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Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe

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3.9 from 26 reviews

This Greek Lemon Chicken recipe features juicy, bone-in chicken thighs marinated in a bright, herbaceous mixture of lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and thyme, then baked to perfection. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cooking, perfect for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week.

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

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. Make the marinade: In a small 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.
  2. Marinate the chicken: Place the bone-in chicken thighs in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure all pieces are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour and up to 8 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
  3. Prepare for baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and transfer the thighs to a baking dish. Pour any remaining marinade over the top of the chicken.
  4. Bake the chicken: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. The chicken should be fully cooked, with an internal temperature of 175°F (80°C) measured by an instant-read thermometer. For extra flavor and moisture, baste the chicken a few times with the pan juices while baking.
  5. Serve: Once cooked through and golden, remove the chicken from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute in the meat for maximum tenderness and flavor.

Notes

  • Marinating the chicken for longer (up to 8 hours) enhances the flavor and tenderness.
  • Ensure the internal temperature reaches 175°F (80°C) to guarantee the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
  • Basting the chicken occasionally during baking helps keep it moist and adds extra flavor from the marinade.
  • This recipe pairs well with Greek sides like roasted potatoes, tzatziki, or a fresh Greek salad.
  • Bone-in thighs are preferred for juiciness and flavor, but boneless can be used with reduced cooking time.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Greek
  • Diet: Halal