Greek Chicken : This dish combines tender chicken, zesty marinades, and vibrant herbs, all inspired by the traditional tastes of Greece. Perfectly seared and oven-roasted to golden perfection. Pair it with a crisp Greek salad, fluffy pita bread, or a dollop of creamy tzatziki for a wholesome meal that feels like a mini-vacation.
What is Greek Chicken?
Greek chicken is a flavorful dish featuring chicken marinated in a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and other Mediterranean spices. This dish captures the essence of Greek cuisine, known for its focus on fresh, wholesome ingredients and bold, tangy flavors. Whether grilled, baked, or roasted, Greek chicken is a timeless recipe that’s perfect for any occasion.
Variations of Greek Chicken
- Greek Chicken Souvlaki: Skewer the marinated chicken and grill for a quick, crowd-pleasing dish.
- Lemon Herb Greek Chicken Thighs: Use chicken thighs for a juicier alternative with crispy skin.
- Sheet Pan Greek Chicken: Add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions to your baking tray for a one-pan meal.
- Greek Chicken Gyros: Slice the chicken thinly and serve with tzatziki and flatbread.
- Slow Cooker Greek Chicken: Combine the ingredients in a slow cooker for a hassle-free version.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Greek Chicken
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and garlic make all the difference.
- Don’t Overcook: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken remains juicy.
- Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after cooking for optimal juiciness.
- Crisp It Up: For baked chicken, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for a golden finish.
How to Serve Greek Chicken
The beauty of Greek chicken lies in its versatility. Here are some serving ideas to inspire you:
- With Traditional Sides: Serve alongside tzatziki sauce, Greek salad, and roasted potatoes.
- In a Wrap: Layer the chicken in pita bread with lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, and feta cheese.
- Over Rice or Quinoa: Create a balanced meal with a Mediterranean grain base.
- On a Salad: Top a bed of greens with Greek chicken, kalamata olives, cucumbers, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Meze Platter: Pair with hummus, stuffed grape leaves, and fresh pita for a stunning appetizer spread.
How to Store Greek Chicken
Refrigerator:
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop to maintain texture.
Freezer:
Freeze cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a flavorful and juicy option. They’re also less likely to dry out during cooking.
What can I substitute for oregano?
You can use thyme, marjoram, or an Italian seasoning blend if you don’t have oregano on hand.
Can I cook this in an air fryer?
Yes! Cook at 375°F for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Is Greek chicken gluten-free?
The recipe itself is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure any sides or additional ingredients (like pita) are labeled gluten-free.
What wine pairs well with Greek chicken?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a dry rosé complements the zesty flavors beautifully.
Greek Chicken
Greek Chicken : This dish combines tender chicken, zesty marinades, and vibrant herbs, all inspired by the traditional tastes of Greece. Perfectly seared and oven-roasted to golden perfection. Pair it with a crisp Greek salad, fluffy pita bread, or a dollop of creamy tzatziki for a wholesome meal that feels like a mini-vacation.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 8 pieces)
- 2 large lemons (zested and juiced)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 small shallot, minced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 6 sprigs fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the zest and juice of 2 lemons, minced shallot, garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, paprika, and black pepper. Whisk until fully blended.
- Pat chicken thighs dry and toss them in the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated. Cover and refrigerate for 1-2 hours.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add half the chicken, shaking off excess marinade, and cook 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature hits 165°F.
- Set aside and repeat with remaining chicken.
- Remove any garlic bits from the pan and serve the chicken garnished with freshly chopped parsley.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 522Total Fat: 31gSaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 24gCholesterol: 277mgSodium: 880mgCarbohydrates: 8gFiber: 2gSugar: 2gProtein: 56g
Chickenrecipes.blog, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Greek chicken is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of Mediterranean flavors that’s easy to make and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress. With its aromatic herbs, juicy chicken, and vibrant accompaniments, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again.
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