Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe

There's nothing quite like the zesty aroma of Greek Lemon Chicken filling your kitchen, promising a meal that's both comforting and refreshing. This one-pan wonder features juicy chicken infused with bright lemon flavors, tender potatoes, and a medley of fragrant herbs that will have everyone eagerly gathering around the table.

this Recipe

I discovered this recipe during a family trip to Greece, where meals were shared, laughter was abundant, and the flavors of the Mediterranean left a lasting impression. Since then, this dish has become a staple in our home, a reminder of sunny days and good company.

Get ready to fall in love with a meal that’s perfect for weeknights yet elegant enough for entertaining.

Why You'll Love This Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe

Get ready to savor a meal that will transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean coast. This Greek Lemon Chicken isn't just bursting with flavor—it's a crowd-pleaser for many reasons.

First, this recipe is simple to make yet tastes like something you'd enjoy at a charming Greek taverna. With just one pan and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious, hearty meal ready with little effort. Ideal for busy evenings, it lets the oven do most of the work while you unwind.

The blend of fresh lemon, garlic, and oregano is a flavor match made in heaven. The bright citrus perfectly complements the savory, succulent chicken, while a touch of olive oil adds richness to the dish. It's a vibrant, palate-pleasing combination that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

And let’s not forget the tender potatoes. Roasting them alongside the chicken means they soak up all the delicious flavors, resulting in perfectly cooked, golden morsels. Every bite of this meal feels special, making it ideal for family gatherings or weeknight indulgence.

Lastly, it's a nutritious, wholesome dish that doesn’t compromise on taste. Loaded with protein, healthy fats, and fresh ingredients, this Greek Lemon Chicken is sure to keep your whole family satisfied.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Greek Lemon Chicken lies in the balance of fresh, quality ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating an unforgettable meal.

Chicken: Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks for the best flavor and juiciness. The bone helps keep the meat moist, while the skin crisps up beautifully in the oven. You can use chicken breasts if you prefer, but note that they may cook faster and can be less tender.

Lemon: Fresh lemon juice is essential for achieving that signature tang. You'll use both the juice and zest to infuse the chicken and potatoes with layers of bright, citrusy flavor. If you love an extra lemony punch, feel free to add some lemon slices to the pan.

Potatoes: Small, waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds or baby red potatoes work wonderfully here. They hold their shape well and roast to a golden perfection. Be sure to cut them into even pieces so they cook at the same rate as the chicken.

Herbs and Spices: Dried oregano is a classic in Greek cuisine, and it adds a warm, savory note to the dish. Fresh garlic lends depth, while a sprinkle of black pepper and salt enhances every flavor. A touch of thyme or rosemary can add another aromatic layer if desired.

Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best results. It not only helps the chicken and potatoes cook evenly but also adds a lovely, fruity richness to the entire dish.

You’ll also need a sturdy, oven-safe baking dish or a large roasting pan to accommodate everything comfortably without overcrowding.

How To Make This Greek Lemon Chicken

Creating this vibrant Greek Lemon Chicken is easier than you might think. Let me walk you through the process step by step.

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). You want the oven to be nice and hot so that the chicken skin turns golden and crispy. While the oven heats up, prepare your chicken by patting it dry with paper towels. Drying the skin helps ensure that it crisps up beautifully during roasting.

Next, in a large bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and olive oil. This vibrant marinade will coat the chicken and potatoes, infusing them with incredible flavor. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl, turning to coat them evenly, and let them sit for a few minutes to soak up all that goodness.

Meanwhile, wash and cut your potatoes into even chunks. Add them to the bowl with the chicken, tossing everything together until the potatoes are well coated in the marinade. If you like an extra burst of flavor, throw in a few sprigs of fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme.

Transfer the chicken and potatoes to a large baking dish or roasting pan, arranging the chicken pieces skin-side up. Make sure everything is spread out in a single layer so that the potatoes roast evenly and the chicken skin has space to crisp up. Pour any remaining marinade over the top for an extra punch of flavor.

Roast in the oven for 40-50 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the potatoes are golden and fork-tender. About halfway through the cooking time, give the potatoes a gentle stir to ensure even browning.

Once everything is beautifully roasted, remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.

Storage Options

Leftovers of this Greek Lemon Chicken are a blessing in disguise—perfect for a quick, satisfying lunch or dinner the next day. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors only deepen over time, making reheated portions just as delicious.

For freezing, let the chicken and potatoes cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.

To reheat without drying out the chicken, cover the dish with foil and bake until heated evenly. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven method yields the best texture.

Variations and Substitutions

This Greek Lemon Chicken recipe is as versatile as it is delicious, and there are plenty of ways to adapt it to your preferences.

For a veggie-packed version, add chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans to the roasting pan. These vegetables will soak up the lemony juices, becoming tender and flavorful alongside the chicken and potatoes.

If you’re in the mood for something heartier, consider serving the chicken and potatoes over a bed of orzo or couscous. The grains will soak up the delicious juices, creating a complete meal that’s both filling and satisfying.

Want to switch up the protein? Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for a leaner dish, though they may need less cooking time. If you have seafood lovers at your table, swap the chicken for white fish fillets and reduce the cooking time significantly.

For a dairy-free creamy element, consider adding a dollop of hummus or a spoonful of tahini sauce on the side. It pairs beautifully with the tangy lemon flavors and makes for an extra indulgent experience.

Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs. While oregano is traditional, fresh parsley or dill can also add a burst of fresh, herby flavor that complements the dish perfectly.

Happy cooking, and remember: every bite of this Greek Lemon Chicken brings a little taste of the Mediterranean to your table!

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