If you’ve been craving a flavorful and easy-to-make meal that brings the sunny flavors of the Mediterranean right to your dinner table, look no further. This Greek Grilled Chicken recipe is juicy, zesty, and infused with lemon, garlic, and oregano. Even better? It takes just 30 minutes from start to finish.
Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend BBQ, this dish delivers bold Greek flavor with minimal effort. Let’s walk through exactly how to master this Greek classic in your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Greek Grilled Chicken
This recipe is:
- ✅ Quick and easy – done in just 30 minutes
- ✅ Healthy and protein-rich
- ✅ Packed with authentic Mediterranean flavors
- ✅ Perfect for grilling season or stovetop grilling
- ✅ Pairs well with salad, rice, or pita bread
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Greek cuisine lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need for this grilled chicken recipe:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if you prefer)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon thyme or rosemary (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley or dill
- Lemon wedges
- Crumbled feta cheese
🥣 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Marinade (5 Minutes)
In a large bowl or zip-top bag, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and mix well to coat.
Tip: You can marinate for as little as 15 minutes, but if you have time, 2 hours in the fridge will deepen the flavor.
Step 2: Preheat the Grill (5 Minutes)
Preheat your outdoor grill or stovetop grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates or pan.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken (10–12 Minutes)
Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill each side for 5 to 6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Pro tip: Pressing the chicken lightly with tongs should release juices—don’t overcook or it’ll become dry.
Step 4: Rest and Serve (5–8 Minutes)
Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Garnish with chopped parsley, crumbled feta, and lemon wedges.
🍽 What to Serve with Greek Grilled Chicken
Pair your grilled chicken with these delicious Mediterranean sides:
- Tzatziki sauce or hummus
- Greek salad with olives, cucumber, and tomato
- Pita bread or flatbread
- Lemon rice or roasted potatoes
- Grilled vegetables
🧑🍳 Variations to Try
This base recipe is super flexible! Try these twists:
- Spicy Greek Chicken: Add ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- Herb Explosion: Add chopped fresh dill and mint.
- Yogurt Marinade: Swap olive oil for ½ cup Greek yogurt for ultra-moist chicken.
- Skewers: Cut the chicken into chunks and thread onto skewers for Greek chicken souvlaki.
🥡 Storing and Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
- Reheat: Use a skillet on medium-low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Greek Grilled Chicken
- Use fresh lemon juice – bottled lacks the brightness you want.
- Let the chicken rest – this keeps it juicy.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill – give each piece space to sear.
- Pound thick chicken breasts – for even cooking.
🌿 Health Benefits of This Dish
Greek cuisine emphasizes whole foods, healthy fats, and lean protein. This chicken is:
- Low in carbs
- Rich in protein
- Gluten-free
- Dairy-free (without feta garnish)
It fits into many diets, including keto, Mediterranean, and paleo.
🧾 Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 34g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbs: 2g
- Sugar: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
Note: Nutrition may vary based on portion size and garnishes.
🇬🇷 A Taste of Greece at Home
There’s a reason Greek grilled chicken is a go-to dish in Mediterranean households: it’s simple, fresh, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re new to Greek cooking or looking for a fast and reliable weeknight meal, this 30-minute recipe will not disappoint.
So grab your lemons, fire up the grill, and enjoy a delicious meal that transports you to the sun-drenched coast of Greece—without ever leaving your kitchen.
📌 Final Thoughts
This Greek Grilled Chicken recipe is quick, healthy, and full of bright Mediterranean flavor. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again—especially when you want something fast, fresh, and crowd-pleasing.