Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe

Looking for a mouthwatering dish that combines succulent chicken with the bright, tangy flavors of lemon and aromatic herbs? This Greek Lemon Chicken recipe is perfect for you! Follow along for the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to make this delightful dish that's sure to become a family favorite.

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What is Greek Lemon Chicken?

Greek Lemon Chicken is a traditional dish that features tender chicken marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs, then roasted to perfection. The result is a flavorful, juicy chicken with a crispy skin, complemented by the fresh, zesty taste of lemon. This dish is often served with roasted vegetables, potatoes, or a simple salad, making it a versatile and satisfying meal for any occasion.

Ingredients List for Greek Lemon Chicken

To make this delicious dish, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 lemons, juiced and zested
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ¼ cup dry white wine (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Ingredients List for Greek Lemon Chicken (continued)

• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges (optional)
• 1 red onion, cut into wedges (optional)
• 1 bell pepper, sliced (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)

Substitutions and Variations

Personalize your Greek Lemon Chicken with these substitutions and variations:

• Chicken Alternatives: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for a quicker cooking time, or a whole chicken for a more traditional presentation.
• Herbs and Spices: Replace dried herbs with fresh ones like oregano, thyme, and rosemary for a more intense flavor. Add a pinch of smoked paprika for an extra layer of taste.
• Vegetable Additions: Incorporate vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or cherry tomatoes to the roasting pan for added color and nutrition.
• Citrus Twist: Add a splash of orange juice or zest for a different citrus flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to create your Greek Lemon Chicken:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, ensuring they are well coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.
3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. Arrange the Chicken and Vegetables: If using, place the potato wedges, red onion wedges, and bell pepper slices in a roasting pan. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Arrange the marinated chicken thighs on top of the vegetables, skin side up.
5. Add Broth and Wine: Pour the chicken broth and white wine (if using) into the roasting pan around the chicken and vegetables.
6. Roast the Chicken: Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven and roast for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

How to Cook Greek Lemon Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating this dish involves a few simple steps that ensure your chicken is tender, flavorful, and perfectly cooked:

1. Marinate the Chicken: Marinating the chicken in lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs infuses it with intense flavors and helps tenderize the meat.
2. Arrange with Vegetables: Roasting the chicken on top of vegetables allows the flavors to meld together and makes for a complete meal.
3. Roast Until Golden: Roasting at a high temperature ensures the chicken skin becomes crispy while the meat remains juicy and tender.
4. Rest Before Serving: Letting the chicken rest after roasting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and moist dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Greek Lemon Chicken turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:

• Overcrowding the Pan: Ensure the chicken and vegetables are arranged in a single layer to promote even cooking and browning.
• Skipping the Marination: Don’t skip the marination step, as it is crucial for developing the rich, lemony flavor.
• Using Low Oven Temperature: Roasting at too low a temperature can result in soggy skin and unevenly cooked chicken. Stick to the recommended 400°F (200°C).
• Not Checking Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presenting your dish beautifully enhances the dining experience. Consider these tips for serving and presenting your Greek Lemon Chicken:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or thyme over the dish for a burst of color and added freshness.
• Serve with Complementary Sides: Pair the dish with a Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or rice pilaf to complete the meal.
• Use Elegant Serving Dishes: Serve the chicken and vegetables on a large platter to showcase the vibrant colors and make it easy for guests to help themselves.

How to Serve Greek Lemon Chicken

This versatile dish pairs well with various sides. Here are some serving ideas:

• With Greek Salad: Serve alongside a traditional Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, olives, and feta cheese for a refreshing accompaniment.
• With Roasted Potatoes: Roasted potatoes seasoned with lemon and herbs complement the flavors of the chicken perfectly.
• With Rice Pilaf: A fluffy rice pilaf makes a great base for soaking up the delicious lemony sauce.
• With Pita Bread: Warm pita bread is perfect for sopping up the flavorful juices from the chicken and vegetables.

Presentation Ideas for Greek Lemon Chicken

Enhance the visual appeal of your dish with these presentation ideas:

• Individual Plates: Arrange a chicken thigh on each plate with a generous serving of roasted vegetables and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
• Family-Style Serving: Present the chicken and vegetables on a large serving platter, garnished with lemon wedges and fresh herbs.
• Layered Presentation: Place the chicken on a bed of rice pilaf or alongside a Greek salad, then drizzle with extra lemon juice and olive oil.

Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe Tips

Keep these tips in mind for the best results:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice, garlic, and herbs enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
• Adjust the Acidity: Taste the marinade before adding the chicken and adjust the lemon juice or olive oil to balance the flavors.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Check the chicken periodically to prevent overcooking, especially if using smaller or boneless cuts.
• Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after roasting to retain its juices and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to roast.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken before roasting or freeze cooked leftovers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q: What wine pairs well with this dish?
A: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red wine like Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with the lemony flavors of this dish.

Q: Can I use boneless chicken?
A: Yes, boneless chicken breasts or thighs can be used, but adjust the cooking time accordingly as they will cook faster.

Conclusion

Greek Lemon Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, bright lemon flavors, and aromatic herbs for a truly satisfying meal. By following the detailed instructions, tips, and variations provided, you can create a dish that's sure to impress. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is a winner. Enjoy the process of cooking and savor the delicious results!

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