Craving a taste of Greece? Dive into the bold and zesty flavors of Greek Lemon Chicken, a Mediterranean classic that brings together juicy chicken thighs marinated in lemon, garlic, and oregano. This flavorful dish is perfect for any occasion, and its refreshing citrus notes make it a delightful meal to share with family and friends.
Ingredients List
Main Ingredients
- 8 bone-in chicken thighs
- ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon (sliced for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Required Kitchen Tools
To make Greek Lemon Chicken, having the right tools will ensure smooth preparation and cooking. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- Large Mixing Bowl: Essential for marinating the chicken thoroughly in the lemony mixture.
- Baking Dish or Sheet Pan: Use a large baking dish or sheet pan to roast the chicken evenly.
- Tongs: Handy for flipping the chicken while roasting.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise measurement of ingredients like olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs.
These tools will make the preparation of your Greek Lemon Chicken simple and enjoyable.
Marinating the Chicken
Marinating is a crucial step in infusing the chicken with the bright flavors of lemon, garlic, and herbs. Follow these steps to prepare the marinade and coat the chicken.
Mixing the Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined. This mixture will serve as the marinade for the chicken.
Marinating the Chicken
Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring that each piece is fully coated. Use your hands or tongs to turn the chicken in the marinade for even coverage. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor. If time allows, marinating overnight will yield the best results.
Roasting the Greek Lemon Chicken
After marinating, it’s time to roast the chicken to golden perfection. Follow these steps to achieve a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
Prepping for the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, arrange the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up in a baking dish or sheet pan. Make sure there’s space between each piece for even cooking. You can also place lemon slices around the chicken for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Roasting the Chicken
Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Halfway through cooking, you can baste the chicken with the juices that collect in the pan for added moisture and flavor.
Serving and Garnishing
Garnishing for Extra Flavor
Once the Greek Lemon Chicken is roasted to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional lemon slices for a burst of freshness.
Suggested Side Dishes
Greek Lemon Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, such as roasted potatoes, a Greek salad, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with tzatziki sauce for a creamy complement to the zesty flavors.
Storage Instructions
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Freezing for Later
Greek Lemon Chicken can also be frozen. Once cooled, transfer the chicken to a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in the oven.
Conclusion
This Greek Lemon Chicken recipe brings the taste of the Mediterranean straight to your kitchen. The vibrant marinade of lemon, garlic, and herbs creates a dish that’s juicy, flavorful, and easy to make. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this recipe will become a go-to favorite. Enjoy the taste of Greece with each zesty, tender bite!