Name: Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: For the Chicken:; 1¼ lbs thin boneless skinless chicken breasts; ½ cup olive oil; 1 lemon zest; ¼ cup lemon juice; 1 tsp sugar; 2 tsp garlic; 1 tsp oregano; salt and pepper; For the Tomato Relish:; 1 cup tomato; ¼ cup kalamata olives; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp lemon juice; 2 tsp parsley; salt and pepper; Lemon Wedges

This Greek lemon chicken recipe is a bright and flavorful dish that brings the essence of Mediterranean cuisine right to your table. Juicy chicken breasts are marinated in a zesty lemon and herb mixture, then grilled to perfection and topped with a fresh tomato relish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue.

Photos of Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe might not be staples in your pantry, such as kalamata olives and parsley. Make sure to check the international section or the fresh herbs section of your supermarket to find these items. Kalamata olives add a briny, savory flavor that's a hallmark of Greek cuisine, while parsley offers a fresh, herbal note to the dish.

Ingredients For Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe

Chicken breasts: Thin boneless skinless chicken breasts are ideal for even cooking and quick marination.

Olive oil: Acts as the base for the marinade, bringing richness and helping to infuse the flavors into the chicken.

Lemon zest: Adds a concentrated, aromatic citrus flavor to the marinade.

Lemon juice: Provides a tangy acidity that tenderizes the chicken and enhances its flavor.

Sugar: Balances the acidity of the lemon juice and adds a hint of sweetness to the marinade.

Garlic: Brings a robust, savory flavor to the marinade.

Oregano: A classic herb in Greek cuisine, adding a fragrant, earthy note.

Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

Tomato: Fresh tomatoes make up the base of the relish, adding juiciness and a hint of sweetness.

Kalamata olives: These olives add a briny, savory depth to the relish.

Parsley: Adds a fresh, herbal note to the dish, balancing the other flavors.

Lemon wedges: Serve as a garnish, allowing diners to add extra citrus zing if desired.

One reader, Elsbeth Mazur says:

The Greek lemon chicken recipe is a delightful blend of zesty and savory flavors. The marinade infuses the chicken with a refreshing lemony taste, and the tomato relish adds a perfect touch of freshness. Easy to make and absolutely delicious!

Elsbeth Mazur

Techniques Required for Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe

How to marinate chicken: Combine olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, sugar, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a resealable bag. Add the chicken and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.

How to grill chicken: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side or until cooked through.

How to make tomato relish: Combine chopped tomatoes, kalamata olives, olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl and stir until thoroughly combined.

How To Make Greek Lemon Chicken

This Greek lemon chicken dish is perfect for a busy weeknight, you can quickly prepare the marinated skinless chicken breasts along with the tomato relish.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

1¼lbsthin boneless skinless chicken breasts
½cupolive oil
1lemon zest
¼cuplemon juice
1tspsugar,or honey
2tspgarlic,minced
1tsporegano,dried
salt and pepper,to taste

For the Tomato Relish:

1cuptomato,seeded and diced
¼cupkalamata olives,chopped
1tbspolive oil
1tsplemon juice
2tspparsley,chopped
salt and pepper,to taste
lemon wedges,or parsley sprigs, optional garnishes

Instructions

Grilled Chicken:

In a large resealable bag combine the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, sugar, garlic, oregano, and salt and pepper to taste. Seal the bag and shake to mix all of the ingredients together.
Add the chicken to the bag and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side or until cooked through.
Cook time will vary depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts.

Tomato Relish:

Combine all of the ingredients in a medium bowl and stir until thoroughly combined. This can be made up to 4 hours in advance.
Place the chicken on a platter and spoon the tomato relish over the top. Serve with lemon wedges and parsley sprigs for garnish if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 472.82kcal
Fat: 35.20g
Saturated Fat: 5.16g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 23.83g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.94g
Carbohydrates: 6.92g
Fiber: 1.81g
Sugar: 2.78g
Protein: 32.76g
Cholesterol: 103.48mg
Sodium: 579.29mg
Calcium: 39.60mg
Potassium: 626.26mg
Iron: 1.45mg
Vitamin A: 30.65µg
Vitamin C: 20.43mg

Technique Tip for Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe

To ensure your chicken breasts cook evenly and remain juicy, pound them to an even thickness before marinating. This not only helps the marinade penetrate more effectively but also ensures that the chicken cooks uniformly on the grill.

