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Greek Grilled Chicken Marinade Ingredients

We’ll talk about chicken below, but here are the ingredients you’ll need for the Greek marinade for grilled chicken:

• Greek yogurt – Use plain Greek yogurt, 2% or full fat if you can find it for best flavor.
• Garlic – Use fresh garlic cloves for best flavor or frozen garlic cubes for convenience.
• Lemon zest – Use a fresh lemon as we’re using the zest from it. Save the lemon juice for something else.
• Red wine vinegar – This gives the chicken great flavor, but you could also use apple cider vinegar or white balsamic vinegar.
• Olive oil – Use high quality olive oil for best flavor.
• Oregano – Use dried oregano, this gives the chicken classic Greek flavor.
• Sea salt

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I cook it to 185 degrees F instead of 165 degrees F?

So this is interesting and something I learned while researching grilled chicken thighs. While most chicken recipes are cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F, we’re actually cooking thighs and dark meat to 185 degrees F. This allows the higher fat and collagen content in thighs get a chance to “baste” the white meat, which makes it super juicy and flavorful. I’m a convert and you will be too!

What does Greek yogurt do to chicken?

Greek yogurt marinades help to create a juicy and tender chicken. “Harsher” lemon juice or vinegar based marinades work quickly, which can actually toughen meat up instead of making it tender.

The yogurt works a little slower, which creates a tender meat, as well as imparting delicious, savory flavor.

What cut of chicken can you use with this marinade?

You can marinate any cut of chicken in this Greek yogurt marinade. I’ve used drumsticks for this recipe, but it’s really up to you. I’ve also done chicken thighs which were amazing! The cooking time will vary based on cut, size, grill temperature, etc. so I recommend using an instant read meat thermometer but here is an estimated cooking time:

• Drumsticks – about 20-25 minutes
• Thighs – about 20-25 minutes
• Breasts – about 45 minutes
• Boneless and skinless chicken breasts – about 10 minutes

How long should you marinate chicken before grilling it?

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes if you have time. You can also marinate this grilled chicken Greek style for up to overnight. Some marinades will turn mushy if it’s marinated too long, but this doesn’t happen with yogurt marinades.

How to Serve Greek Chicken to the Whole Family

I get it, feeding kids can be tough! But following the Division of Responsibility and knowing your job and your child’s job makes it SO much more enjoyable. You’ll be able to feed your kids any meal, which will help ensure that they are eating a variety of nutritious foods – with plenty of play food sprinkled in. 😉

I think chicken drumsticks are a great option for kids and because this marinade is pretty mild, I think your kids will love it as much as mine. Be sure to serve the meal alongside a few items you know they will eat (milk, fruit, bread, etc.) and start them off with a small piece of chicken if they are unsure of it or if it’s a new food.

What to Serve with Greek Grilled Chicken Recipe

Serve this Greek yogurt grilled chicken with a simple side dish:

• Air Fryer Pita Bread
• Grilled Potatoes in Foil
• Grilled Vegetables
• Kale Apple Slaw
• Napa Cabbage Slaw
• Greek Chickpea Salad with Feta
• Classic Greek Cucumber Salad

More Easy Grilling Recipes

If you like this Greek marinated grilled chicken, you might also like some of these other easy grilling recipes:

• Easy Grilled Tilapia in Foil
• Grilled Salmon in Foil
• Grilled Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
• Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Salad

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