Zesty Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe That Brings Sunshine to Dinner

My culinary passion for greek lemon chicken sparks excitement in every home cook’s kitchen.

Bright citrus notes dance alongside tender meat, creating a Mediterranean masterpiece.

Simple ingredients blend perfectly to craft an unforgettable meal.

Marinating transforms ordinary chicken into a zesty delight bursting with flavor.

Herbs and lemon work magic, infusing each bite with sunshine-inspired taste.

Weeknight dinners become extraordinary with this classic Greek approach.

You will love how quickly this dish comes together with minimal effort.

FAQs

• Why should I marinate the chicken?

Marinating helps tenderize the meat, infuse deeper flavors, and keep the chicken moist during cooking, ensuring a more delicious and juicy result.

• Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute dried herbs, but use about 1/3 of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor compared to fresh herbs.

• What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or chicken breasts are ideal, as they remain juicy and absorb the marinade flavors effectively.

• How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), which ensures the chicken is safe to eat and perfectly cooked.

Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe Done Right

• Burst with Flavor: Zesty lemon and aromatic herbs create an explosion of Mediterranean taste that transforms ordinary chicken into a mouthwatering masterpiece.
• Quick and Foolproof Preparation: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe perfect for home cooks of all skill levels, ensuring delicious results every single time.
• Versatile Meal Solution: Easily adaptable for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or special gatherings, this chicken dish pairs wonderfully with multiple side dishes and fits various dietary preferences.
• Nutritious and Wholesome: Packed with lean protein and infused with heart-healthy olive oil, this recipe offers a balanced and nutritious meal that doesn't compromise on taste or satisfaction.

Ingredients For Classic Greek Lemon Chicken

• Chicken: Lean protein that serves as the star of this Greek-inspired dish and absorbs the tangy marinade perfectly.

• Olive Oil, Lemon Juice, Lemon Zest: Creates a bright, zesty flavor base that tenderizes and infuses the chicken with Mediterranean taste.
• Garlic: Adds a robust, aromatic depth to the marinade and enhances the overall flavor profile.

• Oregano, Thyme, Paprika: Provides a classic Greek herb and spice combination that gives the chicken authentic Mediterranean character.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance and balance the overall taste of the dish.

• Chicken Broth: Helps keep the chicken moist during baking and adds extra flavor to the meat.

• Fresh Parsley: Adds a fresh, green finish and brightens the visual appeal of the dish.

Step-By-Step Greek Lemon Chicken Preparation

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a toasty 375F (190C), getting it ready for the delicious chicken adventure ahead.

Step 2: Create Flavor Magic

• Olive oil
• Fresh lemon juice
• Lemon zest
• Minced garlic
• Dried oregano
• Fragrant thyme
• Smoky paprika
• Salt
• Cracked black pepper

Stir these ingredients together until they form a mouthwatering blend that will make your taste buds dance.

Step 3: Bath the Chicken in Flavor

Coat the chicken completely in the marinade, ensuring every inch gets a flavor hug.

Let it chill and soak up the goodness for at least 30 minutes, or if you’re planning ahead, overnight in the refrigerator for maximum taste explosion.

Step 4: Sear to Perfection

Heat a skillet over medium flame and create a golden-brown exterior on the chicken.

Sizzle each side until a beautiful caramelized crust forms, locking in all those incredible flavors.

Step 5: Bake to Deliciousness

Transfer the beautifully seared chicken to a baking dish.

Pour in some chicken broth if you want extra moisture.

Slide the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and juicy.

Step 6: Serve with Flair

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness.

Plate alongside roasted vegetables or fluffy rice to complete this Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Pro Tips To Enhance Greek Lemon Chicken

• Marinate chicken overnight in the lemon-herb mixture to allow ingredients to deeply penetrate and tenderize the meat.
• Use a cast-iron skillet for achieving a golden-brown exterior that locks in juices and creates a delicious caramelized crust.
• Cover the baking dish with foil during initial baking to prevent chicken from drying out and maintain succulent texture.
• Replace regular spices with certified gluten-free alternatives and ensure chicken broth is gluten-free for sensitive diets.
• Always use a meat thermometer to check chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption without overcooking.

Variations To Refresh Greek Lemon Chicken Dish

• Mediterranean Herb Swap: Replace oregano and thyme with rosemary and basil for a different herb profile that adds rich Mediterranean flavors.
• Citrus Alternative: Substitute lemon with orange or lime juice to create a unique tangy marinade that transforms the chicken's taste.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the rice and serve with cauliflower rice or roasted zucchini for a keto-friendly version that reduces carbohydrate intake.
• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne to the marinade for a hot kick that brings extra heat to the traditional Greek chicken recipe.

Serving Suggestions For Greek Lemon Chicken

• Mediterranean Feast Companion: Pair with fluffy lemon-infused rice pilaf for a complete Greek-inspired meal.
• Fresh and Bright Side Dish: Serve alongside a crisp Greek salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and feta cheese to complement the tangy chicken flavors.
• Herb Lovers' Delight: Sprinkle extra fresh oregano and parsley on top, and add a dollop of tzatziki sauce for extra zesty Mediterranean authenticity.
• Wine Pairing Magic: Choose a chilled white wine like Assyrtiko or Sauvignon Blanc to enhance the lemony chicken's bright and refreshing profile.

Storage Advice For Greek Lemon Chicken

• Place leftover chicken in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cool the chicken completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Label the bag with the date to track freshness.
• Sprinkle a few drops of chicken broth or water over the chicken to maintain moisture. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals, checking temperature until warm throughout.

Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe

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4.8 from 9 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Zesty Greek Lemon Chicken delivers Mediterranean sunshine on a plate, bringing tangy citrus notes and herbal aromatics together. Marinated tender chicken emerges from the oven golden and juicy, promising a delightful journey through Greek culinary traditions you’ll savor with every bite.

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Ingredients

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Main Protein:

• 4 chicken thighs or chicken breasts

Citrus and Aromatics:

• 3 lemons (juice and zest)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) chicken broth

Herbs and Seasonings:

• 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

1. Combine lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper in a mixing container to create a vibrant marinade.
2. Thoroughly coat chicken pieces with the marinade, ensuring complete coverage, and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes to allow flavors to penetrate deeply.
3. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) while preparing a skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Sear marinated chicken in the hot skillet, developing a golden-brown exterior that seals in moisture and enhances flavor complexity.
5. Carefully transfer chicken to a baking dish, optionally adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture during roasting.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, ensuring internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
7. Remove from oven and let chicken rest for 5 minutes to redistribute internal juices and maintain tenderness.
8. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken for a bright, herbaceous finish.
9. Serve alongside roasted vegetables or fluffy rice to complete the Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Notes

• Marinate chicken overnight for deeper, more intense lemon and herb flavors that penetrate completely through the meat.
• Use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks for extra juiciness and richer taste compared to chicken breasts, which can dry out faster.
• Replace regular olive oil with extra virgin olive oil for a more authentic Mediterranean profile and smoother, more robust flavor foundation.
• Customize the recipe for dietary needs by swapping chicken with firm tofu or plant-based chicken alternatives, maintaining the same marinade for a vegetarian version.

• Prep Time: 40 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 320 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 250 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 3 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg