If you love vibrant, flavorful dishes that transport you to the sunny Mediterranean, this Greek Marinated Grilled Chicken Recipe is an absolute must-try. The tender chicken, soaked in a tangy yogurt and red wine vinegar marinade infused with garlic and oregano, grills up perfectly juicy with a beautiful char. Every bite bursts with authentic Greek flavors that are both comforting and refreshing. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to share with friends at your next barbecue.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the foundation for making this Greek Marinated Grilled Chicken Recipe shine. Each element is straightforward but essential, blending to create a marinade that tenderizes the chicken while packing in that unmistakable bright, herbal taste.
- 3 pounds chicken drumsticks: Perfect for grilling, these have great flavor and stay juicy under high heat.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Helps keep the marinade smooth and adds richness while promoting a beautiful sear on the grill.
- 2 tablespoons plain yogurt: Tenderizes the chicken and adds a creamy tang that balances the acidity.
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar: Gives the marinade a lovely zing and cuts through the richness.
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic: Infuses the chicken with unmistakable savory depth.
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano: A key Greek herb that delivers earthy and aromatic notes.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Elevates all the flavors while helping the chicken retain moisture.
How to Make Greek Marinated Grilled Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, plain yogurt, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, and kosher salt. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and well blended. This marinade is your ticket to juicy, flavorful chicken with that signature Greek flair.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken drumsticks in a large bowl or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure every piece is evenly coated. Cover the bowl or seal the bag, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or even better, overnight. This resting time allows the flavors to deeply penetrate and tenderize the meat.
Step 3: Get Grilling
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Take the chicken out of the marinade and place the pieces directly on the grill. Cook for about 5 minutes on one side, then rotate the chicken to cook another 5 minutes, turning once more for a final 5 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through with juices running clear and reach an internal temperature between 170º and 180º Fahrenheit. Keep an eye on grill times as size can vary.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Once perfectly grilled, remove the chicken from the heat and cover it loosely with foil. Let it rest for 5 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is extra juicy and tender — the perfect finish to a splendid Greek Marinated Grilled Chicken Recipe.
How to Serve Greek Marinated Grilled Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes can brighten the plate and elevate the flavor profile. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or dill over the chicken for a pop of green and fresh herbal fragrance. Adding lemon wedges on the side invites guests to add a fresh squeeze of citrus that complements the marinade’s tang.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs wonderfully with traditional Greek sides like a crisp cucumber and tomato salad dressed in olive oil and lemon juice, or warm pita bread to soak up any juices. You can also serve it alongside a creamy tzatziki sauce or roasted Mediterranean vegetables for a wholesome, vibrant meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the grilled chicken on a bed of fluffy couscous or over a fresh Greek salad with kalamata olives and feta cheese. You can also thread the marinated chicken onto skewers with colorful bell peppers and onions for a festive, easy-to-eat presentation that’s perfect for gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Greek Marinated Grilled Chicken Recipe keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Store the chicken in an airtight container to preserve its flavors and moisture, making it easy to enjoy as a quick meal or snack.
Freezing
If you want to save the grilled chicken for longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen chicken will maintain its best quality for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken in an oven set at 350º Fahrenheit for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat pieces in a covered skillet over low heat to keep the chicken moist. Avoid microwaving as it can dry out the meat.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of drumsticks?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well too, but since they are leaner, be careful not to overcook them to keep the chicken tender and juicy. Adjust grilling time accordingly as breasts usually cook faster than drumsticks.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
While 30 minutes is sufficient for flavor, marinating for several hours or overnight intensifies the taste and tenderness. Just be sure not to marinate much longer than 24 hours as the yogurt’s acidity can start to break down the meat too much.
Can I make this in the oven instead of grilling?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 425º Fahrenheit and bake the marinated chicken on a lined sheet pan for about 25-30 minutes or until fully cooked. You can broil at the end to get that charred finish reminiscent of grilling.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, this Greek Marinated Grilled Chicken Recipe is not spicy. It relies on garlic, oregano, and tangy notes from yogurt and vinegar to create vibrant, savory flavor without heat. You can always add a pinch of chili flakes if you want a little kick!
What should I serve with the chicken for a complete meal?
Pair the grilled chicken with a salad of fresh vegetables, some warm pita or crusty bread, and a cool tzatziki sauce. These sides round out the meal with contrasting textures and flavors, making every bite exciting and satisfying.
Final Thoughts
This Greek Marinated Grilled Chicken Recipe is such a joy to make and even more rewarding to eat. It brings together simple, wholesome ingredients into a dish bursting with Mediterranean sunshine and bold flavors. Once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become one of your favorite go-to meals for effortless, delicious cooking. So fire up the grill and give it a go — your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Greek Marinated Grilled Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes (including 30 minutes marinating time)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Greek Marinated Grilled Chicken recipe features tender and flavorful drumsticks marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, yogurt, red wine vinegar, garlic, and oregano, then grilled to perfection. The marinade tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with classic Mediterranean flavors, making for a juicy and aromatic meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 3 pounds chicken drumsticks
Marinade
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, plain yogurt, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, and kosher salt. Mix thoroughly to create a smooth marinade.
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken drumsticks in a large bowl or resealable bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken and toss well to ensure each piece is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes; marinating overnight will enhance the flavor and tenderness.
- Preheat the grill: Prepare your grill by preheating it to medium-high heat, ensuring it is hot before cooking the chicken to achieve a nice char and even cooking.
- Grill the chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and place the drumsticks on the grill. Cook for 5 minutes, then rotate the drumsticks to another side and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Rotate one last time and grill for another 5 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach between 170º-180ºF, and the juices should run clear.
- Rest and serve: Remove the grilled chicken from heat and cover loosely with foil. Let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute before serving to ensure maximal juiciness.
Notes
- Marinating overnight yields the best flavor and tenderness but 30 minutes is sufficient if short on time.
- Ensure the grill is properly preheated to prevent sticking and to create a nice crust on the chicken.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness to avoid under or overcooking.
- The plain yogurt in the marinade helps tenderize the chicken and adds a subtle tang.
- This recipe is adaptable for chicken thighs or breasts but adjust grill times accordingly.
