Zesty Greek Lemon Chicken

Experience the authentic taste of the Mediterranean with this incredibly flavorful Greek Chicken Recipe. Featuring succulent, marinated grilled chicken breasts, this dish is perfectly complemented by tender grilled zucchini and sweet corn, a refreshing homemade tzatziki sauce, and warm, lightly charred pita bread. It’s a complete and satisfying meal that transports your palate straight to the sun-drenched shores of Greece.

A plate featuring Greek chicken served with naan bread and a zucchini and corn salad, offering a delicious and flavor-packed meal.

author’s note

Better-Than-Takeout Greek Chicken for a Weeknight Feast!

There’s nothing quite like the vibrant flavors of Greek cuisine – fresh, zesty, and undeniably delicious. A few months ago, my husband and I stumbled upon a charming little Greek restaurant, and it quickly became our go-to spot. While he’s always been loyal to their incredible Steak Gyros, I found myself completely captivated by their lemon herb grilled chicken, especially when paired with their perfectly creamy tzatziki. The side dishes were equally impressive: simply grilled corn and zucchini, bursting with natural sweetness and a hint of smoky char. The combination was so utterly satisfying that I started to think, “I could absolutely recreate this magic at home, making it even quicker and easier for busy weeknights!” And so, this Greek Chicken Recipe was born. It captures all those fresh, herbaceous, and grilled flavors we adore, proving that restaurant-quality Greek food is well within reach in your own kitchen.

Making tzatziki sauce by combining the ingredients until smooth, capturing the preparation of this flavorful and creamy sauce.

Contents

Key Ingredients for Authentic Greek Chicken

Crafting this delightful Greek chicken meal requires a handful of fresh, simple ingredients, each playing a vital role in building that authentic Mediterranean flavor profile. Here’s a closer look at what makes this recipe truly special:

Chicken: The star of our dish! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for grilling, offering a lean protein option. However, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can also be used for an even juicier result, bringing a richer flavor to this Greek chicken recipe.
Honey: A touch of natural sweetness from honey beautifully balances the tangy lemon and savory herbs in the marinade. It also helps achieve a lovely caramelization on the grill, enhancing the chicken’s exterior.
Dried Oregano: This is the quintessential Greek herb. Dried oregano provides that distinct, earthy, and aromatic flavor that is instantly recognizable as Mediterranean. Don’t skimp on quality here; a good oregano makes all the difference.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is crucial for adding depth and a pungent aroma to both the chicken marinade and the tzatziki sauce, infusing every bite with robust flavor.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is a double-threat ingredient. It brightens the overall flavor of the chicken, providing a zesty kick, and its acidity also acts as a natural tenderizer for the chicken, ensuring a moist and succulent texture.
Olive Oil: A cornerstone of Mediterranean cooking, extra virgin olive oil serves multiple purposes. In the marinade, it helps emulsify the other ingredients and carries the flavors deep into the chicken. When grilling, it prevents sticking and adds a rich, fruity undertone.
Fresh Vegetables (Zucchini & Corn): These seasonal vegetables are grilled to perfection, offering a sweet and tender counterpoint to the savory chicken. Their natural flavors are enhanced by the smoky grill, creating a light and refreshing side.
Greek Yogurt (Full-Fat): For the creamiest, most authentic tzatziki, full-fat plain Greek yogurt is highly recommended. Its thick texture and tangy profile are essential for the sauce’s characteristic richness.
Cucumber: Grated cucumber forms the refreshing base of the tzatziki, adding a cool crispness that contrasts wonderfully with the grilled elements of the meal.
Pita Bread: Warm, soft pita bread is the perfect accompaniment for soaking up all the delicious juices and sauces. Grilling it briefly adds a lovely char and warmth.

Chicken being added to a bowl filled with a flavorful greek chicken marinade, showcasing the marinating process that enhances the taste of this recipe.

Mastering the Art of Greek Chicken: Step-by-Step Guide

Creating this Greek chicken feast is simpler than you might think. By following these clear steps, you’ll achieve restaurant-quality results right in your own backyard or kitchen.

Prepare and Marinate the Chicken: Start by preparing your chicken breasts or thighs. If using breasts, it’s beneficial to halve them horizontally and then pound them to an even thickness. This ensures consistent cooking and allows the marinade to penetrate more effectively. In a spacious bowl or a large resealable plastic bag, whisk together the vibrant marinade ingredients: honey, dried oregano, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Add the prepared chicken to the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for a minimum of 20-30 minutes to absorb those wonderful Greek flavors. Avoid marinating for much longer than an hour, as the acid in the lemon juice can begin to “cook” the chicken, altering its texture.
Craft the Refreshing Tzatziki Sauce: While your chicken is marinating, prepare the essential tzatziki sauce. Grate a fresh English cucumber using the large holes of a grater. To prevent a watery sauce, place the grated cucumber on a few layers of paper towels or a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. Transfer the drained cucumber to a medium-sized bowl. Stir in the creamy plain Greek yogurt (full-fat for best results), finely minced garlic, a splash of red wine vinegar, a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a drizzle of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until all ingredients are well combined and smooth. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the tzatziki until you’re ready to serve, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Preheat the Grill and Prep Vegetables: Preheat your grill to a medium heat, aiming for around 400°F (200°C). While the grill heats, prepare your zucchini and corn. Halve the zucchini lengthwise and shuck the corn. Drizzle both vegetables generously with olive oil and sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper, rubbing the seasoning into all sides. This simple preparation enhances their natural sweetness and encourages a lovely char. Once the grill is hot, clean the grates thoroughly with a wire brush and then lightly oil them to prevent sticking. A paper towel soaked in vegetable oil and held with tongs works perfectly for this.
Grill to Perfection: Carefully place the marinated chicken on one side of the preheated and oiled grill grates. Arrange the prepared zucchini halves and corn on the cob on the other side. Grill the chicken for approximately 4-5 minutes per side, or until an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) is reached. Remember that carryover cooking will bring it to the safe temperature of 165°F (74°C) as it rests. Grill the zucchini for 3-5 minutes per side, flipping once, until tender-crisp with attractive grill marks. Rotate the corn every 3-4 minutes for about 10 minutes total, until it’s bright yellow and lightly charred. Once cooked, remove all finished ingredients to a plate and loosely cover with foil to keep warm and allow the chicken to rest. Briefly clean the grill grates again with a brush, then add a lemon half (cut side down) and the pita bread. Grill the lemon for 2-3 minutes until lightly charred, which sweetens its juice. Grill the pita bread for 30 seconds to 1 minute per side, just until it’s warm, soft, and lightly toasted.
Assemble the Zucchini Corn Salad: While the chicken rests under the foil, prepare the fresh zucchini and corn salad. Cut the grilled zucchini into convenient half-moon shapes, about 1/2-inch thick. Carefully cut the kernels off the grilled corn cobs. Combine the zucchini and corn in a mixing bowl with finely minced shallot. Drizzle with about 1/2 tablespoon of fresh olive oil, then squeeze the juice from the grilled lemon directly into the bowl. Season the salad generously with salt and pepper to taste (approximately 1/4 teaspoon of each). Toss all ingredients gently to combine, ensuring every piece is coated with the vibrant dressing. Tear the warmed pita bread into bite-sized pieces for easy serving.
Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the perfectly grilled Greek chicken on plates alongside generous portions of the fresh and flavorful zucchini and corn salad. Serve with the warm, torn pita bread and a generous dollop of the cool, creamy tzatziki sauce. This complete meal offers a delightful medley of textures and tastes, making it an instant family favorite.

Meat, corn, and lemon slices on the grill, capturing the grilling process, followed by the juicing of the lemon and adding the juice to the salad.

Quick Tips for Greek Chicken Success

Achieving the best possible Greek chicken meal is easy with a few simple techniques and considerations. These tips will help you maximize flavor and ensure a perfectly cooked dish every time:

Effortless Marinating with a Zip-Top Bag: For the easiest cleanup and most efficient marinating, always opt for a gallon-sized resealable zip-top bag. This allows you to combine all your marinade ingredients directly in the bag, then add the chicken, seal it, and massage the marinade into the meat without any mess. It ensures maximum contact between the chicken and the flavorful mixture, guaranteeing a thoroughly seasoned result.
Even Cooking is Key: To achieve uniformly cooked and tender chicken, it’s crucial to slice or pound your chicken breasts to an even thickness. This prevents some parts from drying out while others are still cooking, leading to a more pleasant eating experience. Aim for approximately ¾ to 1-inch thickness throughout each piece.
Prioritize Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients: The beauty of Greek cuisine lies in its fresh, vibrant flavors. For this Greek chicken recipe, using real, freshly squeezed lemon juice (not bottled concentrate) and full-fat Greek yogurt for the tzatziki will make a noticeable difference in taste and texture. Fresh garlic and oregano also contribute significantly to the overall authentic profile of the dish.
Don’t Rush the Tzatziki Chill Time: While it’s tempting to serve immediately, allowing the tzatziki sauce to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or even longer) before serving allows the flavors of cucumber, garlic, lemon, and yogurt to meld and deepen. This simple step elevates the sauce from good to truly exceptional.
Rest Your Chicken: After grilling, it’s vital to let the chicken rest under foil for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a much more tender and moist chicken. Cutting into it too soon will cause those precious juices to run out.

The Perfect Accompaniment: Grilled Corn and Zucchini Salad

A bowl of grilled corn and zucchini salad, a flavorful side dish accompanying the greek chicken recipe, highlighting the vibrant colors and delicious ingredients.

