Greek Lemon Chicken Thighs Recipe

Introduction

Greek Lemon Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish featuring tender chicken thighs marinated in a zesty blend of lemon, garlic, and herbs. This recipe delivers a deliciously aromatic and juicy meal perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

• 8 bone-in chicken thighs
• 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

1. Step 1: In a small bowl, stir together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, and black pepper to make the marinade.
2. Step 2: Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl and pour the marinade over them. Toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours, or up to 8 hours, to marinate.
3. Step 3: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Transfer the chicken and any remaining marinade into a baking dish, arranging the thighs skin-side up.
4. Step 4: Bake the chicken for 40 to 45 minutes, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 175°F (80°C). Baste the chicken a few times during cooking for extra flavor.
5. Step 5: For crispier skin, turn on the oven broiler for the last 2 to 3 minutes of cooking. Remove from oven and optionally garnish with lemon slices before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a brighter flavor.
• Marinate overnight for even more tender and flavorful chicken.
• Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh Greek salad for a complete meal.
• For a lighter version, use skinless chicken thighs but note that the skin adds crispiness and flavor.

Storage

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through, or microwave on medium power to avoid drying out the meat.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, boneless chicken breasts can be used, but they may cook faster and be less juicy. Adjust cooking time accordingly and watch for doneness.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?

Marinating enhances flavor and tenderness but is not strictly necessary. Even a short 30-minute marinade will improve the taste.

Greek Lemon Chicken Thighs Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 62 reviews

This Greek Lemon Chicken recipe features tender, juicy bone-in chicken thighs marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, and Dijon mustard, then baked to perfection with a crispy, golden skin. Perfect for a flavorful and easy weeknight dinner or a casual dinner party.

• Author: Leo
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour to 2 hours 15 minutes (including marinating time)
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Greek
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

1. Make the marinade: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well until the ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
2. Marinate the chicken: Place the bone-in chicken thighs in a large bowl and pour the marinade over them. Use your hands or a spoon to ensure all pieces are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 to 2 hours, or up to 8 hours for more intense flavor and tenderness.
3. Preheat the oven and prepare chicken: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Transfer the marinated chicken thighs into a baking dish in a single layer. Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken to keep it flavorful during baking.
4. Bake the chicken: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake the chicken for 40 to 45 minutes. Check that the internal temperature reaches 175°F (80°C) using an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked. Optionally, baste the chicken with the juices in the pan a few times during cooking to keep the meat moist.
5. Crisp the skin: For extra crispy skin, switch on the broiler for the last 2 to 3 minutes of baking, watching closely to prevent burning. Remove from oven once skin is golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve and garnish: Let the chicken rest a few minutes before serving. For a fresh finish, garnish with lemon slices if desired. Serve warm with your favorite side dishes.

Notes

• Marinating the chicken longer, up to 8 hours, will enhance the flavor and tenderness.
• If you don’t have bone-in thighs, skin-on thighs can also be used for similar results.
• Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright citrus flavor.
• Basting with pan juices helps keep the chicken moist during baking.
• The broiler step is optional but highly recommended for crispier skin.
• Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 175°F (80°C) for safe consumption.

Keywords: Greek lemon chicken, baked chicken thighs, lemon garlic chicken, Mediterranean chicken recipe, easy dinner, marinated chicken, crispy chicken skin