Baked Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe
If you’re in search of a dinner that’s both weeknight-easy and celebration-worthy, look no further than Baked Greek Lemon Chicken. This dish brings together juicy, golden-baked chicken thighs that soak up the brightness of lemon, the richness of olive oil, and the soulful aroma of classic Mediterranean herbs. Each bite is packed with sun-kissed flavor, tender chicken, and just the right hint of garlic. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, Baked Greek Lemon Chicken is a recipe to keep in your regular rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the things I love most about Baked Greek Lemon Chicken is how it uses simple, everyday ingredients to produce extraordinary results. Every element plays a role, from the pungent garlic that infuses the meat to the tangy lemon that makes the flavors pop. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken Thighs (bone-in, skin-on): These stay incredibly juicy and hold up beautifully to baking, giving you crisp skin and succulence.
- Olive Oil: An essential for Mediterranean cooking, it brings silkiness and richness, helping the chicken brown while keeping it moist.
- Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed): This is the star that gives the chicken its signature zest and tang—don’t be tempted by bottled juice!
- Garlic (freshly minced): Garlic adds a deep, aromatic flavor that melds perfectly with the lemon and herbs.
- Dried Oregano: Brings that classic Greek flavor, earthy and slightly peppery, essential for authenticity.
- Dried Thyme: Lends a warm, floral undertone that complements the other spices.
- Salt and Pepper: These basics are non-negotiable for balancing and brightening all the flavors.
- Fresh Parsley or Lemon Slices (for garnish): A final flourish of green and citrus makes the finished plate as beautiful as it is delicious.
How to Make Baked Greek Lemon Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by making your flavor-packed marinade. In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. This zesty liquid is what will infuse your chicken with all the bright, fresh notes that make Baked Greek Lemon Chicken so unforgettable. Don’t be shy with the herbs—go for that fragrant punch!
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure every piece is fully coated. Seal or cover, then pop it in the refrigerator. Give it at least 30 minutes, but if you have a couple of hours, even better—the longer the chicken sits, the deeper the flavors penetrate.
Step 3: Preheat and Arrange
As you’re nearing the end of the marinating time, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Take the chicken out of the marinade and arrange the pieces, skin side up, on the baking sheet. Be sure to leave a bit of space between each thigh for the best browning.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Slide the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. The chicken skin should turn a gorgeous golden brown, and the juices should run clear when you pierce the thickest part with a knife. If you have a meat thermometer, check for an internal temp of 165°F (75°C).
Step 5: Rest and Garnish
Let your Baked Greek Lemon Chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute for maximum tenderness. Just before serving, scatter over some chopped fresh parsley and add a few lemon slices for brightness and a dash of color. Serve, enjoy, and bask in the Mediterranean sunshine—no plane ticket required!
How to Serve Baked Greek Lemon Chicken
Garnishes
The simplest garnish is the best for Baked Greek Lemon Chicken: a generous sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley and a fan of lemon wedges or slices over the top. This not only adds a burst of color but also amps up the citrusy aroma. If you’re feeling fancy, try a dusting of crumbled feta or a drizzle of good extra-virgin olive oil just before serving.
Side Dishes
This chicken shines alongside classic Greek sides. Fluffy lemon orzo, roasted potatoes, or a crisp Greek salad loaded with cucumbers, purple onions, and tomatoes are all perfect partners. If you’re keeping it simple, warm pita bread and a dollop of tzatziki create a complete meal with minimum fuss.
Creative Ways to Present
For casual dinners, serve the chicken straight from the tray family-style. For a more elegant night, transfer the chicken onto a big platter, arrange lemon slices and fresh herbs around, and spoon any pan juices over the top. Want to impress at a picnic? Cool the chicken, then slice and tuck into pita sandwiches with crunchy veggies and yogurt sauce—the Mediterranean magic is portable!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Baked Greek Lemon Chicken keeps beautifully in the fridge. Store cooled chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making for tasty lunches or salads the next day.
Freezing
If you want to freeze, let the chicken cool completely, then pack it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. It’ll stay delicious for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the freshest taste and texture.
Reheating
For best results, reheat the chicken in a 350°F oven until warmed through—about 15 minutes. Microwaving works if you’re in a hurry, though the skin won’t be quite as crisp. A squeeze of fresh lemon after reheating will revive that citrusy kick in your Baked Greek Lemon Chicken.
FAQs
Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind boneless pieces will cook a bit faster, and you’ll lose the crispy skin factor. Watch closely to prevent overcooking, and baste once or twice with pan juices for extra flavor.
What if I don’t have fresh lemons?
Fresh lemon really makes this dish sing, but in a pinch, bottled lemon juice can work. Adjust to taste, as it can be more concentrated than fresh juice. If you have lemon zest, add a little for bonus fragrance.
Is Baked Greek Lemon Chicken gluten free?
Yes, as written this recipe is completely gluten free! Just double-check that your herbs and spices are certified gluten free if you’re serving anyone with sensitivity or celiac disease.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
For the best flavor, give it at least 30 minutes. If life gets busy, you can let chicken marinate up to 8 hours in the fridge. More than that and the acid in the lemon can start to change the texture of the chicken—so don’t forget it overnight!
Can I add other vegetables to bake with the chicken?
Definitely! Potatoes, bell peppers, or red onions tossed in a little olive oil and seasoning can bake right alongside, soaking up the chicken’s savory citrus juices for a complete one-pan dinner.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Greek Lemon Chicken has a way of winning hearts—the zesty marinade, juicy chicken, and simplicity of baking make it a dish you’ll reach for again and again. I hope it finds a happy home in your kitchen, and that you savor every tangy, herb-filled bite. Happy cooking!
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Baked Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Baked Greek Lemon Chicken is a flavorful, juicy, and tender chicken dish that’s marinated in a zesty mixture of lemon, olive oil, garlic, and Mediterranean herbs. It’s a perfect dinner option that’s easy to make and packed with vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 lemons, juiced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
Instructions
- Prepare Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate Chicken: Place chicken thighs in a resealable bag or dish, pour marinade over chicken, seal, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Bake Chicken: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange marinated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 35-40 minutes until fully cooked.
- Rest and Serve: Allow chicken to rest before serving. Garnish with parsley or lemon slices if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
