Greek Lemon Chicken

Introduction

This Greek Lemon Chicken is a Mediterranean classic that combines tender, juicy chicken with bold flavors of lemon, garlic, and herbs. It’s a simple yet sophisticated dish packed with fresh, vibrant ingredients, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner or an elegant dinner party. The combination of zesty lemon, fragrant oregano, and rich olive oil creates a marinade so flavorful that every bite bursts with aromatic delight.

I still remember the first time I made this dish; the citrusy aroma mixed with the warmth of garlic and herbs filled the kitchen, making it impossible to wait until dinner was served. Paired with roasted vegetables, a fluffy bed of rice, or a crisp Greek salad, it felt like a mini escape to the Aegean coastline.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility and simplicity. With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you can create a dish that feels both rustic and refined. The chicken turns out perfectly golden and tender, with a tangy, herbaceous flavor that lingers beautifully. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just want to shake up your weeknight dinner routine, this Greek Lemon Chicken is a guaranteed hit that brings a taste of Greece to your plate.

Perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners
• Meal prep
• Family gatherings
• Mediterranean-inspired meals
• Healthy eating

Why You’ll Love This Greek Lemon Chicken

Here’s why this Greek Lemon Chicken recipe will become a staple in your kitchen:

• Easy and Quick: The recipe requires simple ingredients and minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy days.
• Bold Mediterranean Flavors: The lemon, garlic, and oregano give the dish a bright, tangy, and herbaceous flavor.
• Juicy and Tender Chicken: The marinade keeps the chicken moist and tender during cooking.
• Versatile and Customizable: You can prepare this dish with chicken breasts, thighs, or drumsticks and pair it with your favorite sides.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein, fresh ingredients, and cooked with olive oil, it’s a wholesome meal that’s also good for you.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Marination Time: 30 minutes (optional but recommended)
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 35g, Carbs: 5g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Greek Lemon Chicken:

• 4 chicken thighs (bone-in and skin-on) or 4 chicken breasts
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 large lemons (zested and juiced)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup chicken broth or white wine (optional for basting)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Lemon: The star of the dish, lemon adds a refreshing tanginess that balances the rich flavors of the chicken and olive oil.
• Olive Oil: High-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the dish’s Mediterranean flavor and ensures the chicken stays moist.
• Garlic and Herbs: The combination of garlic, oregano, and thyme adds depth and aroma, perfectly complementing the citrus notes.
• Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and enhances the dish’s color.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Greek Lemon Chicken:

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for best results.
3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the Chicken:

4. Heat the Skillet: Heat a large, oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil.
5. Sear the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and sear it skin-side down for 3-4 minutes, until golden brown. Flip the chicken and sear the other side for 2 minutes.
6. Add the Marinade: Pour the reserved marinade and chicken broth (or white wine) into the skillet.
7. Bake in the Oven: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Baste the Chicken: Every 10 minutes, spoon some of the pan juices over the chicken to keep it moist and flavorful.

Serve:

9. Garnish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with your favorite sides.

How to Serve Greek Lemon Chicken

The Greek Lemon Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:

• Traditional: Serve with Greek salad, tzatziki sauce, and pita bread for an authentic Mediterranean meal.
• Over Rice or Couscous: Spoon the pan juices over rice or couscous for a flavorful accompaniment.
• With Vegetables: Pair with roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes for a healthy, balanced meal.
• As a Wrap: Shred the chicken and use it as a filling for wraps or gyros, adding lettuce, tomatoes, and tzatziki.

Additional Tips for Greek Lemon Chicken

Follow these tips for the best Greek Lemon Chicken:

• Marinate for Longer: While 30 minutes is sufficient, marinating the chicken for 2-4 hours (or overnight) intensifies the flavor.
• Use Bone-In Chicken: Bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks stay juicier than boneless cuts during cooking.
• Deglaze the Pan: Use white wine or chicken broth to deglaze the skillet after searing the chicken for extra flavor.
• Adjust the Citrus: For a more intense lemon flavor, add extra zest or a splash of lemon juice before serving.
• Don’t Skip the Basting: Basting the chicken with pan juices while baking ensures it stays moist and flavorful.

Recipe Variations for Greek Lemon Chicken

Here are 10 ways to customize this recipe:

1. Greek Lemon Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option.
2. Spicy Greek Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
3. Herb-Crusted Chicken: Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley, dill, and basil to the marinade.
4. Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes: Arrange potato wedges around the chicken before baking for a one-pan meal.
5. Grilled Lemon Chicken: Grill the chicken instead of baking for a smoky flavor.
6. Greek Lemon Chicken Wraps: Serve shredded chicken in wraps with fresh veggies and tzatziki.
7. Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs: Focus on garlic and lemon for a simpler flavor profile.
8. Sheet Pan Greek Chicken: Bake the chicken with chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and onions.
9. Keto Greek Chicken: Use chicken thighs and serve with a low-carb side like cauliflower rice.
10. Slow Cooker Greek Chicken: Marinate the chicken and cook it in a slow cooker for a hands-off method.

Freezing and Storage for Greek Lemon Chicken

• Freezing: Freeze raw, marinated chicken in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
• Storage: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Special Equipment for Greek Lemon Chicken

Here’s the equipment you’ll need:

• Cast iron skillet – Perfect for searing and roasting the chicken evenly while retaining heat.
• Oven thermometer – Ensures the oven temperature is accurate for perfectly cooked chicken.
• Citrus juicer or reamer – Efficiently extracts fresh lemon juice for the marinade and sauce.
• Microplane or zester – For finely grating lemon zest, adding bright citrus flavor.
• Meat thermometer – Helps check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it’s fully cooked (165°F/74°C).
• Garlic press – Quickly minces garlic for the marinade or sauce.
• Marinade container or zip-top bags – Ensures the chicken marinates evenly and absorbs all the flavors.
• Basting brush – Useful for coating the chicken with marinade or pan juices during cooking.
• Roasting pan with rack – Keeps the chicken elevated, allowing even airflow and crisp skin.
• Herb stripper – Makes it easy to remove thyme, oregano, or rosemary leaves for the recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions for Greek Lemon Chicken

1. Can I use boneless chicken?
   Yes, but adjust the cooking time as boneless cuts cook faster.
2. Can I grill instead of bake?
   Absolutely! Grill the chicken over medium heat for 6-8 minutes per side.
3. Can I make this dairy-free?
   The recipe is naturally dairy-free. Just ensure your chicken broth is as well.
4. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
   Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in a covered skillet with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
5. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes, simply double the ingredients and use two baking pans or a larger skillet.

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Conclusion

The Greek Lemon Chicken is a flavorful, versatile dish that brings the vibrant taste of the Mediterranean right to your table. This recipe combines tender, juicy chicken with a zesty lemon marinade infused with aromatic herbs and spices, creating a perfectly balanced meal that’s as delicious as it is wholesome.

Whether you’re preparing a casual family dinner, planning your weekly meal prep, or impressing guests with a stunning yet simple dish, Greek Lemon Chicken is sure to shine. Pair it with roasted vegetables, a fresh Greek salad, or fluffy pita bread to complete your Mediterranean feast.

This recipe is as easy to prepare as it is satisfying, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. Enjoy the bright, citrusy flavors and the fragrant, herbaceous notes that make this dish a timeless favorite. Bon appétit!