Greek Lemon Chicken
Why Make This Recipe
Greek Lemon Chicken is not just a dish; it’s a delightful culinary experience that takes you on a flavorful journey to the sun-soaked shores of Greece. Its bright and zesty flavor profile, combined with the succulent juiciness of the chicken, makes it a fantastic option for any dinner table. Not only is this dish easy to prepare, but it also requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights as well as special occasions. Plus, the health benefits of lemon and olive oil make it a guilt-free indulgence. So, if you’re looking for a recipe that’s both delicious and quick to whip up, this is the perfect choice for you!
How to Make Greek Lemon Chicken
Making Greek Lemon Chicken is simple and straightforward. With just a few steps, you can have a flavorful dinner ready in less than an hour. Below, you’ll find everything you need to create this delightful dish.
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Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 lemons (juiced and zested)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
- Allow to rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Pro Tips for Success with Greek Lemon Chicken
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Marinate Longer: If possible, let the chicken marinate for a few hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply, resulting in an even tastier dish.
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Choose Bone-in, Skin-on Thighs: For maximum flavor and juiciness, opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. The skin helps keep the meat moist while it cooks.
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Use Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice: Always use fresh lemons instead of bottled juice for the best flavor. The zest also adds a nice aromatic touch.
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Check for Doneness: To ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
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Let it Rest: Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.
Flavor Variations for Greek Lemon Chicken
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Herb Variations: Try adding fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or dill for a different flavor profile. These herbs complement the lemon beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: If you like some heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade. This will introduce a subtle spiciness to the dish.
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Mediterranean Twist: Include olives or sundried tomatoes in the baking dish for an additional Mediterranean flair. These ingredients bring a delightful brininess that rounds out the dish.
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Garlic Lovers: If you’re a garlic enthusiast, increase the number of garlic cloves in the recipe. Roasting brings out a rich flavor that pairs superbly with lemon.
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Honey Glaze: For a sweet and sour combination, drizzle a tablespoon of honey into the marinade. It caramelizes during baking and adds a lovely glaze.
Serving Suggestions for Greek Lemon Chicken
Greek Lemon Chicken pairs wonderfully with various sides. Here are a few serving suggestions:
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Greek Salad: A fresh Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese makes a refreshing side that complements the rich flavors of the chicken.
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Rice Pilaf: Serve the chicken over a bed of lemony rice pilaf or quinoa for a wholesome meal.
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Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus make a colorful and nutritious addition to your plate.
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Tzatziki Sauce: A side of tzatziki sauce made with yogurt, cucumber, and garlic can add a cool, creamy element that balances the dish’s flavors.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Greek Lemon Chicken
Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Greek Lemon Chicken can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can also freeze the chicken. Make sure it’s cooled completely, then wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|————-|—————|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 24g |
| Carbohydrates | 2g |
| Fat | 24g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sodium | 560mg |
FAQ About Greek Lemon Chicken
What types of chicken can I use for this recipe?
You can use various cuts of chicken for Greek Lemon Chicken, but chicken thighs are the most recommended for their flavor and juiciness. Chicken breasts can be used too, but they may require less cooking time to avoid drying out. Bone-in and skin-on pieces add more flavor compared to boneless and skinless ones.
Can I make Greek Lemon Chicken on the grill?
Absolutely! Grilling adds a wonderful smoky flavor to the chicken. Simply marinate the chicken as directed and then grill over medium-high heat for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through. Be sure to monitor it closely to prevent drying out.
Is Greek Lemon Chicken a healthy meal option?
Yes, Greek Lemon Chicken is a healthy meal option, particularly when paired with vegetables or a salad. It is high in protein and includes healthy fats from olive oil. Additionally, lemons add vitamins and antioxidants. Just be mindful of portion sizes and added sides for a balanced meal.
What can I do if I don’t have lemons?
If you don’t have lemons, you could use lime juice as a substitute. It will provide a similar acidity and brightness to the dish. Additionally, a mild vinegar like apple cider vinegar could work, though the flavor will differ slightly. Just remember to adjust the quantity to suit your taste.
Can this recipe be made in advance for meal prep?
Yes, Greek Lemon Chicken is an excellent choice for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator, then simply bake it when ready to eat. Additionally, cooked chicken can be portioned into meals and stored in the fridge or freezer for later enjoyment.
Final Thoughts
Greek Lemon Chicken is a standout dish that offers a bright, flavorful meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking to spice up a weeknight dinner or impress guests at your table, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. With its healthful ingredients and delicious flavors, you can feel good serving it to family and friends alike. So why not give it a try today? You’ll be delighted by how easy and delicious this dish is!
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Greek Lemon Chicken
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A flavorful and zesty chicken dish that brings the taste of Greece to your table with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 lemons (juiced and zested)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
- Allow to rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken for several hours or overnight. Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
