Greek Grilled Chicken Breast is a delicious and simple dish that brings together juicy chicken breasts marinated in bright lemon juice, garlic, and fragrant herbs like oregano and thyme. The grilling gives the chicken a beautiful char and smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the fresh, zesty marinade. It’s the kind of meal that feels light but still satisfying, making it great for any time of year.
I love making this recipe when I want something that tastes like a little vacation on a plate. The flavors remind me of sunny days and outdoor dinners with friends. My favorite part is how easy it is to marinate the chicken ahead of time, which means you can toss it on the grill when you’re ready and have dinner ready in no time. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser—everyone seems to enjoy those classic Greek flavors.
I usually serve the grilled chicken alongside a simple Greek salad or some fluffy rice with cucumbers and tomatoes. Sometimes I add a side of tzatziki sauce for dipping, which makes it extra tasty. This chicken is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a casual weekend barbecue, and I always find myself going back for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless breasts work best for quick grilling and even cooking. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for juicier meat, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
Olive oil & lemon juice: Olive oil adds richness, and fresh lemon juice gives bright citrus flavor. If fresh lemons aren’t available, bottled lemon juice is okay, but fresh is always tastier.
Garlic & herbs: Fresh minced garlic really enhances flavor. Dried oregano and thyme give that classic Greek taste. You can swap dried herbs for fresh if you have them, just use about 3 times more fresh herbs.
Feta cheese: Crumbled feta adds a nice salty tang on top. If you want a dairy-free option, skip the feta or try a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a similar savory note.
How Do You Get Perfect Grill Marks and Juicy Chicken?
Grilling chicken can be tricky since you want those nice grill marks without drying out the meat. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan until it’s hot before adding chicken. This helps create a good sear.
- Lightly oil the grill grates or the chicken to prevent sticking.
- Don’t move the chicken too much—let it cook fully on one side before flipping.
- Cook about 6-8 minutes per side, but check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to reach 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest off the heat for 5 minutes to keep juices locked in.
Following these tips, you’ll get flavorful, tender chicken with beautiful grill marks every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Grill or grill pan – perfect for getting those classic grill marks and smoky flavor.
- Resealable plastic bag or shallow dish – makes marinating easy and mess-free.
- Tongs – helps flip the chicken without piercing it, keeping juices inside.
- Meat thermometer – ensures your chicken is perfectly cooked and safe to eat.
- Whisk or fork – useful for mixing the marinade ingredients smoothly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken breasts for thighs if you want extra juicy and flavorful meat.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cumin to the marinade for a subtle smoky twist.
- Mix in chopped fresh mint or dill with the parsley for a fresh herbal kick.
- Serve with a dollop of tzatziki or a sprinkle of chopped kalamata olives for more Greek flair.
How to Make Greek Grilled Chicken Breast?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish and Serving:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Cherry tomatoes and grilled vegetables (like pineapple chunks and onion)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the marinade and chicken plus 15 minutes grilling. The chicken should ideally marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours for the best flavor, so overall plan on about 45 minutes to 2 hours and 15 minutes depending on how long you marinate.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade and Marinate the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, then pour the marinade over them, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
2. Prepare the Grill:
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade and shake off any excess liquid. Discard the leftover marinade. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook about 6-8 minutes on each side, until nicely charred with grill marks and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Grill Vegetables (Optional):
In the last minute of cooking, add the cherry tomatoes and grilled vegetables like pineapple and onion to the grill just to warm and lightly char them.
5. Rest and Serve:
Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes so the juices settle. Then transfer to a serving platter and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and crumbled feta cheese. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh rosemary sprigs if you have them. Serve hot with the grilled veggies on the side.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for Greek Grilled Chicken Breast?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before marinating and grilling. Thawing ensures even cooking and better absorption of the marinade flavors.
How Long Should I Marinate the Chicken?
Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, aim for 1 to 2 hours. Avoid marinating longer than 8 hours, as the acid in lemon juice can start to break down the texture of the chicken.
Can I Make This Recipe Without a Grill?
Absolutely! You can use a grill pan or a regular skillet on the stove over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to keep it juicy and flavorful.