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grilled chicken tenders on a white plate with lemon wedges

Flavor-Packed and Easy Greek Chicken Recipe for Weeknight Dinners


  • Author: Elisa
  • Total Time: 25
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

This easy Greek chicken recipe is juicy, flavorful, and fast—perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

  • Juice of 1 large lemon (about 2 tablespoons)

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon paprika or crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat


Instructions

Start by preparing the marinade. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. If you like a little kick, add a pinch of paprika or red pepper flakes. Place the chicken in a zip-top bag or shallow container and pour the marinade over it. Seal and toss to coat the chicken evenly. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, although one to two hours is ideal for deeper flavor. If you’re short on time, even 15 minutes will still enhance the taste.

Once marinated, remove the chicken from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to ensure even cooking. Heat your skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. If grilling outdoors, preheat the grill to medium heat and oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the chicken on the hot surface and cook for about 5–6 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

 

After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices and ensures every bite is tender and moist. Slice and serve immediately with your favorite sides, or store for later if meal prepping.

Notes

Even though this recipe is incredibly simple, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final outcome. One frequent issue is not marinating the chicken long enough. While the flavors still work with a short marination, giving it time to sit allows the herbs, garlic, and lemon to really penetrate the meat. Additionally, using too much acid (like lemon juice) without enough oil can make the chicken mushy over time, so be sure to maintain the proper balance.

 

Another mistake is overcrowding the pan or grill. This leads to steaming rather than searing and results in less flavor. Always give the chicken space to cook evenly. Also, be careful not to overcook the chicken—this is where a thermometer can be extremely helpful. Lastly, resist the urge to cut into the chicken immediately after cooking. Letting it rest allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meat tender.

  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 15
  • Category: DINNER
  • Cuisine: AMERICAIN

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 280