If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and comforting warmth, this Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe is an absolute must-try. Juicy bone-in chicken thighs marinated in a bright, zesty blend of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, then baked to perfection, create a harmonious balance of tangy and savory that feels both timeless and fresh. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe delivers a delicious crowd-pleaser with minimal fuss and maximum taste. You’ll love how simple ingredients come together to create something truly unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is the first step to achieving that classic Greek flavor profile everyone raves about. Each element plays a key role—olive oil adds richness, lemon juice lends brightness, and the herbs bring fragrant warmth, making every bite memorable.
- 8 bone-in chicken thighs: Choose skin-on for beautifully crispy edges and juicy meat.
- ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil: A fundamental Greek staple that enriches the marinade and keeps chicken moist.
- ¼ cup lemon juice: The star ingredient delivering the perfect tang to brighten the dish.
- 4 garlic cloves (minced): Adds bold and aromatic depth that’s essential in Greek cooking.
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano: A classic herb that brings authentic Mediterranean flavor.
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme: Offers a subtle earthiness balancing the lemony brightness.
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard: Provides a gentle kick and helps emulsify the marinade.
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt: Enhances all flavors while seasoning the chicken perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a mild heat to round out the seasoning.
How to Make Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Make the Marinade
Start by whisking together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, and ground black pepper in a small bowl. This marinade is where the magic begins—each ingredient layers flavor so the chicken takes on that signature Greek taste.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs into a large bowl and pour the marinade over them, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but letting it sit for up to 8 hours allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, making the chicken irresistibly flavorful and tender.
Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish
When you’re ready, preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a baking dish, pouring any leftover marinade on top to keep the chicken juicy as it cooks. This step sets the stage for roasting the chicken to golden perfection.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Bake the chicken for 40 to 45 minutes until fully cooked through, checking for an internal temperature of 175°F (80°C). For extra indulgence, baste the chicken occasionally with its own juices during baking to keep the meat succulent. If crispy skin is your dream, turn on the oven’s broiler for the last 2 to 3 minutes—watch closely so it doesn’t burn. A few lemon slices on top while baking also add a fresh burst and pretty presentation for guests.
How to Serve Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Simple yet effective, garnishes can elevate this dish visually and flavor-wise. Fresh lemon wedges, a sprinkle of chopped parsley or oregano, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil fresh out of the oven add brightness and a touch of green color that welcomes you to the plate.
Side Dishes
This Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Try serving it alongside fluffy couscous, fragrant roasted vegetables, or a crisp Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, feta, and olives for a complete Mediterranean feast. Creamy mashed potatoes or lemony rice pilaf also make excellent companions.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress? Serve the chicken on a bed of herbed orzo or alongside grilled pita bread and tzatziki sauce for dipping. Layer the chicken over a platter of mixed greens drizzled with a light vinaigrette for a lighter presentation. Adding colorful roasted peppers or olives around the edges offers visual appeal and extra bursts of flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, wrap leftover Greek Lemon Chicken tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, retaining much of its flavor and juiciness for quick meals or snacks.
Freezing
This dish freezes wonderfully. Place cooled chicken pieces in a freezer-safe container or bag with some of the marinade to prevent drying out. Frozen leftovers can last up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently to preserve moisture and crisp skin. Use an oven set to 325°F (165°C) and heat for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave on a lower setting, but the oven method best keeps the juicy texture and roasted flavor intact.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used, but keep in mind they tend to cook faster and may not have quite as much flavor or moisture as thighs. Adjust cooking times accordingly and consider marinating longer for tenderness.
Is it necessary to marinate overnight?
While 1 to 2 hours is sufficient to impart good flavor, marinating overnight or up to 8 hours will deepen the taste and make the chicken more tender. If time is tight, even 30 minutes is better than no marinade at all.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free and gluten-free?
Yes! The Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe is naturally dairy-free and gluten-free as it uses simple ingredients like lemon, herbs, and olive oil. Just be sure any side dishes you pair it with fit your dietary needs.
What can I substitute for Dijon mustard?
If you don’t have Dijon mustard on hand, a small amount of yellow mustard or whole grain mustard will work fine. It helps emulsify the marinade and adds mild tanginess.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The most reliable way is to check the internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer; it should read 175°F (80°C) for juicy, fully cooked chicken thighs. The meat should also run clear when pierced near the bone.
Final Thoughts
This Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorite go-to meals for its incredible balance of bright, tangy flavors and hearty, comforting meatiness. It’s simple to prepare yet impressive in taste and presentation, perfect for everyday dinners or special occasions. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own classic to share with friends and family.
Print
Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes plus marinating time
- Yield: 8 pieces
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Greek Lemon Chicken recipe features bone-in chicken thighs marinated in a flavorful blend of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and Mediterranean herbs. Baked to perfection, it offers tender, juicy meat with a crisp, golden skin, making it a perfect main dish for family dinners or entertaining guests.
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
- Make the marinade: In a small bowl, stir together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Cover and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours, or up to 8 hours to deepen the flavors.
- Transfer to baking dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer in a baking dish. Pour any remaining marinade over the top to keep the chicken moist and flavorful during baking.
- Bake the chicken: Place the baking dish in the oven and cook the chicken for 40 to 45 minutes. Use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness—it should register 175°F (80°C) when fully cooked. Optionally, baste the chicken a few times during cooking to enhance moisture and flavor. For crispier skin, switch on the oven’s top broiler for the last 2 to 3 minutes of cooking. Garnish with fresh lemon slices if desired before serving.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for longer (up to 8 hours) enhances the flavor and tenderness.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked for safe consumption.
- Basting the chicken during baking helps keep it moist and flavorful.
- Broiling briefly at the end crisps the skin nicely without drying the meat.
- Serve with lemon slices or fresh herbs like parsley for a bright, fresh finish.