Time-Saving Tips for Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe

Marinate in advance: Prepare the chicken marinade the night before and let it sit in the fridge. This will save you time on the day of cooking.

Pre-chop ingredients: Chop the tomatoes, garlic, and parsley ahead of time and store them in airtight containers.

Use a grill pan: If you don't have an outdoor grill, a grill pan can be heated quickly on the stove, saving setup time.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and cook extra chicken breasts to use in salads or sandwiches later in the week.

Substitute Ingredients For Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe

thin boneless skinless chicken breasts - Substitute with turkey breast: Turkey breast is a lean protein similar to chicken and can be cooked in a similar manner.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar fat content and a high smoke point, making it suitable for cooking.
lemon zest - Substitute with lime zest: Lime zest provides a similar citrus flavor and aromatic quality.
lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice offers a comparable acidity and citrus flavor.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds sweetness and a slight floral note, which complements the citrus flavors.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, sweeter flavor that can complement the other ingredients.
oregano - Substitute with thyme: Thyme offers a similar earthy and slightly minty flavor profile.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds saltiness along with a depth of umami flavor.
pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit of heat and spice, enhancing the overall flavor.
tomato - Substitute with red bell pepper: Red bell pepper provides a sweet and slightly tangy flavor, similar to tomatoes.
kalamata olives - Substitute with green olives: Green olives offer a similar briny and tangy flavor.
parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro provides a fresh, slightly citrusy flavor that can complement the dish.
lemon wedges - Substitute with lime wedges: Lime wedges offer a similar citrusy tang for garnish.

Best Way to Present Greek Lemon Chicken

Use a pristine white plate: A clean, white plate will make the vibrant colors of the grilled chicken and tomato relish pop, creating a visually appealing contrast.
Slice the chicken diagonally: Thinly slice the grilled chicken breasts at a slight angle to showcase the juicy interior and create an elegant presentation.
Arrange the chicken in a fan shape: Lay the sliced chicken in a fan shape on one side of the plate to give it a sophisticated look.
Spoon the tomato relish artfully: Place a generous spoonful of tomato relish beside the chicken, allowing some of the juices to naturally flow onto the plate for added color and texture.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped parsley over the chicken and tomato relish to add a touch of green and a burst of freshness.
Add lemon wedges strategically: Place lemon wedges around the plate, ensuring they are easily accessible for diners to squeeze over the chicken for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Drizzle with olive oil: Lightly drizzle high-quality olive oil over the entire dish to enhance the flavors and give it a glossy finish.
Use microgreens for a final touch: Add a small handful of microgreens on top of the tomato relish for an extra layer of texture and a modern, gourmet touch.

Essential Tools for Making Lemon Chicken

Resealable bag: Used to marinate the chicken by combining all the marinade ingredients and ensuring the chicken is evenly coated.
Grill: Essential for cooking the marinated chicken breasts to achieve a nice char and smoky flavor.
Grill pan: An alternative to an outdoor grill, perfect for indoor cooking while still providing grill marks and flavor.
Medium bowl: Used to mix the ingredients for the tomato relish, ensuring they are thoroughly combined.
Tongs: Handy for flipping the chicken breasts on the grill or grill pan without piercing the meat.
Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the olive oil, lemon juice, and other liquid ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities of ingredients like sugar, garlic, oregano, and parsley.
Zester: Ideal for zesting the lemon, which adds a burst of citrus flavor to the marinade.
Knife: Essential for chopping the tomatoes, kalamata olives, and parsley for the tomato relish.
Cutting board: Provides a safe and stable surface for chopping ingredients.
Platter: Used to serve the grilled chicken with the tomato relish elegantly arranged on top.
Serving spoon: Useful for spooning the tomato relish over the grilled chicken.
Lemon wedges: Optional for garnish, adding a fresh and vibrant touch to the final dish.