Storage and Meal Prep

Refrigerate for Freshness: To enjoy your Greek Chicken for days, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This ensures the chicken, salad, and tzatziki maintain their delicious flavors and textures.
Freeze for Future Meals: For longer storage, the grilled chicken can be frozen. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator before gently reheating. Note that the zucchini corn salad and tzatziki are best enjoyed fresh and are not recommended for freezing.

More Delicious Chicken Recipes: Expand Your Culinary Horizons

If you’ve loved the vibrant flavors and ease of this Greek Chicken recipe, you’re in for a treat! Here are a few more fantastic chicken dishes from our collection that are perfect for any occasion, from quick weeknight dinners to impressive weekend meals. Each recipe brings unique flavors and cooking styles to your table.

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Greek Chicken Bowls

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Chicken Stir Fry

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Pineapple Chicken And Rice

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Chicken Ramen

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Greek Chicken Recipe: Your New Favorite Mediterranean Meal

By Chelsea Lords

This Greek Chicken Recipe offers a truly delightful and flavor-packed feast. Each bite features juicy, tender chicken marinated in a zesty lemon-herb blend, perfectly grilled alongside seasonal zucchini and sweet corn. Served with a creamy, cooling homemade tzatziki and warm pita bread, it’s a wholesome, satisfying, and easy-to-make meal that brings the tastes of Greece right to your dinner table. Ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests, this dish is both healthy and incredibly delicious.

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Marinating Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Essential Equipment for Grilling Success

Grill: A charcoal or gas grill is perfect for achieving that signature smoky flavor and beautiful char on the chicken and vegetables. (Recommended Grill)
Large Resealable Bag: Ideal for marinating the chicken evenly and minimizing cleanup.
Meat Mallet or Heavy Pan: Useful for pounding chicken breasts to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
Box Grater or Microplane: For finely grating cucumber for the tzatziki and mincing garlic.
Mixing Bowls: A few bowls of various sizes for preparing the marinade, tzatziki, and salad.
Tongs: Essential for safely flipping chicken and vegetables on the grill.
Instant-Read Thermometer: The most accurate way to ensure your chicken is cooked to a safe and juicy 165°F (74°C).

Ingredients for a Flavorful Greek Feast

For the Zesty Chicken Marinade

1.8 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 2–3 medium breasts, or substitute with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra juiciness)
1 tablespoon honey (adds a subtle sweetness and helps with caramelization)
2 teaspoons dried oregano (the essential Greek herb for authentic flavor)
3 to 5 cloves garlic (finely minced, for a pungent aroma and deep flavor)
2 lemons (freshly squeezed juice for brightness and tenderizing)
1/4 cup olive oil (extra virgin for rich flavor in the marinade)
1 teaspoon salt (to enhance all the flavors)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground preferred)

For the Vibrant Zucchini & Corn Salad

2 small zucchini (about 13 ounces total, sliced for grilling)
2 corn on the cob (about 14 ounces total, shucked for grilling)
1 tablespoon shallot (finely minced, adds a delicate onion flavor)
Olive oil (for drizzling vegetables before grilling, and a touch in the salad)
2 to 4 pitas (for serving, ideally warmed and lightly grilled)

For the Creamy Tzatziki Sauce

1/4 of 1 large English cucumber (about 1/2 cup once grated and moisture squeezed out, for a cool, crisp base)
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat for the best creamy texture and tangy flavor)
1 teaspoon minced garlic (freshly minced for pungent flavor)
1-1/2 teaspoons red wine vinegar (adds a sharp, complementary tang)
1 large lemon (divided into 2 halves: one for grilling to sweeten its juice for the salad, one for juicing for the tzatziki)
1-1/2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin for richness in the sauce)
Salt and freshly ground pepper (to taste for the tzatziki, approximately 1/4 teaspoon salt and a pinch of pepper)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Greek Chicken Perfection

