Greek Marinade Seasoning

There’s a little Greek restaurant we get to sneak away to on our busiest weeks — the kind of spot where you are sure to enjoy a freshly made meal. Their marinated chicken was unforgettable: boldly seasoned, perfectly tender, and infused with that sun-kissed Greek flavor you can smell before it even reaches the table.

For years, I wondered how they made something so simple taste so special.

Eventually, I realized it wasn’t complicated — it was the seasoning. Those classic Greek spices that seemed to cling to every bite: the oregano, the garlic, the lemony brightness, the warm peppery notes. So I started experimenting at home, and the result is this Greek dry seasoning marinade. You can toss this simple mix together in minutes, achieving the same bold, savory, citrusy flavor we loved so much. Instead of soaking in a liquid marinade, the chicken gets coated generously in this dry rub, greek yogurt and lemon, allowing the spices to melt into the meat as it cooks, creating a golden crust and rich, aromatic flavor.

Every time it hits the pan or the grill, it transports me right back to that cozy restaurant — no reservations needed. And now, it’s become a pantry staple in our home. Quick to mix, easy to store, and perfect for weeknights when you want big flavor without extra steps.

Close-up of a white bowl filled with grilled chicken chunks, garnished with spices, placed on a pinkish cloth. In the background, there is a blurred bowl of salad.

Recipe Card

Servings: 6 |

Time: 5 minutes

  • 4 tsp salt

    4 tsp garlic powder

    4 tsp dried oregano

    4 tsp dried basil

    2 tsp dried onion

    2 tsp black pepper

    2 tsp dried parsley

    2 tsp dried dill week

    2 tsp dried marjoram

    1 tsp dried thyme

    ½ tsp cinnamon

    ½ tsp ground nutmeg

    1. Mix all the ingredients together in a small mixing bowl.

    2. Using a funnel, transfer to an air tight container or jar.

    3. Store in a dry place for up to 6 months.

  • Can substitute the marjoram with 1 tsp tarragon and 1 tsp cardamon.