Easy Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe | Fresh Mediterranean Flavor

I recently tried making Greek Lemon Chicken, and it turned out to be a delightful twist on my usual chicken dishes. The marinade, with its zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, infuses the chicken with a fresh, Mediterranean flavor.

I served it alongside roasted vegetables, and the combination was absolutely delicious. If you enjoy flavorful poultry dishes, you may also love trying this healthy easy pistachio crusted chicken recipe. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal.

Ingredients

8 bone-in chicken thighs: Bone-in chicken thighs are perfect for this recipe as they stay juicy and tender while cooking.
⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness and enhances the marinade’s flavors.
¼ cup lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice provides the bright, tangy base for the marinade.
4 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic adds depth and a savory note to the dish.
1 tablespoon dried oregano: Oregano is a staple in Greek cuisine, offering a warm, earthy flavor.
2 teaspoons dried thyme: Thyme complements the oregano, adding a subtle herbal aroma.
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard helps emulsify the marinade and adds a mild tanginess.
2 teaspoons kosher salt: Kosher salt is ideal for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper provides a little heat and complexity to the dish.

Note: This recipe serves 4.

Variations

There are plenty of ways to customize this recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free.
Sugar-Free: No sugar is used in this recipe.
Flavor-Enhancing Add-Ins: Consider adding a tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley or a sprinkle of feta cheese on top before serving for added flavor.

For more ideas, you can explore other dinner recipes that fit a variety of tastes and occasions.

Cooking Time

Here’s a quick breakdown of the time required to prepare and cook this flavorful chicken.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes to 2 hours 20 minutes

Equipment You Need

Mixing bowl: for preparing the marinade
Whisk: to blend the marinade ingredients
Measuring spoons: for accurate ingredient quantities
Skillet or grill pan: for cooking the chicken
Tongs: to handle the chicken during cooking
Serving platter: for presenting the dish

How to Make Easy Greek Lemon Chicken?

Follow these simple steps to prepare this flavorful Greek lemon chicken.

Step 1: Make the Marinade

In a small bowl, stir together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This marinade will infuse the chicken with Mediterranean flavors, balancing tangy, savory, and herbal notes.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken thighs to a large bowl and pour the marinade over them. Toss to ensure the chicken is fully coated. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to marinate for 1 to 2 hours (and up to 8 hours) for the best flavor. The longer the chicken marinates, the more the flavors will infuse into the meat.

Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Transfer the marinated chicken thighs to a baking dish and pour any remaining marinade over the chicken. This helps keep the chicken moist and enhances the flavor during baking.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and registers 175°F (80°C) on an instant-read thermometer. For extra crispy skin, baste the chicken a few times while cooking and, if desired, turn on the top oven broiler during the last 2 to 3 minutes of cooking.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Once the chicken is cooked through and golden brown, remove it from the oven. For a nice touch, garnish with lemon slices before serving, especially if you’re preparing this dish for a dinner party. The result will be a visually appealing and flavorful dish ready to serve!

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

These tips will help you elevate your Greek lemon chicken even further.

I recommend using fresh lemon juice for the best flavor; bottled lemon juice can be too tart.
If you have time, marinate the chicken overnight to enhance the flavor.
For a smoky flavor, consider grilling the chicken over charcoal.
I find that serving this dish with a side of tzatziki sauce complements the flavors beautifully.
If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.

If Mediterranean-style meals excite your palate, you might also want to try a classic Tuscan chicken recipe for another delicious variation.

How to Serve Easy Greek Lemon Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with roasted potatoes, a Greek salad, or a side of quinoa for a wholesome meal. For an authentic touch, drizzle some tzatziki sauce over the chicken before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges to add color and freshness to the plate.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a general overview of the nutritional content per serving:

Calories: Approximately 250-300 kcal
Protein: 25-30g
Carbohydrates: 2-5g
Fat: 15-20g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Here’s how you can store and reheat the dish for later:

Make Ahead: You can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken up to 2 hours in advance.
Storage: Store any leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze the marinated chicken (before cooking) in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or in the microwave in 30-second intervals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This Greek Lemon Chicken is a delightful dish that offers a burst of Mediterranean flavors. Here are a few reasons why it’s a must-try:

Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
Flavorful Marinade: The combination of lemon, garlic, and herbs creates a tangy and aromatic profile.
Versatile: Pairs well with various sides, making it adaptable to different tastes.
Healthy Option: Lean chicken thighs provide a good source of protein without being overly fatty.
Meal Prep Friendly: Great for making ahead and enjoying leftovers throughout the week.

Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a taste of Greece in the comfort of your home!

Ash Tyrrell