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Greek Chicken Marinade

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3.9 from 16 reviews

This Mediterranean marinade guarantees tender, flavorful chicken. Rich olive oil, tangy lemon, and sharp balsamic beautifully infuse with fragrant oregano and garlic.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a medium bowl or liquid measuring cup, combine the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and red grape vinegar.
  2. Step 2: Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper to the liquid ingredients.
  3. Step 3: Whisk the mixture vigorously until the marinade is fully emulsified and all herbs and seasonings are thoroughly combined.
  4. Step 4: Place up to 2 pounds of chicken pieces (such as breasts, thighs, or skewers) in a large zip-top bag or a non-reactive shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all surfaces are coated.
  5. Step 5: Seal the bag (pressing out excess air) or cover the dish, and refrigerate the chicken for a minimum of 2 hours, and preferably up to 12 hours, before grilling, baking, or pan-frying.

Notes

  • If you make extra marinade before adding it to the chicken, store it tightly sealed in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, whisking again before pouring.
  • Reheat any leftover cooked chicken gently wrapped in foil at 300°F (150°C) to prevent drying out the delicious marinated edges.
  • For a bright, complete meal, plate the chicken alongside warm pita bread, a crunchy Greek salad, and a cooling smear of tzatziki.
  • Don't skimp on the whisking; proper emulsification of the oil and lemon ensures the marinade adheres thickly to the chicken, maximizing flavor absorption during the resting time.
  • Author: Marlon Zuniga
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American