Sunshine & Herbs: The Ultimate Greek Chicken Marinade
Craving yummy chicken? This Greek Chicken Marinade is sunshine in a bowl! Easy, flavourful, and perfect for grilling. Get the recipe and tips now! ... Global Cuisine
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook: Sunshine on a Plate!
Ever feel like your chicken needs a little je ne sais quoi ? this greek chicken marinade is your answer! honestly, it's like sunshine in a bowl.
It is bursting with flavour thanks to the lemon and herbs.
Brief Overview: A Taste of the Med
This marinade is a taste of the mediterranean, simple and so good. it's easy to make, only takes about 10 minutes to prep, and requires at least 30 minutes to marinate.
It makes enough for about 2 pounds of chicken. think of it as a quick trip to mykonos without the airfare!
Main Benefits: Healthy & Delicious
This marinade is healthy. it is packed with antioxidants and vitamins. it's perfect for a bbq, a quick weeknight dinner, or even a fancy dinner party.
What makes this greek chicken marinade special? it's the perfect balance of tangy lemon and earthy herbs. it creates a flavour bomb that you'll want to make again and again! plus, it's a fantastic way to enjoy chicken recipes with yogurt , like a chicken in yogurt marinade .
Ready to get started?
Discover the Magic of Yummy Chicken Marinade
Mediterranean chicken marinade isn't just a recipe; it's an experience. it's a trip to greece, right from your kitchen! a good marinade can change everything and this one makes the chicken so juicy and flavorful.
The Star: A Lemon Herb Chicken Marinade
This lemon herb chicken marinade is amazing. The Greek marinated chicken thighs will be tender and juicy. You will be amazed at how it transforms your chicken.
Baking Greek Chicken Recipe: a crowd favourite
Looking for a delicious and easy meal? a baked greek chicken recipe is perfect. try this easy chicken marinade recipe tonight.
You won't regret it! and remember this is the only chicken yogurt you will need!
Embrace the Simplicity: Easy Chicken Marinade Recipe
This recipe is one of my favourites because it's simple and tastes amazing. You will get juicy chicken in under 30 minutes!
Sunshine & Herbs: The Ultimate Greek Chicken Marinade Recipe Card
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Ingredients & Equipment: Sunshine & Herbs Edition
So, you wanna make some yummy chicken marinade ? awesome! this isn't just any old chicken recipe with yogurt. this greek chicken marinade is the secret to chicken so good, it'll make you wanna yell "opa!" whether you're grilling, baking, or pan-frying, trust me, this is a winner.
Main Ingredients: Let's Get Specific!
Alright, here's the deal. you'll need these key ingredients for the best lemon herb chicken marinade . don't skimp on the quality – it makes a difference! we're aiming for flavor town, population: you and your taste buds.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: ¼ cup (60ml) . Good quality stuff, alright? Trust me, it matters.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: ¼ cup (60ml) – about 1-2 lemons. Freshly squeezed is key.
- Garlic: 4 cloves , minced. That’s about 1 tablespoon , yeah?
- Dried Oregano: 2 tablespoons . Gotta have that classic Greek flavor!
- Fresh Mint: 1 tablespoon , finely chopped. Optional, but oh-so-good!
- Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon . This helps everything mix nicely.
- Lemon Zest: 1 teaspoon , finely grated. That lemony kick!
- Sea Salt: ½ teaspoon (or to taste). Don’t be shy with the salt!
- Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon , freshly ground. Freshly ground is always best.
Seasoning Notes: The Magic is in the Spices!
This mediterranean chicken marinade is all about balance. oregano is the backbone. but the lemon zest and mint lift everything up.
Want a kick? add a pinch of red pepper flakes! it’s your party. experiment and have fun. for a more intense flavour, use fresh rosemary and thyme to make a lemony herb infusion.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple!
You don’t need fancy gadgets for this easy chicken marinade recipe . Just the basics will do. I mean, who has time for complicated equipment?
- Measuring cups and spoons. Obvi.
- Small bowl or jar. To mix the goodness.
- Whisk or fork. Either works!
- Zester. For that lemony zing.
- Lemon Juicer. Optional, but it makes life easier.
- Knife & Cutting Board. Safety first, people!
- Resealable bag or container. For marinating the greek marinated chicken thighs .
Honestly, if you've got those bits, you're golden! Get ready for some serious grilled Greek chicken or baked Greek chicken recipe action.
Sunshine & Herbs: The Ultimate Greek Chicken Marinade
Honestly, who doesn't love yummy chicken marinade ? this greek chicken marinade will transport you straight to the mediterranean. i've been using this recipe for years.
My family begs for it! it's super easy and tastes incredible. this isn't just any easy chicken marinade recipe ; it's a taste of sunshine!
Prep Steps: Mise en Place Magic
First things first: get organized. we call this mise en place in the biz. it's basically having everything ready. mince your garlic, juice your lemons, and chop that mint.
Seriously, fresh mint makes a huge difference. having everything prepped saves you time and stress. make sure to use a stable cutting board when you prep your ingredients.
