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Juicy Greek Chicken

Juicy Greek chicken marinated in olive oil, lemon, garlic, and oregano for tender, flavorful results. Grill until the center reaches 165°F, then rest briefly for juicy chicken with classic Mediterranean flavor.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Marinating (4 hours) 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Greek
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken pieces
  • 2.5 lb chicken pieces
Greek marinade
  • 0.3333 cup olive oil
  • 0.25 cup lemon juice
  • 2 lemons (zest) Use the zest of 2 lemons.
  • 4 garlic cloves (minced) Minced garlic cloves.
  • 2 tbsp fresh oregano (or dried oregano) Use 2 tbsp fresh oregano, or 1 tbsp dried oregano.
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 salt Salt and pepper to taste.
  • 1 black pepper Salt and pepper to taste.

Equipment

  • 1 grill

Method
 

Make the Greek marinade
  1. Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper in a bowl until well combined, glossy, and evenly fragrant.
Marinate the chicken
  1. Place chicken pieces in a container and pour the marinade over them, turning to coat; cover and marinate for 4-24 hours in the refrigerator.
  2. Allow the marinated chicken to sit at refrigerator temperature while it marinates; keep covered so the surface stays moist and seasoned.
Grill
  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, then grill the chicken until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, flipping as needed for even browning and visible grill marks.
  2. Once the chicken hits 165°F, transfer it off the heat so the juices stay trapped and the exterior doesn’t overcook.
Rest and serve
  1. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep it juicy and tender.

Notes

Pro tip: for best juiciness, don’t rush the marinade—4 hours is great, and up to 24 hours deepens the lemon-oregano flavor without drying the meat. Refrigerate leftovers up to 3-4 days; freeze cooked chicken up to 2 months. Dietary swap: use skinless chicken thighs for a richer, more forgiving texture while keeping it Greek-lemony and still relatively healthy.