Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe

There's nothing like the tangy, savory aroma of Greek Lemon Chicken filling your kitchen. This dish combines zesty lemon, aromatic herbs, and tender chicken, all roasted to golden perfection. It's a simple yet elegant meal that brings the bright, bold flavors of the Mediterranean straight to your table.

I first discovered Greek Lemon Chicken while vacationing in Santorini, where every bite felt like a burst of sunshine. Now, this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen – perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties alike. Let me show you why it's such a crowd-pleaser!

Why You'll Love This Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe

Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and fuss-free recipe. Greek Lemon Chicken is everything you want in a meal: vibrant, satisfying, and effortless to prepare.

First, it’s packed with flavor. The combination of fresh lemon juice, garlic, and oregano creates a marinade that infuses every bite with a perfect balance of brightness and depth.

Second, it’s wonderfully versatile. This recipe works just as well with bone-in chicken thighs, drumsticks, or even a whole spatchcocked chicken. You can customize the recipe to suit your preferences or what’s available in your kitchen.

Another reason to love this dish is its simplicity. You’ll only need a handful of pantry staples to create a meal that tastes like you spent hours on it.

Finally, it’s a one-pan wonder. The chicken roasts alongside potatoes and onions, soaking up all the delicious juices, making cleanup a breeze.

Ready to dive in? Let’s start with the star ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Greek Lemon Chicken lies in its fresh, simple ingredients. Every component contributes to the dish's bold, vibrant flavor profile.

Chicken: For the best results, use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks. The skin crisps up beautifully, while the bone helps keep the meat juicy and tender.

Lemon: Fresh lemon juice is non-negotiable here. It provides the signature tanginess and brightness that define the dish. Don’t forget to zest the lemons before juicing – the zest adds an extra layer of citrusy aroma.

Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for this recipe. Thinly sliced or minced, it blends into the marinade and infuses the chicken and potatoes with its earthy flavor.

Herbs: Dried oregano is a classic Greek herb that pairs perfectly with lemon and garlic. You can also add a pinch of thyme or rosemary for added depth.

Potatoes and Onions: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal because they roast to a creamy texture inside while crisping up on the outside. Onions add sweetness and complement the tangy marinade.

Olive Oil: A high-quality extra-virgin olive oil ties everything together, ensuring the chicken stays moist and the vegetables roast to perfection.

Before we begin, grab a large baking dish or sheet pan. You’ll need enough space to arrange the chicken and vegetables in a single layer.

How To Make This Greek Lemon Chicken

Creating this Greek Lemon Chicken is easier than you think. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a stunning dish ready in no time.

Start by preparing the marinade. In a bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. The marinade should taste bright and slightly tangy, with a hint of herbal earthiness.

Place your chicken pieces in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.

While the chicken marinates, prepare the potatoes and onions. Cut the potatoes into wedges and slice the onions into thick rings. Toss them in a bowl with the remaining marinade until well coated.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the potatoes and onions in a single layer on a baking dish, leaving space for the chicken. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it skin-side up among the vegetables.

Roast for about 40-50 minutes, turning the potatoes once halfway through. The chicken is done when the skin is golden and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving. The juices will redistribute, making every bite extra juicy and flavorful.

Storage Options

This Greek Lemon Chicken stores beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.

For refrigeration, place the chicken and vegetables in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days.

If you’d like to freeze the dish, transfer it to a freezer-safe container once cooled. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken and vegetables in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is a wonderful canvas for creativity. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

• Swap the chicken for salmon fillets or shrimp for a lighter, seafood-inspired version. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Add a handful of Kalamata olives and crumbled feta to the roasting pan for an extra burst of Mediterranean flavor.
• Use sweet potatoes instead of Yukon Gold for a slightly sweeter twist.
• Mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added color and nutrition.
• Replace dried oregano with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a fresher, vibrant taste.

No matter how you customize it, Greek Lemon Chicken is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Experiment with your favorite ingredients, and let the Mediterranean sunshine inspire your cooking!

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