Mediterranean Lemon Chicken

Name: Mediterranean Lemon Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 3 tablespoons olive oil; Juice and zest of 2 lemons; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: International Table

I absolutely love this Mediterranean Lemon Chicken recipe! The vibrant flavors of lemon, garlic, and herbs create a dish that is refreshing yet hearty. I often prepare this on busy weeknights because it comes together in no time. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe always impresses family and friends. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a side of couscous or roasted vegetables. Trust me, this dish will become a staple in your kitchen, bringing a taste of the Mediterranean right to your table.

Created by

Callie Morgan

Last updated on 2026-02-01T20:25:35.446Z

When I first tried making Mediterranean Lemon Chicken, I was in search of a dish that could bring sunshine to a dreary day. The combination of lemon zest, zesty herbs, and succulent chicken did just that! After experimenting with marinating times, I found that a quick 30-minute soak really lets the flavors shine through, making every bite burst with freshness.

During one memorable dinner with friends, I served this dish alongside a simple Greek salad, and everyone couldn't stop raving about it. They loved how the lemony marinade complemented the charred edges of the chicken. I recommend using fresh herbs for the best flavor; it truly makes a world of difference!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bright and zesty flavors that awaken your palate
Quick and easy recipe perfect for any night of the week
Versatile dish that pairs well with various sides

Unlocking the Flavors

The marinade for this Mediterranean Lemon Chicken is where the magic begins. Combining olive oil with lemon juice and zest creates a fresh, tangy base that not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with flavor. The garlic adds a robust aroma, while the oregano and thyme contribute herbal notes that are essential in Mediterranean cuisine. Whisking these ingredients until well combined results in a bright, glossy marinade that beautifully coats the chicken.

For best results, ensure the chicken is fully submerged in the marinade. If you need to make this dish but don’t have fresh lemons, you can substitute with store-bought lemon juice—just use half the amount, as it tends to be more concentrated. Keeping the marinade in the refrigerator for an extended period, if possible, enhances the flavor even more, so consider preparing it a few hours ahead of time.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken

Cooking the chicken at medium-high heat is crucial to develop a nice golden-brown crust while keeping the inside juicy. I recommend using a meat thermometer to accurately check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. If you don’t have one, look for the chicken to turn golden at the edges and for juices to run clear when pierced. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the breasts, so it’s good to keep an eye on them and flip once for even cooking.

If you prefer using a grill, preheat it until you see a good amount of heat wafting off the grates. For stovetop cooking, a cast-iron skillet is ideal as it maintains even heat well. Avoid overcrowding the pan—if necessary, cook in batches to allow proper searing and even cooking. This strategic approach prevents steaming, which can happen when too many pieces are crammed together.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your Mediterranean Lemon Chicken:

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
3 tablespoons olive oil
Juice and zest of 2 lemons
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Mediterranean Lemon Chicken:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. This marinade is the key to infusing flavor into our chicken.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s well coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

Cook the Chicken

Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Serve

Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides.

Pro Tips

For best results, use fresh lemon juice and zest. If you're short on time, you can marinate the chicken for just 10-15 minutes, but the longer you let it sit, the more flavorful it becomes.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving this Mediterranean Lemon Chicken, side dishes can elevate your meal to new heights. Pair it with fluffy couscous infused with lemon zest and herbs, or go for roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with olive oil. These options not only complement the chicken’s flavors but also add vibrant colors to your plate.

For a lighter option, consider a fresh salad with mixed greens, feta cheese, and olives, coated in a simple vinaigrette. This combination can balance the hearty nature of the chicken while keeping the meal fresh and vibrant. Feel free to get creative with the sides based on the season—grilled asparagus or a citrusy quinoa salad also work beautifully.

Make-Ahead and Storage

If you're looking to save time during busy weeknights, preparing the marinade and marinating the chicken the night before can make a significant difference. Store the chicken in the marinade in an airtight container in the refrigerator, which allows for deeper flavor penetration. This also means that on the day of cooking, all you'll need to do is grill or sauté, making dinner a breeze.

Cooked Mediterranean Lemon Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked chicken—just ensure it's well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil to maintain moisture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bone-in chicken instead?

Yes, bone-in chicken can be used. Just adjust the cooking time as it may take longer to cook through.

→ What should I serve with Mediterranean Lemon Chicken?

It pairs wonderfully with couscous, quinoa, or a side of roasted vegetables.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! The marinated chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.