Baked Greek Lemon Chicken
If you’re craving a flavorful and easy-to-make dinner, look no further than this Baked Greek Lemon Chicken! This dish features juicy chicken thighs marinated in a zesty lemon, garlic, and herb mixture, then baked to perfection. It’s a bright and fresh meal that’s packed with Mediterranean flavor, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.
What makes Baked Greek Lemon Chicken so delicious?
- Zesty Lemon Marinade: The tangy lemon juice adds a refreshing brightness to the chicken, perfectly complemented by garlic and herbs.
- Herb-Infused Flavor: Fresh oregano and rosemary infuse the chicken with a delightful Mediterranean flavor, making every bite flavorful and aromatic.
- Simple and Healthy: Baked, not fried, this chicken is a healthy choice that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ready to make your own Baked Greek Lemon Chicken? Here’s a simple recipe that’s sure to impress:
Recipe: Baked Greek Lemon Chicken
Ingredients:
- 6 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs (or 4 boneless thighs)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano leaves (or 1 tablespoon dried oregano)
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Lemon slices (for garnish, optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, rosemary, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake the Chicken:
- Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer in a baking dish. Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The skin should be golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Garnish and Serve:
- If desired, garnish with fresh lemon slices and chopped parsley for a burst of color and extra flavor.
- Serve the chicken with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, a fresh Greek salad, or rice.
This Baked Greek Lemon Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table. Enjoy every juicy, zesty bite! 🍋🍗
