If you’re looking for juicy Mediterranean chicken marinade recipes for grilling, you’ve come to the right place! I remember one summer evening when my son, Jake, decided he wanted to help with dinner. We ended up marinating chicken in a zesty Mediterranean blend, and it was a hit with the whole family. This marinade not only adds flavor but also keeps the chicken tender and juicy.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love It
- It’s packed with fresh herbs and spices.
- Perfect for summer barbecues with family and friends.
- Versatile enough to use on various meats and veggies.
Pure Comfort
There’s something about grilled chicken that brings everyone together. The smoky aroma wafting from the grill and the sizzle of the chicken make it a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug.
What You Need
- 4 oz 1/2 cup olive oil – Extra virgin olive oil adds richness.
- 2 oz 1/4 cup lemon juice – Freshly squeezed for the best flavor.
- 4 cloves 4 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
- 2 tbsp 2 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped – Dried oregano works too.
- 2 tbsp 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped – You can substitute with basil.
- 1 tsp 1 tsp salt – Adjust based on your taste.
- 1/2 tsp 1/2 tsp black pepper – Feel free to add more for spice.
- 2 lbs 2 lbs chicken thighs or breasts – Bone-in or boneless both work well.
Time to Cook
Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 20 minutes | Total: 35 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, marinate for up to 24 hours.
Steps to Make It
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, parsley, salt, and black pepper. The mixture should be well combined and fragrant, giving off a fresh aroma.
- Place the chicken in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. This step is crucial for flavor and tenderness.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, letting it marinate for a few hours or overnight will enhance the flavor even more.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 375°F to 400°F. You want the grill hot enough to create those beautiful grill marks and a nice sear.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Place the chicken on the grill, cooking for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Look for a nice golden color and grill marks.
- Check for doneness by using a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F. This ensures the chicken is safe to eat and perfectly juicy.
- Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making every bite tender and flavorful.
- Serve the grilled chicken with your favorite sides, like a fresh Greek salad or grilled veggies. Enjoy the delicious flavors of the Mediterranean!
Make It Perfect
- For extra flavor, try adding a tablespoon of honey to the marinade.
- If you want a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes to the mix.
- Don’t skip the resting step; it’s key for juicy chicken.
Mix It Up
- Swap out chicken for shrimp or veggies for a lighter option.
- Try adding different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique twist.
Perfect Partners
- Serve with tzatziki sauce for a refreshing dip.
- Pair with pita bread and hummus for a complete Mediterranean meal.
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FAQs
Can I make this marinade ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade and store it in the fridge for up to a week.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge before grilling.
What can I substitute for olive oil?
You can use avocado oil or canola oil if needed.
Is this marinade good for other meats?
Definitely! This Mediterranean chicken marinade works great with pork or lamb too.
Conclusion
These Mediterranean chicken marinade recipes for grilling are sure to become a family favorite. The vibrant flavors and juicy texture will have everyone coming back for seconds. So fire up that grill and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean!
Juicy Mediterranean Chicken Marinade Recipes for Grilling
Equipment
- medium bowl
- large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish
- grill
- meat thermometer
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 oz extra virgin olive oil Adds richness
- 2 oz lemon juice Freshly squeezed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Garlic powder can be used in a pinch
- 2 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped Dried oregano works too
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped You can substitute with basil
- 1 tsp salt Adjust based on your taste
- 0.5 tsp black pepper Feel free to add more for spice
- 2 lbs chicken thighs or breasts Bone-in or boneless both work well
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, parsley, salt, and black pepper until well combined and fragrant.
- Place the chicken in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken, coating each piece well.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or for a few hours to overnight for more flavor.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, about 375°F to 400°F, to create grill marks and a nice sear.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and let excess drip off, then place on the grill and cook about 6-7 minutes per side until golden with grill marks.
- Check for doneness with a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F to ensure safety and juiciness.
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Serve the grilled chicken with your favorite sides such as Greek salad or grilled vegetables and enjoy.