Baked Greek Lemon Chicken
Welcome to this delicious recipe for Baked Greek Lemon Chicken! If you’re looking for a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that will transport your taste buds to the shores of Greece, then you’re in for a treat. This recipe combines the bright and refreshing flavors of lemon, garlic, and herbs with tender and juicy chicken. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to love this Baked Greek Lemon Chicken. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have a mouthwatering meal on the table in no time. The combination of lemon, garlic, and herbs creates a flavor profile that is both bright and comforting. Plus, this recipe is versatile and can be enjoyed by those following a gluten-free or dairy-free diet.
Ingredients
For the chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken thighs and drumsticks in a baking dish, and pour the marinade over them. Use your hands to ensure that the chicken is coated evenly.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Once the chicken has marinated, remove the foil and place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon wedges.
Expert Tips for Success
For the juiciest and most flavorful chicken, it’s important to marinate it for at least 30 minutes. This allows the chicken to absorb the flavors of the garlic, lemon, and herbs. If you have more time, you can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours for even more flavor.
To ensure crispy skin, you can broil the chicken for a couple of minutes after baking. This will give it a beautiful golden brown color and an extra crunch.
If you don’t have bone-in chicken thighs and drumsticks, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken legs. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as boneless chicken will cook faster.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few ideas:
– Add some sliced red onions and bell peppers to the baking dish for a colorful and flavorful twist.
– Swap the dried herbs for fresh ones. Use 1 tablespoon of fresh oregano and 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme.
– If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
– For a dairy-free option, skip the garnish of fresh parsley and serve with a sprinkle of dried oregano instead.
Serving Suggestions
This Baked Greek Lemon Chicken pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:
– Serve it with a side of Greek salad for a refreshing and light option.
– Pair it with roasted potatoes and steamed vegetables for a more substantial meal.
– Enjoy it with a side of tzatziki sauce and warm pita bread for a Greek-inspired feast.
FAQs
Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken legs. Just keep in mind that boneless chicken will cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, simply preheat the oven and bake as directed.
Q: How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
A: The best way to ensure that the chicken is cooked through is to use an instant-read thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Final Thoughts
There you have it – a delicious recipe for Baked Greek Lemon Chicken that will take your taste buds on a Mediterranean journey. With its bright and refreshing flavors, tender and juicy chicken, and easy preparation, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. So go ahead, give it a try, and let your guests savor every bite!
Baked Greek Lemon Chicken
Delicious and easy-to-make Baked Greek Lemon Chicken recipe that combines the bright and refreshing flavors of lemon, garlic, and herbs with tender and juicy chicken. Perfect for a family dinner or dinner party.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for garnish)
Directions
-
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
-
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
-
Place the chicken thighs and drumsticks in a baking dish, and pour the marinade over them. Use your hands to ensure that the chicken is coated evenly.
-
Cover the baking dish with foil and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
-
Once the chicken has marinated, remove the foil and place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
-
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
-
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
-
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon wedges.