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Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe

Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe

5.1 from 5 reviews

This Greek Lemon Chicken recipe features juicy, tender chicken thighs marinated and roasted in a vibrant blend of olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic, and aromatic herbs. Perfectly seasoned with oregano, thyme, and Dijon mustard, this dish delivers a bright and savory Mediterranean flavor that pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh Greek salad.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 8 bone-in chicken thighs

Marinade

  • ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • ¼ cup lemon juice
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 2 teaspoons dried thyme
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined to create a fragrant marinade.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the bone-in chicken thighs in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 3 to 4 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
  3. Preheat the Oven: When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure a nicely roasted and crispy exterior on the chicken.
  4. Arrange Chicken for Roasting: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and arrange the thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet or in a roasting pan. Reserve the marinade for basting.
  5. Roast the Chicken: Place the chicken in the preheated oven and roast for 35-40 minutes, basting occasionally with the reserved marinade halfway through cooking. The chicken is done when the skin is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps retain the juices, making the chicken moist and flavorful.

Notes

  • For a zestier flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the marinade.
  • Bone-in chicken thighs are preferred for juiciness, but skin-on chicken breasts can be substituted.
  • Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
  • Serve with roasted vegetables, Greek salad, or rice to complete your meal.
  • You can prepare the chicken a day ahead and refrigerate for an even more intense flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Greek lemon chicken, roasted chicken thighs, Mediterranean chicken recipe, lemon garlic chicken, oregano chicken