why make this recipe
Greek Lemon Chicken gives bright, fresh flavor with very little work. It uses common ingredients like lemon, garlic, and oregano. You can make it on a weeknight or for guests. The dish cooks fast and tastes like a simple home-cooked meal.
introduction
This Greek Lemon Chicken has a clear, lemony taste and a golden skin. The mix of lemon, olive oil, oregano, and garlic keeps the chicken moist and tasty. It goes well with rice, salad, or a bowl, such as this Greek chicken bowls recipe.
how to make Greek Lemon Chicken
You make this dish by marinating the chicken in lemon, oil, and herbs, then baking it until the skin is brown and the meat is cooked through. The steps are simple: mix the marinade, coat the chicken, bake, and rest. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (75°C) for safety.
Ingredients :
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 lemons (juice and zest)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (for garnish, optional)
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Place chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve.
how to serve Greek Lemon Chicken
Serve with simple sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or a green salad. Spoon pan juices over the chicken for more flavor. For a citrus pairing idea, try a citrus fried chicken variation like the honey lemon and pepper fried chicken wings as a side or starter.
how to store Greek Lemon Chicken
Cool the chicken to room temperature for up to two hours, then store in an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm, or microwave in short bursts. For longer storage, freeze cooked pieces in a freezer bag for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Greek Lemon Chicken
- Bring the chicken to room temperature for 15–20 minutes before baking so it cooks evenly.
- Pat the skin dry for a crisper finish.
- Use a meat thermometer to reach 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part.
- Add lemon slices under the chicken for more lemon flavor.
- If you like a sauce, try pairing with a simple lemon butter version like this best lemon butter sauce for chicken.
- Let the chicken rest 5 minutes before serving to keep it juicy.
variation (if any)
- Add baby potatoes to the baking dish and roast with the chicken.
- Use boneless skinless chicken breasts; reduce bake time to avoid drying out.
- Toss in olives, capers, or sliced onions for more Mediterranean flavor.
- Add a splash of white wine to the marinade for depth.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Yes. Use boneless breasts and watch the time; bake until the center reads 165°F (75°C). They will cook faster.
Q: Can I marinate the chicken longer?
A: Yes. You can marinate for 30 minutes up to 4 hours. Too long in a very acidic mix can change the texture, so avoid overnight.
Q: How do I get crispy skin?
A: Pat the skin dry, use enough oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C). If needed, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end while watching closely.
Q: Is this safe for meal prep?
A: Yes. It stores well in the fridge for 3–4 days and keeps its flavor for quick meals.
Conclusion
For another tested version with clear steps you can follow, see Downshiftology’s Greek Lemon Chicken. If you want a recipe that includes potatoes roasted with the chicken, try Sip and Feast’s Easy Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes.
Greek Lemon Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken thighs Skin-on, bone-in recommended for best flavor.
- 2 pieces lemons (juice and zest) Use fresh lemons for better flavor.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil Extra virgin for richer taste.
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 cloves garlic (minced) Freshly minced for best flavor.
- to taste salt and pepper Adjust seasoning to preference.
- Fresh herbs (for garnish, optional) Such as parsley or oregano.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Place chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated.
Cooking
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve.