Step-by-Step: Marinating Like a Pro
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Whisk together ¼ cup (60ml) Extra Virgin Olive Oil , ¼ cup (60ml) Fresh Lemon Juice , and 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard .
- Add Aromatics & Seasoning: Stir in 4 cloves minced Garlic , 2 tablespoons Dried Oregano , 1 tablespoon chopped Fresh Mint , 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest , ½ teaspoon Sea Salt , and ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper .
- Taste and Adjust: Give it a taste! Need more lemon? Add it. More oregano? Go for it.
- Marinate Chicken: Place your chicken in a bag or container. Pour that beautiful lemon herb chicken marinade over it.
- Refrigerate: Seal it up and refrigerate. Aim for at least 30 minutes . But 2- 4 hours is even better. Overnight? Amazing! Make sure you are storing in a stable part of the refrigerator.
- Cook Chicken: Cook it! Use your favorite way, like grilled Greek chicken or baked Greek chicken recipe . Make sure the internal temp reaches 165° F ( 74° C) .
Pro Tips for Greek Chicken Greatness
Don't over-marinate! more than 24 hours and your chicken will get mushy. use fresh lemon juice. bottled stuff just doesn't compare.
Chicken in yogurt marinade is also a thing, but this greek marinated chicken thighs version, especially with the lemon, is the best imho.
Enjoy this mediterranean chicken marinade !
Recipe Notes for Sunshine & Herbs: Greek Chicken Marinade
So, you're about to whip up this amazing greek chicken marinade ? excellent choice! honestly, i've made this recipe so many times, i could probably do it in my sleep.
But, here are some extra tips to make sure it's a total success for you, too.
Serving Suggestions: From Plating to Pairings
Let's talk serving. think sunshine and holidays! picture this: perfectly grilled chicken, glistening with that yummy chicken marinade , artfully arranged on a platter.
Add a vibrant greek salad – you know, with the juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and salty feta. a sprig of mint? chef's kiss.
And for drinks? a chilled glass of dry white wine or even just some sparkling water with a lemon wedge works wonders.
Or, serve it up classic with a side of greek lemon rice .
Storage Tips: Keeping the Flavors Alive
Right, so you've got leftovers? no worries! the cooked chicken keeps well. pop it in an airtight container in the fridge.
It's good for 3-4 days . you can also freeze cooked chicken for up to 3 months . make sure it's cooled completely first! reheating? oven, microwave, even a quick pan-fry works.
Just make sure it's piping hot 165° f ( 74° c) before tucking in.
Variations: Adapt to Your Taste and Diet
Fancy a little twist? you got it! how about spicy greek chicken ? just add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the lemon herb chicken marinade .
Want it lighter? you can make a chicken in yogurt marinade to add probiotics. for a gluten-free version, just make sure your dijon mustard is gluten-free (most are!).
Honestly, this recipe is super adaptable.
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite
Okay, so this isn't a health food blog, but a little nutrition info never hurts, right? this mediterranean chicken marinade is fairly low in calories and fat.
The olive oil is a source of healthy fats, and the lemon juice provides vitamin c. each serving (estimated) packs around 200 calories, 30g of protein, 8g of fat, 2g of carbohydrates, and 300mg of sodium.
Remember it's an estimate!.
So there you have it! I know this easy chicken marinade recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Go on, give it a whirl. You got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I marinate my chicken in this Greek chicken marinade?
For the best flavour, aim for at least 30 minutes, but ideally 2-4 hours. You can marinate it overnight in the fridge, but be careful not to go beyond 24 hours, as the lemon juice can start to break down the chicken's texture, making it a bit mushy. Think of it like leaving your tea bag in for too long – it gets bitter!
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs in this Greek chicken marinade?
Absolutely! While fresh herbs add a vibrant flavor, dried herbs work perfectly well. Use the measurement provided in the recipe for dried oregano. If substituting other dried herbs for fresh (like mint), remember that dried herbs have a more concentrated flavour, so use about 1/3 of the amount specified for fresh.
What's the best way to cook chicken that's been marinated in this Greek chicken marinade?
The beauty of this marinade is its versatility! You can grill it, bake it, or pan-fry it. Grilling gives a lovely smoky char, baking is convenient and even, and pan-frying is quick and easy. Just remember to discard the marinade after use and ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) no matter which method you choose. Nobody wants a "raw chicken" situation!
Can I freeze chicken that's been marinated in the Greek chicken marinade?
Yes, you can! Marinating and freezing is a fantastic way to meal prep. Place the chicken and marinade in a freezer-safe bag, remove as much air as possible, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you're ready to cook, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight. This method actually enhances the flavour as the chicken marinates while it thaws – a win-win!
Is this Greek chicken marinade recipe healthy?
Generally, yes! This Greek chicken marinade is made with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, all of which are considered healthy ingredients. It's relatively low in calories and provides a good source of flavour without relying on excessive salt or unhealthy fats. Remember to consider the nutritional value of the chicken and any sides you serve with it.
