Greek Chicken Recipe
Greek chicken recipe is a mouthwatering cuisine known for its fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and healthful benefits. One standout dish that captures the essence of the Mediterranean is Greek chicken. This dish is a beautiful combination of marinated chicken infused with herbs, lemon, and garlic, offering a mouthwatering burst of flavor with every bite. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, Greek chicken is an easy, delicious, and nutritious option that everyone will enjoy.
Brief History of the Recipe:
Greek chicken, like many dishes from the Mediterranean, draws from a rich history of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Rooted in ancient Greek cuisine, this dish embodies the Greek love for cooking with olive oil, garlic, herbs like oregano, and citrus. These ingredients have been staples for centuries, often used to marinate meats and vegetables to enhance flavor and ensure tenderness. This marinated style of cooking reflects the Mediterranean way of embracing natural ingredients to create wholesome, delicious meals.
Greek Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Whisk or fork (for mixing the marinade)
- Plastic or zip-top bag (for marinating the chicken)
- Grill pan or regular pan
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer (optional)
- Serving platter
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano (or 2 tablespoons fresh)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (optional for serving)
- Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
- Lemon wedges (optional for serving)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:In a medium mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Whisk the marinade ingredients until well mixed.
- Place the chicken breasts or thighs in a zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For maximum flavor, marinate for up to 2 hours but no longer than overnight.
- Preheat the Grill or Pan:If grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F or 190-200°C). For stovetop cooking, heat a large grill pan or regular pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with olive oil.
- Cook the Chicken:Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Discard the remaining marinade.
- Place the chicken on the grill or in the pan. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the chicken, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- If the chicken starts to brown too quickly, reduce the heat slightly. The chicken should be golden with a bit of char from the grill.
- Rest and Serve:Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or dill and serve with a side of Greek yogurt for dipping and lemon wedges on the side for extra flavor.
- Serving Suggestions:Greek chicken pairs perfectly with a side of roasted vegetables, rice, pita bread, or a traditional Greek salad. You can also serve it in wraps or over a bed of quinoa for a healthy lunch option.
Video
Similar Recipes:
– Chicken Souvlaki: Another classic Greek dish where chicken is skewered and grilled, often served with tzatziki sauce and pita.
– Mediterranean Lemon Chicken: A tangy and flavorful baked chicken dish featuring lemon, garlic, and herbs.
– Greek Chicken Gyro: Marinated chicken wrapped in pita bread with fresh vegetables and a drizzle of tzatziki sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions About Greek Chicken Recipe:
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work great for this recipe. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful but will have a slightly higher fat content.
2. How long should I marinate the chicken?
For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but you can leave it for up to 2 hours. Avoid marinating overnight as the acidity of the lemon juice can make the chicken tough.
3. Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling it?
Absolutely. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the marinated chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
4. What can I serve with Greek chicken?
Greek chicken pairs well with rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, Greek salad, or even a side of pita bread.
5. Is Greek chicken healthy?
Yes, this recipe is packed with lean protein, healthy fats from olive oil, and antioxidants from the herbs and lemon.
6. Can I make the marinade in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
7. What if I don’t have a grill?
You can use a grill pan or a regular skillet on the stovetop. Alternatively, you can bake the chicken in the oven.
8. Can I freeze Greek chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the marinated raw chicken in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw it in the fridge and cook as directed.
9. What does Greek chicken taste like?
It’s savory with a balance of lemony tang, garlic richness, and herbaceous flavors from the oregano and thyme.
10. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, the chicken itself is dairy-free. If serving with yogurt, simply use a dairy-free alternative like coconut or almond yogurt.
Conclusion:
Greek chicken is the perfect dish for anyone looking to explore the bold and vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. It’s simple to prepare, healthy, and versatile, making it a go-to for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Once you try this delicious recipe, it’s sure to become a regular on your menu!
YouTube Video Credits:
America’s Test Kitchen
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