1. Prepare and Marinate the Chicken: Begin by taking each boneless, skinless chicken breast and carefully halving it horizontally to create thinner cutlets. Place these chicken pieces between two sheets of plastic wrap (to prevent any splatter) and, using a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy frying pan, gently pound them to an even thickness – aiming for about ¾ to 1 inch thick. Pat the chicken dry thoroughly with a paper towel. Now, place the chicken into a large resealable plastic bag. In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey, dried oregano, minced garlic, ¼ cup of fresh lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined. Pour this vibrant marinade over the chicken in the bag. Seal the bag, ensuring all air is expelled, and massage the marinade into the breasts to coat them completely. Refrigerate for a minimum of 20-30 minutes. Be mindful not to marinate for much longer than an hour, as the acidity from the lemon can begin to “cook” the chicken, leading to a less desirable texture.
2. Craft the Refreshing Tzatziki: While the chicken marinates, it’s the perfect time to prepare your cooling tzatziki sauce. Grate a portion of an English cucumber using the large holes of a grater. To ensure your tzatziki isn’t watery, line a small bowl with a few sheets of paper towels (or a clean, thin kitchen towel) and place the grated cucumber on top. Firmly squeeze out as much excess moisture as you possibly can. Transfer the thoroughly drained cucumber to a medium mixing bowl. Add the full-fat plain Greek yogurt, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice from one of your lemons (and optionally, ½ teaspoon of lemon zest for extra zing), olive oil, and season with ¼ teaspoon salt and a pinch of pepper, or to your personal taste. Mix all ingredients until well combined and smooth. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the tzatziki until you’re ready to serve, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen.
3. Prepare Grill and Vegetables: Preheat your grill to a steady medium heat, targeting a temperature of approximately 400°F (200°C). While the grill heats, prepare your vegetables for grilling. Halve the small zucchini lengthwise. Shuck the corn on the cob, removing all silk. Drizzle both the zucchini halves and corn generously with olive oil, then lightly sprinkle them with salt and pepper. Rub the oil and seasoning into all sides of the zucchini and corn to ensure even coating. Set them aside. Once your grill is hot, carefully remove the chicken from its marinade, discarding any remaining marinade. Thoroughly clean your preheated grill grates with a wire brush, then lightly oil them. A common and effective method is to drench a rolled-up paper towel in vegetable oil, grip it with tongs, and rub it across the hot grates.
4. Grill Chicken, Veggies, and Pita: Place the chicken pieces on one side of the grill. Arrange the zucchini and corn on the other side. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, or until an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) is reached with an instant-read thermometer (it will reach 165°F / 74°C after resting). Grill the zucchini for 3-5 minutes per side, flipping only once, until they are tender-crisp and have appealing grill marks. Grill the corn for about 10 minutes total, rotating it every 3-4 minutes, until it’s bright yellow and slightly charred in spots. Once the chicken, zucchini, and corn are cooked, transfer them to a clean plate and cover loosely with foil to keep them warm and allow the chicken to rest. Give the grill grates a quick clean with your brush again. Then, place the remaining lemon half (cut-side down) and the pita bread onto the grill. Grill the lemon for 2-3 minutes until it’s lightly charred and caramelized. Grill the pita bread for just 30 seconds to 1 minute per side, or until it’s warm, soft, and lightly toasted.
5. Assemble the Zucchini Corn Salad: While the chicken continues to rest under the foil, proceed with assembling your vibrant salad. Cut the grilled zucchini into appealing half-moon slices, approximately ½-inch thick. Carefully cut the sweet corn kernels off the cobs. Place the zucchini and corn in a mixing bowl along with the finely minced shallot. Drizzle the salad with about ½ tablespoon of fresh olive oil. Take your grilled lemon half and squeeze its now-sweetened juice directly over the vegetables in the bowl. Season the salad generously with salt and pepper to taste (I typically use about ¼ teaspoon of each). Toss all the ingredients gently to combine, ensuring the flavors are well distributed. Tear the warmed pita bread into convenient bite-sized pieces for easy serving.
6. Serve Your Greek Feast: Arrange the perfectly grilled, tender Greek chicken alongside generous portions of the fresh and flavorful zucchini and corn salad. Provide the warm, torn pita bread and a substantial dollop of the cool, creamy tzatziki sauce on the side. This complete meal is not only visually appealing but also a symphony of fresh, zesty, and savory flavors, making it a truly unforgettable dining experience. Enjoy your homemade Greek feast!

Recipe Notes and Tips for Best Results

Storage and Reheating: To ensure maximum freshness and flavor, store any leftover Greek Chicken and salad components in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating the chicken, a skillet on medium-low heat or a quick warm-up in the oven works best to retain moisture. The zucchini corn salad and tzatziki are best enjoyed fresh and chilled; do not reheat them.
Freezing Instructions: The grilled chicken can be frozen for longer storage. Wrap individual chicken breasts tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator before gently reheating. Freezing is not recommended for the tzatziki sauce or the zucchini corn salad, as their textures will degrade upon thawing.
Marinade Duration: While a quick 20-30 minute marinade is sufficient for great flavor, you can extend it up to 1 hour if preferred. However, due to the acidity of the lemon juice, avoid marinating the chicken for excessively long periods (e.g., overnight), as it can start to “cook” the protein and make the chicken tough.
Pita Bread Variations: If you don’t have pita bread, warm naan bread or even crusty sourdough bread can make a delicious substitute for soaking up the juices and tzatziki.
Add Fresh Herbs: For an extra burst of freshness, garnish the finished dish with chopped fresh parsley or dill, especially over the tzatziki.

Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and is provided as an estimate. It should only be used as an approximation and can vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

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