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Easy Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe
Ash Tyrrell

Easy Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe

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.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients Method Notes

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.

Method
 

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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!

Notes

  • 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.