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Succulent sliced chicken breast showcasing the creamy yogurt marinade residue and roasted lemon wedges. (Greek Chicken Marinade)

Greek Chicken Marinade: The Secret to Juicy, Charred Perfection

This Greek Chicken Marinade uses a yogurt base and aromatic herbs to create succulent, glistening grilled chicken with deep char marks. Perfect for gyros, salads, or high-protein meal prep that tastes like a Mediterranean vacation.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Calories: 285
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Recipe Components
  • 2 lbs Chicken Breasts Boneless, skinless
  • 1 cup (245g) Full-fat Greek Yogurt Plain, unflavored
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 2 whole Lemons Zested and juiced
  • 6 cloves Garlic Minced
  • 2 tbsp Dried Oregano Extra for garnish
  • 1 tsp Kosher Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper Coarsely ground
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley Chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • 1 Outdoor Grill or Grill Pan
  • 1 Large Mixing Bowl
  • 1 Meat Thermometer

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add chicken breasts to the bowl, coating thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight.
Cooking
  1. Preheat grill to medium-high. Place chicken on grates and sear for 5-7 minutes per side until char marks appear and internal temp is 165°F.
  2. Place lemon wedges on the grill during the last few minutes of cooking until blackened edges appear.
Finishing
  1. Rest meat for 10 minutes. Slice into strips, revealing the yogurt residue in the crevices. Garnish with more oregano and fresh parsley.

Notes

Use full-fat yogurt to prevent curdling.
Don't skip the resting period or the juices will run out.