Garlicky Greek Chicken

Garlicky Greek Chicken is a flavorful, aromatic, and protein-packed dish that brings the authentic taste of Greece to your table. Infused with garlic, lemon, and herbs, this dish is perfect for those who love Mediterranean cuisine. The marinade ensures a tender and juicy texture, making it a must-try recipe for chicken lovers.

This homemade dish is easy to prepare and can be customized with different sides. Whether you follow a low-carb diet or simply want a new way to enjoy chicken, this recipe will surely satisfy your cravings. Let’s explore how to make this delicious Garlicky Greek Chicken from scratch.

Ingredients for Garlicky Greek Chicken

For the Marinade:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs) (240 kcal per breast)
4 cloves garlic, minced (4 kcal per clove)
Juice of 2 lemons (12 kcal)
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (480 kcal)
1 teaspoon dried oregano (5 kcal)
1 teaspoon dried thyme (3 kcal)
1/2 teaspoon sea salt (0 kcal)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper (3 kcal)
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (3 kcal)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (5 kcal)
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (2 kcal)

And For Cooking:

1 tablespoon olive oil (120 kcal)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper (3 kcal)
1/2 teaspoon sea salt (0 kcal)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (1 kcal)
Lemon wedges for serving (6 kcal per wedge)

Optional Sides:

Greek salad (cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta) (Varies based on portion)
Tzatziki sauce (Varies based on portion)
Warm pita bread (165 kcal per pita) or cauliflower rice (25 kcal per cup)

Instructions for Garlicky Greek Chicken

Step 1: Preparing the Marinade

Mix the Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes. The combination of these ingredients creates a balanced blend of flavors, infusing the chicken with tangy, spicy, and herbal notes.
Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken in a large ziplock bag or bowl and pour the marinade over it. Ensure that each piece is well-coated so the flavors penetrate the meat deeply.
Refrigerate: Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor). The longer the chicken sits in the marinade, the more tender and flavorful it will become.

2: Cooking the Chicken

Preheat the Pan: Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Ensure the pan is properly heated before adding the chicken to achieve a good sear.
Cook the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade and shake off excess liquid. Place it in the hot pan and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). If using an oven, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning once midway.
Rest the Chicken: Let the cooked chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Resting the meat allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist and flavorful.

3: Serving and Garnishing

Slice the Chicken: Cut into strips or serve whole with fresh lemon wedges. Thinly slicing the chicken enhances the presentation and makes it easier to eat.
Add Garnish: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of flavor. You can also add extra lemon zest or crumbled feta for added texture and taste.
Pair with Sides: Serve with Greek salad, tzatziki, or warm pita bread for a complete meal. If following a low-carb diet, opt for cauliflower rice or a mixed greens salad.

Why This Garlicky Greek Chicken Works

Bold Greek Flavors: The combination of garlic, lemon, and herbs creates an irresistible Mediterranean taste that perfectly balances tangy, savory, and aromatic elements.
Juicy and Tender: The marinade keeps the chicken moist and flavorful, ensuring every bite is packed with goodness.
Quick and Easy: This dish is ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prepping.
Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with various sides to suit different dietary preferences, whether you prefer a hearty meal with pita bread or a light, refreshing salad.
Healthy and Protein-Packed: A great meal choice for those following a low-carb or high-protein diet. The use of olive oil and lean chicken makes it a heart-healthy option.

Nutritional Information for Garlicky Greek Chicken (Per Serving)

Calories: 350 kcal
Protein: 40g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 420mg
Sugar: 1g

Tips for the Best Garlicky Greek Chicken

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, lemon juice, and herbs will enhance the flavor of this dish significantly.
Marinate for Longer: While 30 minutes works well, marinating for 12-24 hours provides deeper, richer flavors.
Grill for a Smoky Flavor: Cooking this chicken on an outdoor grill will add an authentic, smoky touch to the dish.
Serve with a Variety of Sides: Tzatziki, hummus, and roasted vegetables all pair beautifully with this meal.
Double the Recipe for Meal Prep: This chicken stores well and can be used in wraps, salads, or grain bowls for quick lunches throughout the week.

FAQs

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance for even more flavor. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge until ready to cook.

Can I Use Bone-In Chicken?

Absolutely! Bone-in chicken will take a bit longer to cook, but it will be extra juicy. Adjust the cooking time to around 10-12 minutes per side, or bake at 375°F for 35-40 minutes.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to prevent drying out.

Can I Make This in the Oven?

Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked. Turn the chicken halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe! They tend to be juicier and more flavorful than chicken breasts. Adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may cook faster.

Conclusion

Garlicky Greek Chicken is an easy, flavorful, and nutritious meal that brings Mediterranean flavors to your table. Whether served with a fresh Greek salad, tzatziki, or warm pita, this dish is a perfect addition to your recipe collection. With its bold flavors, juicy texture, and versatility, it’s a dish that will quickly become a household favorite. Try it today and bring the authentic taste of Greece into your home!