Go Back

Juicy Greek Chicken

Greek chicken with lemon, oregano, and garlic—tender and juicy after marinating, then grilled to 165°F. Mediterranean flavors are infused through a simple olive oil and citrus marinade for bold, savory results.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Marinating 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 Use bone-in or boneless pieces; aim for even thickness for consistent cooking.
Greek marinade
  • 0.3333333333 cup olive oil
  • 0.25 cup lemon juice
  • 2 lemons Zest the lemons and use the juice for the marinade.
  • 4 garlic Minced.
  • 2 tbsp fresh oregano If using dried oregano, use half the amount.
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 0.25 tsp salt To taste (start small and adjust).
  • 0.25 tsp pepper To taste (freshly ground if possible).

Equipment

  • 1 grill

Method
 

Make the marinade
  1. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, fresh oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper until evenly combined and fragrant.
  2. Taste the marinade and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
Marinate
  1. Place chicken pieces in a sealable container, pour in the marinade, and toss to coat thoroughly.
  2. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for 4-24 hours, turning the chicken halfway if possible.
Grill the chicken
  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400–450°F) and lightly oil the grates.
  2. Grill chicken pieces until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, flipping as needed for even browning.
  3. Let the grilled chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to help juices redistribute.

Notes

For the juiciest results, use an instant-read thermometer and remove the chicken as soon as it hits 165°F. Refrigerate leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container for 3-4 days; freeze cooked chicken up to 2-3 months. For a lower-oil option, reduce olive oil to 2 tbsp while keeping lemon juice and seasonings the same (flavor will be slightly less rounded but still good).