If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful dish to impress your family or guests, look no further than Easy Greek Lemon Chicken. This recipe showcases succulent chicken thighs bathed in a zesty marinade, creating a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of fresh lemon, aromatic herbs, and garlic infuses the chicken with vibrant flavors, making every bite a delight. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish will surely become a favorite on your table.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

Easy Greek Lemon Chicken is all about vibrant flavors and minimal fuss. Here’s what you’ll love about this delightful recipe:

Effortless Prep: With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a marinade that does all the work for you.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of lemon, garlic, and herbs creates a refreshing and aromatic dish that tantalizes the taste buds.
Juicy Chicken: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs ensure moist and tender meat, perfect for soaking up all the flavors.
Versatile Serving: This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from rice to roasted vegetables, making it a flexible addition to your meal rotation.
Quick Clean-Up: With minimal dishes involved, you’ll spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your meal.

Ingredient Rundown

To create this succulent Easy Greek Lemon Chicken, gather the following ingredients:

5 chicken thighs: Bone-in and skin-on for maximum flavor and juiciness.
1/4 cup olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for a richer taste.
3 garlic cloves: Minced for that aromatic punch.
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of the chicken.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic herb that adds a Mediterranean touch.
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper: Optional for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: Complements the other herbs beautifully.
2 lemons: One for juicing and zesting, and one cut into wedges for roasting.

Tools of the Trade

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Easy Greek Lemon Chicken:

Mixing bowl: For combining the marinade ingredients.
Whisk: To blend the marinade smoothly.
Baking dish or sheet pan: For roasting the chicken to perfection.
Meat thermometer: Optional, but helpful for ensuring your chicken is cooked through.
Sharp knife: For cutting the lemons and chicken.

Directions: Easy Greek Lemon Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, dried oregano, crushed red pepper (if using), and dried thyme. Zest one lemon and add the zest to the bowl. Squeeze in the juice of that lemon as well. Whisk everything together until well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but for best results, let it marinate for 2-4 hours or even overnight.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy.

Step 4: Arrange the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it in a baking dish or on a sheet pan. Arrange the lemon wedges around the chicken for added flavor and a beautiful presentation.

Step 5: Roast the Chicken

Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If you want extra crispy skin, you can broil it for the last 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. Serve hot with the roasted lemon wedges and your favorite sides.

Customize for Your Needs

One of the best things about Easy Greek Lemon Chicken is its versatility. Here are some ways to customize the recipe to suit your tastes:

Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like rosemary or basil for a unique flavor profile.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper based on your heat preference.
Vegetable Add-Ins: Add sliced bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the baking dish for a complete meal.
Marinade Time: The longer you marinate, the more flavorful the chicken will be. Try marinating overnight for maximum flavor.

Method to the Madness

The key to achieving the perfect Easy Greek Lemon Chicken lies in the marinade. The combination of lemon juice, zest, and olive oil not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the chicken. The high roasting temperature ensures the skin gets crispy while the chicken remains juicy. Letting the chicken rest after roasting is crucial; it allows the juices to settle, resulting in moist, flavorful meat that won’t dry out when you cut into it.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is unlikely, given how delicious this dish is), here are some tips for storing and reheating:

Storing: Allow the chicken to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking. Just ensure it’s in a sealed bag and used within 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This will keep the skin crispy.

Handy Q&A

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind they may dry out more easily. Consider marinating for a shorter time and monitoring the cooking time closely.

What should I serve with this dish?

Easy Greek Lemon Chicken pairs well with a variety of sides like roasted potatoes, rice pilaf, or a fresh Greek salad. Don’t forget some crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices!

Can I make this dish on the grill?

Absolutely! You can grill the marinated chicken thighs over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. This will add a lovely smoky flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Easy Greek Lemon Chicken is perfect for meal prep. Just cook a batch at the beginning of the week, and you’ll have flavorful lunches or dinners ready to go.

Before You Go

Get ready to savor the bright, zesty flavors of Easy Greek Lemon Chicken. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also brings a taste of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. With its juicy chicken and aromatic herbs, every bite will leave you wanting more. Don’t hesitate to make this a regular in your meal rotation; it’s bound to become a family favorite!