal is an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.
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Rest and Serve: After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture. Serve with your favorite sides like a fresh salad or vibrant veggies for a delightful meal.
Optional: Garnish with additional chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Greek Grilled Chicken Breasts
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps your Greek grilled chicken breasts fresh while retaining their delicious flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to preserve moisture. If reheating in a skillet, add a splash of broth or olive oil to maintain juiciness.
Room Temperature: Do not leave cooked chicken out for more than 2 hours at room temperature to avoid food safety risks. Enjoy the freshness while it lasts!
Make Ahead Options
These Greek Grilled Chicken Breasts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can make the marinade and marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Simply whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, garlic, and oregano, and then pour it over the chicken in a resealable bag; refrigerate to allow the flavors to infuse. To maintain quality, avoid marinading for more than 2 hours to prevent the chicken from becoming mushy. When you’re ready to cook, just remove the chicken from the marinade, grill it for about 6-7 minutes on each side, and you’ll have a wonderfully juicy, flavorful dish ready to serve with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Greek Grilled Chicken Breasts
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Even Thickness: Ensure chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness for uniform cooking, preventing dry spots and ensuring juiciness.
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Marinating Time: Avoid over-marinating; acidity from lemon juice can make the texture mushy. Stick to 30 minutes to 2 hours for optimal flavor.
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Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures your Greek grilled chicken breasts are perfectly cooked without cutting into them.
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Resting Period: Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and flavorful.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and real lemon juice for the marinade. Fresh ingredients elevate the flavor and make your dish stand out.
What to Serve with Greek Grilled Chicken Breasts?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing this zesty chicken with mouthwatering accompaniments that elevate every bite.
- Tzatziki Sauce: Creamy and refreshing, this yogurt-based sauce complements the flavors of the chicken beautifully, adding a cool contrast.
- Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: Packed with veggies and a lemony dressing, this dish adds a hearty, nutritious element that balances the meal perfectly.
- Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and tender inside, these seasoned potatoes bring a comforting crunch that pairs wonderfully with the chicken.
- Grilled Vegetables: Smoky and tender, a medley of zucchini, bell peppers, and onions enhances the summer vibes while adding color to your plate.
- Pita Bread: Soft and pillowy, freshly baked pita is great for scooping up chicken and tzatziki, making every bite an enjoyable experience.
- Greek Lemonade: Refreshing and tangy, this drink complements the zesty notes of your chicken while keeping you cool on warm evenings.
With these delightful pairings, you’re set to create a memorable meal that’s bursting with flavor and joy!
Greek Grilled Chicken Breasts Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own, adding flavors and textures that excite your palate!
- Citrus Twist: Substitute lemon juice with lime juice for a vibrant, zesty flavor. This swap brings a fresh twist that enhances the chicken wonderfully.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like fresh thyme or rosemary instead of parsley, adding unique aromatic notes to the marinade.
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the marinade for a fiery surprise in every bite. Each grilled piece becomes an adventure for your taste buds!
- Honey Sweetness: Drizzle a tablespoon of honey into the marinade for a hint of sweetness that balances the tanginess of the lemon. This creates a delightful flavor contrast that everyone will love.
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika into the marinade for a rich, smoky undertone. It adds depth and a subtle warmth, transforming the dish into a comforting favorite.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for cubes of firm tofu or marinated portobello mushrooms, creating a plant-based version that’s equally delectable. Marinate them the same way for a flavorful vegetarian delight!
- Nutty Texture: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds over the finished dish for an added crunch and a nutty richness that complements the succulent chicken beautifully.
- Mediterranean Flair: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or feta cheese as a topping when serving to give a delightful Mediterranean flair that will impress your dinner guests!
Greek Grilled Chicken Breasts Recipe FAQs
What type of lemons should I use for the marinade?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using fresh, juicy lemons. Look for lemons that are bright yellow and feel heavy for their size, indicating they are full of juice. Avoid lemons that have dark spots or are soft as they might not be as flavorful.
How long can I store leftover Greek grilled chicken breasts?
Once cooked, store your Greek grilled chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let them cool before sealing to maintain freshness. Reheat gently to enjoy that juicy flavor again!
Can I freeze Greek grilled chicken breasts?
Very! To freeze your Greek grilled chicken breasts, first, allow them to cool completely. Then, place the chicken in freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What should I do if the chicken breasts are uneven in thickness?
No worries! If you encounter chicken breasts of varying thickness, simply use a meat mallet to pound them to an even thickness. This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly, preventing some parts from drying out while others may remain undercooked. Aim for about ¾ inch thickness for best results.
Are there any allergy concerns with this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is gluten-free and can easily accommodate various dietary preferences. However, if you have allergies to garlic or olives, you might want to substitute garlic powder for garlic and use a different type of oil like avocado or sunflower oil. Always double-check ingredient labels when purchasing to avoid cross-contamination, especially if you’re cooking for someone with allergies.
How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?
To confirm your Greek grilled chicken breasts are perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should be 165°F (75°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken for an accurate reading without cutting into it. Don’t skip this step; it’s the best way to ensure tenderness while avoiding dryness!
Mouthwatering Greek Grilled Chicken Breasts in Just 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a spacious bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, chopped parsley, minced garlic, and dried oregano until well combined.
- Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serve with your favorite sides.