How To Store and Freeze Greek Lemon Chicken

To store leftover greek lemon chicken, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When storing, make sure to keep the tomato relish separate from the chicken to prevent the chicken from becoming soggy. Store the relish in a separate airtight container in the refrigerator.
To freeze the greek lemon chicken, place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
It's not recommended to freeze the tomato relish as the texture and flavor may change after thawing. It's best to make a fresh batch of relish when serving the frozen chicken.
To reheat the frozen greek lemon chicken, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, you can reheat it in the microwave, oven, or on the stovetop until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
If using the oven to reheat, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken in an oven-safe dish. Cover the dish with foil to prevent the chicken from drying out and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
When reheating on the stovetop, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pan to help keep the chicken moist. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is heated through.

How To Reheat Leftover Greek Lemon Chicken

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover greek lemon chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture in the chicken and prevents it from drying out.
If you prefer a crispier texture, you can reheat the chicken in a skillet on the stovetop. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until it's heated through and slightly crispy on the outside.
For a quick and easy option, you can use the microwave to reheat your leftover chicken. Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. Be careful not to overheat the chicken, as it can quickly dry out in the microwave.
If you have leftover tomato relish, you can reheat it separately in a small saucepan on the stovetop over low heat. Stir occasionally until it's heated through. This will help to maintain the texture and flavor of the relish.
For a refreshing twist, you can enjoy your leftover greek lemon chicken cold. Slice the chicken and serve it over a bed of mixed greens, topped with the tomato relish and a drizzle of lemon juice and olive oil. This makes for a delicious and light lunch or dinner option.

Random Fact About Greek Lemon Chicken

A random fact about this Greek lemon chicken recipe is that the lemon juice not only adds a bright, tangy flavor but also helps to tenderize the chicken by breaking down its proteins. This results in a more succulent and flavorful dish.

Is This Lemon Chicken Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

The Greek lemon chicken recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like chicken breasts, olive oil, lemon, and basic seasonings are affordable and often already in the pantry. The tomato relish adds a fresh touch without breaking the bank. Overall, this recipe scores an 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20 USD.

Is Greek Lemon Chicken Healthy?

The Greek lemon chicken recipe is a relatively healthy dish, thanks to its lean protein source and the use of fresh ingredients like lemon, garlic, and tomatoes. The chicken breasts are a great source of low-fat protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. The lemon juice and zest provide a good dose of vitamin C, which supports immune function and helps with the absorption of iron. The tomato relish adds a nice pop of color and provides some additional nutrients like lycopene, an antioxidant that may help protect against certain types of cancer.

However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier:

Reduce the amount of olive oil used in the marinade and for cooking the chicken. While olive oil is a healthy fat, it's still high in calories, and using too much can add unnecessary calories to the dish.
Instead of using sugar in the marinade, consider using a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup, which will provide some additional nutrients.
Increase the amount of vegetables in the dish by adding some grilled or roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant to the plate.
Use whole grain pita bread or a whole grain side dish like quinoa or brown rice to add some additional fiber and nutrients to the meal.
Consider using a low-fat or non-fat Greek yogurt as a topping or dip for the chicken, which will add some additional protein and calcium to the dish.

Editor's Thoughts on Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe

This Greek lemon chicken recipe is a delightful blend of zesty and savory flavors. The marinade, rich with olive oil, lemon, garlic, and oregano, infuses the chicken with a vibrant Mediterranean essence. The tomato relish, with its fresh tomatoes, kalamata olives, and parsley, adds a refreshing contrast and depth. Grilling the chicken enhances its natural flavors, creating a juicy and tender dish. Serving with lemon wedges and parsley sprigs not only adds visual appeal but also an extra burst of freshness. Overall, it's a well-balanced, flavorful dish perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.

Enhance Your Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Greek Lemon Potatoes: Transform your meal with a side of Greek Lemon Potatoes. These golden, crispy delights are infused with the zesty essence of lemon and the aromatic touch of oregano. They perfectly complement the Greek Lemon Chicken, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean.**

Tzatziki Sauce: Elevate your dining experience with a refreshing Tzatziki Sauce. This creamy, tangy dip made from Greek yogurt, cucumber, and a hint of garlic adds a cool contrast to the warm, savory notes of the Greek Lemon Chicken. It's the perfect way to balance the meal and add a burst of freshness.

