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๐Ÿฅ˜Recipes by Nani
Dinner

Nani's Favorite Greek Chicken Marinade

This simple marinade makes your chicken tender, juicy, and packed with classic Mediterranean flavors.

By Recipes By Naniยท ๐ŸŒ Greekยท July 19, 2026
Nani's Favorite Greek Chicken Marinade
recipesbynani.com
Prep
10 minutes
Cook
15 minutes
Total
25 minutes
Serves
4

There is nothing better than a dinner that comes together with just a few pantry staples. This Greek marinade is a total staple in my kitchen because it turns plain chicken breasts or thighs into a restaurant quality meal with hardly any effort at all.

My best tip is to let the chicken soak for at least an hour if you have the time. The lemon juice and yogurt work together to break down the fibers, which keeps every bite super tender even if you accidentally leave it on the grill a minute too long.

๐Ÿงบ Ingredients

  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • Juice of 1 large lemon
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1.5 pounds boneless chicken breasts or thighs

๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐ŸณInstructions

  1. 1

    Whisk the olive oil, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, dried oregano, lemon juice, salt, and pepper together in a medium bowl until smooth.

  2. 2

    Place your chicken into a large sealable plastic bag or a shallow glass dish.

  3. 3

    Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure every piece is well coated.

  4. 4

    Seal the bag or cover the dish and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, though 2 to 4 hours is even better for the best flavor.

  5. 5

    Cook the chicken on your grill, in a hot skillet, or in the oven until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.

๐Ÿ’ก Tips

Serve this chicken alongside a crisp cucumber salad, warm pita bread, and a side of tzatziki for a full Mediterranean feast. If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days and use them for quick salads or wraps during the week.

Made this recipe? Let us know how it went.

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