Easy Greek Lemon Chicken

Every now and then, I find myself longing for a dish that transports me straight to the sun-kissed shores of Greece. The Easy Greek Lemon Chicken is just that! With its vibrant flavors and tender chicken thighs, this dish embodies everything I love about Mediterranean cuisine. I remember the first time I tried a lemon-infused chicken recipe at a small taverna during my travels. It was an explosion of citrus and herbs, and I knew I had to recreate it at home. Now, it’s a staple in my kitchen that brings warmth and comfort to my family dinners.

There’s something magical about the way lemon enhances the natural flavors of the chicken, creating a dish that’s both refreshing and hearty. I often prepare it during family gatherings or casual dinners with friends, and the response is always the same: everyone wants seconds! The aroma that fills the kitchen while it’s roasting is utterly irresistible, making it hard not to sneak a taste before it’s ready. If you’re in search of a dish that’s not just easy to make but also packed with flavor and charm, the Easy Greek Lemon Chicken is your answer.

Let’s dive into why this recipe is so special and how you can make it shine in your own home.

Recipe Ingredients for Easy Greek Lemon Chicken

When it comes to the ingredients for Easy Greek Lemon Chicken, simplicity is key. Each element plays an important role, working together to create a deliciously cohesive dish. The main star is, of course, the chicken thighs, which are known for their juiciness and flavor. Combined with olive oil and fresh garlic, they create a rich marinade that seeps into the meat, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. Fresh lemons bring a bright acidity that cuts through the richness, while the herbs add depth and complexity. Here’s what you need:

• 5 Chicken Thighs – Bone-in and skin-on for maximum flavor and juiciness.
• 1/4 Cup Olive Oil – A healthy fat that enhances the marinade and helps crisp the skin.
• 3 Garlic Cloves – Minced to infuse a robust flavor into the chicken.
• 1/2 Teaspoon Kosher Salt – Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken.
• 1/4 Teaspoon Black Pepper – A hint of spice to complement the dish.
• 1 Teaspoon Dried Oregano – A classic herb that pairs beautifully with chicken.
• 1/4 Teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper – For a touch of heat that balances the flavors.
• 1 Teaspoon Dried Thyme – Adds earthy notes to the dish.
• 2 Lemons – One juiced and zested for the marinade and one cut into wedges for roasting.

How to Make Easy Greek Lemon Chicken

Making the Easy Greek Lemon Chicken is truly a breeze. With just a few simple steps and a little patience, you’ll have a gorgeous, flavorful meal that will impress anyone at your table. Let’s get started!

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Setting the oven ahead of time allows the chicken to roast evenly, ensuring a crispy skin.

2. In a large bowl, add the chicken thighs, olive oil, garlic, salt, black pepper, oregano, crushed red pepper, thyme, and the juice and zest of one lemon. Use your hands to mix everything together thoroughly, ensuring each piece of chicken is well-coated in the marinade. This step is crucial for flavor!

3. Take a cast iron skillet and place the marinated chicken thighs skin side up. This position helps the skin get crispy while roasting. Make sure to arrange them evenly in the skillet.

4. Next, toss the remaining lemon wedges in the leftover marinade. Position them in between the chicken in the skillet. The roasting lemons will caramelize slightly, adding incredible flavor.

5. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and roast for 35 to 40 minutes. Keep an eye on the chicken; it should be browned and crispy. You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should read 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

6. Once done, take the skillet out of the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender.

7. Serve the Easy Greek Lemon Chicken with the roasted lemon wedges and any pan juices drizzled over the top. Enjoy!

Helpful Hints

When it comes to making the Easy Greek Lemon Chicken, having some handy hints can make your experience even better:

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to two months. Just make sure to wrap it well.
• Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh Greek salad.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve it with fluffy rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
• Herb Swap: Feel free to swap out the herbs based on your preference—fresh basil or parsley can work wonders too.

Best Served With

The Easy Greek Lemon Chicken is versatile when it comes to side dishes and pairings, making it perfect for a variety of occasions. Here are some great suggestions:

• Greek Salad: A fresh Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and feta is a classic pairing that complements the flavors perfectly.
• Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots provide a delightful crunch and sweetness.
• Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs enhances the meal while providing a hearty base.
• Flatbread or Pita: Serve with warm flatbread or pita for a casual and fun dining experience.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This dish is great for family meals, gatherings, or even special occasions. You can prepare it ahead of time and simply heat it before serving.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Easy Greek Lemon Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table. It’s not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or entertaining friends. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite in your home!

Easy Greek Lemon Chicken

Craving something zesty and comforting? The Easy Greek Lemon Chicken is the ultimate weeknight dinner that brings the taste of the Mediterranean to your table. Juicy chicken thighs marinated in lemon and herbs create a flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. Make it tonight for a quick and delicious meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Mediterranean

Servings 5 servings

Calories 380 kcal

Equipment

• Baking Sheet
• Oven
• Skillet

Ingredients

  

• 5 Chicken Thighs Bone-in and skin-on for maximum flavor and juiciness.
• 1/4 cup Olive Oil A healthy fat that enhances the marinade.
• 3 Garlic Cloves Minced for flavor infusion.
• 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt Essential for seasoning the chicken.
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds a hint of spice.
• 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano A classic herb for chicken.
• 1/4 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper For a touch of heat.
• 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Adds earthy notes.
• 2 lemons Lemons One juiced and one cut into wedges.

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 375 degrees.
• Add the chicken thighs, olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, crushed red pepper, thyme, lemon juice and zest in a large bowl together and combine well.
• Place the chicken thighs in your cast iron skillet skin side up.
• Toss the lemon wedges in the leftover marinade and add to the skillet in between the chicken pieces.
• Roast for 35-40 minutes or until browned and crispy.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
• Tip 2: Freeze cooked chicken for up to two months.
• Tip 3: Pair with a fresh Greek salad or roasted vegetables.
• Tip 4: Serve with fluffy rice or crusty bread.
• Tip 5: Swap herbs based on your preference.

Keyword easy chicken recipes, Greek Chicken Recipe, Lemon Chicken Thighs, Mediterranean Chicken Dish