Greek Lemon Chicken

This Greek Lemon Chicken recipe brings Mediterranean flavors to your table with a simple marinade made from olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, Greek seasoning, and Greek yogurt. The chicken turns out incredibly juicy and tender, with a burst of tangy, savory flavors. It’s perfect for meal prep, easy weeknight dinners, or when you’re hosting guests. Serve it with classic Greek sides like Greek salad, orzo, or pita bread for a complete meal.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts

  • 1/4 cup olive oil

  • 5 garlic cloves, chopped

  • 1/2 lemon, juiced (about 2 tbsp)

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

  • 1 tbsp Greek seasoning

  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt

Directions

  1. Prepare the Marinade:
    In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, chopped garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, black pepper, Greek seasoning, and Greek yogurt. Mix until smooth.

  2. Marinate the Chicken:
    Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the yogurt-based marinade over the chicken. Coat each piece completely, then seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally overnight for more flavor.

  3. Cook the Chicken:
    Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add olive oil to the pan and sear the marinated chicken breasts for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).

  4. Rest and Serve:
    Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes to lock in the juices. Slice the chicken and serve with any remaining yogurt sauce for extra flavor.

Nutrients

  • Calories: 276 kcal

  • Protein: 26 grams

  • Fat: 17 grams

    • Saturated Fat: 3 grams

    • Polyunsaturated Fat: 2 grams

    • Monounsaturated Fat: 11 grams

  • Carbohydrates: 6 grams

    • Fiber: 2 grams

    • Sugar: 1 gram

  • Cholesterol: 73 mg

  • Sodium: 719 mg

  • Potassium: 522 mg

  • Calcium: 91 mg

  • Iron: 2 mg

This recipe is a great source of lean protein and healthy fats from olive oil and Greek yogurt. The marinade infuses the chicken with flavor while keeping it tender and juicy, making this dish both nutritious and delicious.

The Marinade: Flavorful and Tenderizing

The key to Greek Lemon Chicken’s irresistible flavor lies in its marinade. This marinade is a blend of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, Greek seasoning, salt, black pepper, and Greek yogurt. Olive oil adds healthy fats that help keep the chicken moist during cooking, while garlic provides a fragrant and savory kick. Lemon juice adds a tangy, zesty note that brightens up the dish and enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Paprika brings a mild smokiness, while Greek seasoning—often a blend of oregano, thyme, and other Mediterranean herbs—adds the signature herby flavor that makes this dish unmistakably Greek. Greek yogurt contributes a creamy texture and tang, making the chicken tender while adding a delicious richness that balances the acidity of the lemon and the heat from the paprika.

This marinade is easy to prepare and makes the chicken exceptionally juicy and flavorful. Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld, but for even more depth, marinating overnight is ideal. The longer the chicken marinates, the more the flavors penetrate the meat.

Cooking the Chicken: Perfectly Seared

Once marinated, the chicken breasts are ready to be cooked. Heating olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat ensures the chicken gets a nice sear on the outside while staying juicy on the inside. Searing the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side creates a golden brown crust that adds texture and locks in the juices.

It’s important to cook the chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), which guarantees it’s cooked through but still moist and tender. After cooking, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is as juicy as the first.

Serving Suggestions: Classic Greek Sides

This Greek Lemon Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of Greek-inspired sides. For a complete meal, serve the chicken with a refreshing Greek salad, featuring cucumber, tomato, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese, all tossed in a simple olive oil and lemon dressing. The cool, crisp salad contrasts beautifully with the warm, savory chicken.

Another great pairing is orzo, a rice-shaped pasta that can be served simply with olive oil and lemon or tossed with fresh herbs for extra flavor. Pita bread is also a great option for dipping into the yogurt sauce, adding a satisfying carb element to the meal.

Why You Should Try Greek Lemon Chicken

Greek Lemon Chicken is a fantastic option for anyone looking for a flavorful and healthy meal that’s quick and easy to prepare. The marinade infuses the chicken with tangy, savory flavors while keeping it tender and juicy. With just a handful of ingredients, this dish brings the bright, fresh flavors of the Mediterranean to your table. It’s also incredibly versatile, making it perfect for meal prep, a light weeknight dinner, or as part of a larger spread for a dinner party.

Conclusion

Greek Lemon Chicken is a flavorful, simple dish that delivers a balance of tangy, savory, and creamy notes, making it an excellent choice for any occasion. Whether served with classic Greek sides or paired with a fresh salad and bread, this dish is a perfect example of Mediterranean cuisine at its best. With its healthy ingredients and easy preparation, Greek Lemon Chicken is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

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