Zesty Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe: Bright Mediterranean Magic

Succulent Greek lemon chicken brings zesty Mediterranean magic to your dinner table.

Bright citrus notes dance alongside tender, herb-infused meat that promises a flavor adventure.

Marinated with care, this classic dish transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

Fragrant rosemary and garlic weave their aromatic spell through each juicy bite.

Mediterranean cooking traditions shine through in this uncomplicated yet elegant recipe.

Tangy lemons and olive oil create a harmonious backdrop for perfectly roasted chicken.

You’ll want to savor every single morsel of this delightful culinary experience.

Zesty Greek Chicken Styles to Consider

• Herb-Infused Mediterranean Chicken: Replace oregano and thyme with rosemary and basil for a different Mediterranean flavor profile.
• Spicy Citrus Chicken: Add red pepper flakes and swap lemon juice with lime juice for a zesty, spicy kick.
• Dairy-Free Herb Roast: Use coconut oil instead of olive oil to make the recipe suitable for dairy-free diets.
• Low-Carb Greek Chicken: Remove paprika and use fresh herb mix to create a lighter, low-carbohydrate version perfect for keto diets.

Pairings That Suit Greek Chicken Well

• Mediterranean Feast Companion: Serve alongside fluffy rice pilaf or roasted potatoes to soak up the delicious lemony juices.
• Fresh Salad Pairing: Create a crisp Greek salad with cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese to complement the zesty chicken.
• Wine and Dine: Pour a crisp white wine like Assyrtiko or Sauvignon Blanc to enhance the bright citrus flavors of the dish.
• Mezze Platter Magic: Accompany the chicken with tzatziki, olives, and warm pita bread for a complete Mediterranean dining experience.

How to Store Greek Chicken Correctly

• Store leftover chicken in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.
• Wrap chicken tightly in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Label with date for easy tracking.
• Preheat oven to 350F. Place chicken in baking dish, cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165F.
• Place chicken on microwave-safe plate. Cover with damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking temperature to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, Greek lemon chicken is perfect for meal prepping. You can cook it in advance, store in the refrigerator, and reheat for up to 3-4 days without losing flavor.

• Can I use chicken breasts instead of whole chicken?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work great and cook faster. Just adjust cooking time to ensure they reach 165F internal temperature without drying out.

• Do I need any special ingredients for this recipe?

No special ingredients required. Most items like olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs are common kitchen staples. The recipe is simple and uses basic seasonings.

Why Greek Lemon Chicken Is Outstanding

• Whip Up Mediterranean Magic: Transport your taste buds to Greece with this simple yet flavor-packed chicken dish that brings exotic Mediterranean flavors right to your kitchen.
• Quick and Hassle-Free Cooking: Minimal prep work means you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknight dinners or spontaneous family gatherings.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor Explosion: Zesty lemon, aromatic herbs, and perfectly roasted chicken create a mouthwatering combination that appeals to both adults and kids, making it a universal favorite.
• Healthy Protein Powerhouse: Lean chicken marinated in heart-healthy olive oil and vibrant herbs offers a nutritious meal that doesn't compromise on taste or satisfaction.

All You Need for Greek Chicken Dish

• Chicken: A versatile and lean meat that absorbs the delicious Greek-inspired marinade and becomes tender when baked.

• Olive Oil, Lemon Juice: Creates a bright and zesty base that helps tenderize the chicken and adds rich Mediterranean flavor.
• Garlic: Provides a sharp and aromatic depth to the marinade.

• Oregano, Thyme, Paprika, Salt, Pepper: Adds traditional Greek herb and spice profile that enhances the overall taste of the chicken.

• Fresh Parsley, Lemon Wedges: Adds a fresh, bright finish and visual appeal to the completed dish.

Steps for Cooking Greek Lemon Chicken

Step 1: Warm Up the Cooking Space

Set your oven to a toasty 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) to create the perfect environment for your delicious chicken.

Step 2: Create a Flavor Explosion

• Olive oil
• Fresh lemon juice
• Minced garlic
• Dried oregano
• Fresh thyme leaves
• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper

Blend these ingredients until they form a harmonious marinade that will make your taste buds dance.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken for Its Flavor Bath

Place the chicken in a baking dish and lovingly pour the marinade all over, making sure every inch is covered.

Let the chicken soak up all those incredible flavors for 20 minutes.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and let the magic happen.

Bake for 35-40 minutes, taking a moment every now and then to baste the chicken with its own juices.

You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken turns a beautiful golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 5: Dress Up and Serve

Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the top and add a few bright lemon wedges on the side.

Your Greek Lemon Chicken is now ready to be the star of the dinner table!

Best Tips for Juicy Greek Chicken

• Let chicken soak in the lemony marinade for at least 20 minutes, or even overnight in the refrigerator for deeper, more intense taste.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165F internally, preventing undercooked meat and guaranteeing juicy, safe results.
• Crush dried oregano and thyme between your fingers before adding to release more aromatic oils and enhance the herb's flavor profile.
• Baste the chicken every 10-15 minutes during cooking to keep the meat moist and prevent it from becoming tough or stringy.
• Squeeze extra fresh lemon juice over the chicken just before serving to brighten the dish and add a tangy pop of flavor.

Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe

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4.6 from 15 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent greek lemon chicken blends Mediterranean flavors with zesty citrus notes. Tender chicken marinated in garlic, herbs, and lemon creates a perfect meal you’ll savor with each delicious bite.

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Ingredients

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Proteins:

• 4 chicken thighs or chicken breasts

Marinade and Seasoning:

• 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) olive oil
• 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) fresh lemon juice
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Garnish and Seasoning:

• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges
• Fresh parsley

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Instructions

1. Prepare the aromatic marinade by combining olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl.
2. Arrange chicken pieces in a spacious baking dish, ensuring they are evenly spread out.
3. Pour the vibrant marinade over the chicken, thoroughly coating each piece. Allow the chicken to absorb the Mediterranean flavors for 20 minutes at room temperature.
4. Heat the oven to 375F (190C), creating an ideal roasting environment for the chicken.
5. Place the marinated chicken in the preheated oven, positioning the dish in the center rack for consistent heat distribution.
6. Roast the chicken for 35-40 minutes, periodically basting with the marinade to enhance moisture and flavor intensity.
7. Verify doneness by checking the internal temperature reaches 165F, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes to redistribute juices.
9. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and bright lemon wedges to add a final burst of citrusy freshness before serving.

Notes

• Marinate chicken longer for deeper flavor infusion, ideally 2-4 hours in the refrigerator for maximum taste development.
• Use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks for juicier results and more intense flavor profile compared to lean chicken breasts.
• Create a gluten-free version by ensuring all spices and ingredients are certified gluten-free, perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
• Transform the dish into a one-pan meal by adding quartered potatoes or sliced vegetables around the chicken during baking for a complete, easy dinner solution.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 256 kcal
• Sugar: 0.3 g
• Sodium: 75 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 1.2 g
• Fiber: 0.3 g
• Protein: 27 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg