Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe

There's nothing quite like the bright, zesty aroma of Greek Lemon Chicken filling your kitchen. This dish perfectly balances the tanginess of lemon, the earthiness of oregano, and the savory depth of garlic for a meal that feels like a Mediterranean getaway.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe when looking for a way to recreate a dish I loved from a quaint Greek taverna. The simplicity of the ingredients and the vibrant flavors made it an instant favorite in my home. Whether you're serving it for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, it's sure to impress.

Why You'll Love This Greek Lemon Chicken

Get ready to discover your new go-to recipe for effortless Mediterranean-inspired cooking. Greek Lemon Chicken is as flavorful as it is easy to prepare, making it perfect for cooks of all skill levels.

First, this recipe delivers a punch of flavor without requiring hours in the kitchen. Marinated in a blend of fresh lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and olive oil, the chicken soaks up all the goodness before being roasted to golden perfection.

It's also a fantastic crowd-pleaser. Whether you're feeding a picky eater or someone with a sophisticated palate, the bright and savory flavors will win everyone over. Pair it with roasted vegetables or a Greek salad for a complete meal.

Another reason to love this dish is how healthy it is. Using lean chicken thighs or breasts and simple, wholesome ingredients, it fits seamlessly into many diets, including low-carb or keto. Plus, the marinade doubles as a sauce, adding an extra burst of flavor without extra effort.

Finally, it’s adaptable. You can prepare it ahead of time, making it a stress-free choice for entertaining or meal prep. Just marinate the chicken in the morning, and you’re set for a delicious dinner by evening.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Greek Lemon Chicken lies in its simple, fresh ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating its signature flavor.

Chicken: You can use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or boneless breasts, depending on your preference. Bone-in thighs stay moist and tender, while breasts offer a lighter option.

Lemons: Fresh lemon juice is essential for this recipe. It brightens the dish and adds that tangy, citrusy flavor. Avoid bottled lemon juice for the best results.

Olive Oil: A good-quality extra virgin olive oil not only enhances the marinade but also helps the chicken brown beautifully during roasting.

Garlic: Minced fresh garlic infuses the dish with a bold, savory aroma. If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove or two!

Oregano: Greek-style dried oregano is the key to achieving authentic Mediterranean flavor. You can also mix in fresh oregano if you have it on hand.

You’ll also need salt, pepper, and a touch of paprika for seasoning. For equipment, a roasting pan or oven-safe skillet works perfectly, and a whisk or fork will help blend the marinade.

How To Make This Greek Lemon Chicken

Making this Greek Lemon Chicken is delightfully straightforward. Here’s how you can bring this Mediterranean classic to life in your kitchen.

Start by preparing the marinade. In a medium bowl, whisk together freshly squeezed lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. The aroma of the marinade alone will have you excited for dinner!

Place your chicken pieces in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though longer (up to 24 hours) will deepen the flavors.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the marinated chicken in a roasting pan, skin-side up if using bone-in pieces. Drizzle a bit of the remaining marinade over the top for extra flavor.

Roast the chicken in the oven for about 35-45 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken pieces. You’ll know it’s ready when the skin is golden and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). For a final touch, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes to caramelize the edges.

While the chicken roasts, prepare any sides you’d like to serve. Once it’s done, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute. Total cooking and preparation time is just over an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or leisurely weekends.

Storage Options

Greek Lemon Chicken is just as enjoyable the next day, making it a great option for leftovers.

To store, place cooled chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to freeze it, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. The chicken will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating is simple. For the best results, warm the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also microwave it, though this may slightly affect the texture of the crispy skin.

Variations and Substitutions

The versatility of this recipe means you can tailor it to suit your tastes and dietary needs.

For a different protein, try using bone-in pork chops or salmon fillets. Adjust the roasting time accordingly to avoid overcooking.

Add vegetables to the roasting pan for a one-pan meal. Potatoes, zucchini, and bell peppers soak up the flavors beautifully, creating a complete dish with minimal cleanup.

If you’re short on time, grill the marinated chicken instead of roasting it. The smoky char from the grill adds another layer of deliciousness.

Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to add variety to the dish. Each herb brings its own unique twist to the classic flavors.

Finally, if you love a bit of heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes into the marinade for a subtle kick.

No matter how you customize it, Greek Lemon Chicken is a recipe that’s sure to delight every time.

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