If you are searching for a flavorful and satisfying dinner that feels like a warm embrace from the Mediterranean, this Baked Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. With tender, juicy chicken thighs soaked in a vibrant marinade of lemon juice, garlic, fragrant herbs, and a touch of Dijon mustard, this dish captures the essence of Greek home cooking. It’s incredibly easy to make, full of fresh and lively flavors, and perfect for sharing with family or friends any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays an important role, coming together to create a dish bursting with bright, savory, and herbaceous notes. The combination is simple but powerful, giving the chicken a tender texture and a zesty, aromatic finish that’s hard to resist.
- 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These provide juicy, tender meat that absorbs the marinade beautifully.
- Juice of 2 lemons: Fresh lemon juice adds zing and tenderizes the chicken for ultimate flavor.
- ¼ cup olive oil: A staple in Greek cooking, olive oil helps keep the chicken moist and adds richness.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic punches up the savory profile with a fragrant kick.
- 3 teaspoons Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang and depth, perfectly complementing the lemon.
- 3 teaspoons dried oregano: The quintessential Greek herb, offering earthy and slightly bitter undertones.
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme: A slight minty note that enhances the herbal complexity.
- 1 teaspoon dried dill: Adds a fresh, almost sweet nuance to the marinade.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Brings a gentle smokiness and warm color to the chicken.
- 2-3 teaspoons salt: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a faint heat and sharpness to finish the seasoning.
How to Make Baked Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by placing your chicken thighs in a spacious bowl or a ziplock bag. In another bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, oregano, thyme, dill, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour this vibrant marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl or seal the bag and let it chill in the refrigerator for anywhere from 2 to 6 hours. This step infuses the chicken with bright, tangy, and herbal flavors while tenderizing the meat for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Step 2: Preheat and Arrange
When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade and arrange the thighs in a single layer in a baking dish. Don’t discard the remaining marinade; pour it over the chicken. This keeps all that luscious flavor bathing the meat as it bakes, which makes for a juicy and aromatic result.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Bake the chicken for about 40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches between 165 and 175°F, meaning the meat is cooked through yet still moist. For a beautiful golden finish with some caramelized edges, switch on the broiler for the last 2 to 3 minutes. Keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn—this quick broil brings a lovely color and subtle crispiness to the top layer.
How to Serve Baked Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your Baked Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe with freshly chopped parsley or dill brightens up the plate and adds an herbaceous freshness that pairs perfectly with the zesty lemon flavors. A few thin slices of lemon sprinkled atop bring a cheerful, vibrant look and an extra burst of citrus aroma.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs beautifully with traditional Greek sides like roasted potatoes tossed in olive oil and herbs, a simple cucumber and tomato salad dressed with olive oil and red wine vinegar, or creamy tzatziki for a cool, refreshing contrast. You can also serve it alongside fluffy rice or warm pita bread to soak up all the delicious juices.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this chicken on a bed of cooked orzo mixed with fresh herbs and lemon zest. Alternatively, present it with a Mediterranean grain salad featuring olives, feta, and sun-dried tomatoes. This makes the meal feel even more vibrant and festive, perfect for impressing guests at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Baked Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen after resting, making tasty lunches or quick dinners during the week.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken thighs by wrapping them tightly or placing them in freezer-safe bags or containers. They will maintain good quality for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat your chicken gently in an oven set to 325°F, covered with foil to retain moisture. Alternatively, warming on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth helps keep the meat tender. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it might dry out the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, though they tend to be leaner and can dry out faster. Keep an eye on cooking time and consider reducing the bake time slightly to prevent dryness.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinating for at least 2 hours is ideal to let the flavors permeate, but 6 hours or even overnight will deepen the taste and tenderize the chicken beautifully.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! All the ingredients in this Baked Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for gluten-free diets.
Can I prepare this recipe without mustard?
If you don’t have Dijon mustard on hand, you can omit it, but it adds a nice tanginess and depth. A small amount of honey or Greek yogurt can be used as a mild substitute.
What wine pairs well with this dish?
Try a crisp, bright white wine like Assyrtiko or Sauvignon Blanc. The acidity complements the lemon and herbs while refreshing your palate between bites.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe is a true delight that elevates simple ingredients into a dish full of sunshine and Mediterranean charm. Whether for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious journey to Greece right from your own kitchen.
Print
Baked Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
Description
This Baked Greek Lemon Chicken recipe features succulent, boneless chicken thighs marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, and classic Greek herbs like oregano, thyme, and dill. The marinade infuses the chicken with vibrant Mediterranean flavors that bake to juicy perfection, making it a simple yet flavorful main dish perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Marinade
- Juice of 2 lemons
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 3 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2–3 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl or a ziplock bag. In a separate bowl, combine the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, oregano, thyme, dill, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients until fully blended. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl or seal the bag, then refrigerate for 2 to 6 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer in a baking dish. Pour any remaining marinade evenly over the chicken to keep it moist during baking.
- Bake Chicken: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches between 165°F and 175°F, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.
- Broil for Color (Optional): For an appealing golden color and slightly crisp edges, turn on the broiler and broil the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes at the end of cooking. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain juices and enhances flavor. Serve warm, paired with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables or a fresh Greek salad.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for at least 2 hours enhances the flavor and tenderness.
- Baking at 350°F ensures even cooking without drying out the chicken.
- Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken reaches 165°F internally for safe consumption.
- Broiling briefly adds a nice color and crispy texture but requires close attention.
- This recipe can be doubled or halved based on serving needs.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