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: Add a vibrant and nutritious touch to your plate with a Mediterranean Quinoa Salad. Packed with quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese, this salad is a delightful medley of textures and flavors. The light, citrusy dressing ties it all together, making it an ideal companion to the Greek Lemon Chicken.

Roasted Vegetables: Enhance your meal with a colorful array of Roasted Vegetables. Think bell peppers, zucchini, red onions, and eggplant, all caramelized to perfection. The natural sweetness of the vegetables, combined with a hint of olive oil and herbs, creates a delightful contrast to the tangy Greek Lemon Chicken.

Pita Bread with Hummus: Complete your Mediterranean feast with Pita Bread with Hummus. The soft, warm pita bread is perfect for scooping up creamy, flavorful hummus. This classic pairing adds a comforting, hearty element to your meal, making it a satisfying and well-rounded dining experience alongside the Greek Lemon Chicken.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Greek Lemon Chicken

Mediterranean Chicken Skewers: Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with these succulent chicken skewers. Marinated in a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano, these skewers are grilled to perfection. Serve with a side of tzatziki sauce and a fresh Greek salad for a complete meal.

Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs: Juicy chicken thighs marinated in a zesty mix of lemon zest, thyme, rosemary, and garlic. These thighs are oven-roasted until golden brown and served with a side of roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes.

Greek Chicken Souvlaki: Tender pieces of chicken marinated in a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano. Skewered and grilled to perfection, these souvlaki are served with warm pita bread, tzatziki, and a Greek salad.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp: Succulent shrimp marinated in a zesty mix of lemon juice, garlic, and parsley. Quickly sautéed until pink and juicy, these shrimp are perfect served over a bed of rice pilaf or with a side of grilled vegetables.

Greek Lemon Potatoes: Golden potatoes roasted in a flavorful blend of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and oregano. These potatoes are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them the perfect side dish for any Mediterranean meal.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts to Serve with Greek Lemon Chicken

Appetizers:

Stuffed Grape Leaves: Delight your guests with stuffed grape leaves. These delicate parcels are filled with a savory mixture of rice, herbs, and spices, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. The grape leaves provide a unique texture and a slightly tangy taste that complements the filling perfectly. Serve them with a side of tzatziki sauce for a refreshing dip that enhances the overall experience. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any gathering and will surely impress your guests.

Spanakopita Triangles: Introduce your guests to the delightful world of spanakopita triangles. These crispy, golden pastries are filled with a rich mixture of spinach, feta cheese, and herbs. The flaky phyllo dough encases the filling, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Serve them warm, straight from the oven, and watch as your guests savor each bite. These delectable triangles are a fantastic way to start any meal and are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

Desserts:

Baklava: Imagine layers of phyllo dough brushed with butter, filled with a mixture of chopped nuts and spices. Baked to a golden perfection, then drenched in a honey syrup infused with citrus zest and cinnamon. This dessert is a delightful combination of crunch and sweetness, perfect to end your meal on a high note.

Galaktoboureko: Envision a creamy custard made from semolina and milk, encased in layers of crispy phyllo dough. Baked until golden and then soaked in a lemon-infused syrup. The contrast between the silky custard and the crunchy phyllo creates a textural delight that will leave your taste buds craving for more.

Why trust this Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe:

This Greek lemon chicken recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking a flavorful and easy-to-make dish. The combination of lemon juice and olive oil in the marinade ensures the chicken is tender and juicy, while the garlic and oregano add a burst of Mediterranean flavor. The tomato relish with kalamata olives provides a fresh and tangy contrast, making each bite a delightful experience. Trust this recipe for its simplicity and the authentic taste it delivers.

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FAQ:

How long should I marinate the chicken?

I recommend marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but you can go up to 4 hours if you have the time. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work just as well. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time since thighs might take a bit longer to cook through.

What can I use if I don't have a grill or grill pan?

No worries! You can use a regular skillet or even bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until it's cooked through.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you don't have a meat thermometer, you can cut into the thickest part of the chicken to check if the juices run clear.

Can I make the tomato relish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the tomato relish up to 4 hours in advance. Just keep it in the fridge until you're ready to serve.