Name: Baked Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 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

This Baked Greek Lemon Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual gathering. Tender and juicy chicken thighs are marinated in a vibrant blend of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs, then baked to perfection. It’s a simple yet satisfying recipe that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful and Aromatic: The marinade infuses the chicken with a delicious blend of Greek flavors, with the brightness of lemon, the pungency of garlic, and the herbaceous notes of oregano, thyme, and dill.
Easy to Make: This recipe is incredibly simple to prepare, with minimal ingredients and a straightforward baking method.
Healthy and Versatile: Baking the chicken instead of frying it makes this a healthier option. You can also easily customize the marinade with your favorite herbs and spices.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Baked Greek Lemon Chicken:

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are more flavorful and juicy than chicken breasts for this recipe.
Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness and acidity to the marinade.
Olive oil: Helps to tenderize the chicken and adds richness to the marinade.
Garlic: Minced, for aromatic depth.
Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy kick to the marinade.
Dried oregano, thyme, and dill: A blend of classic Greek herbs that adds a warm and savory flavor.
Paprika: Adds a touch of color and smoky flavor.
Salt and black pepper: To taste.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Baked Greek Lemon Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl or a ziplock bag. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, oregano, thyme, dill, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure all the pieces are well coated. Cover the bowl or seal the bag, and refrigerate for 2-6 hours to allow the chicken to marinate and absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Bake the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer in a large baking dish. Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken. Bake for 40 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165-175°F. For extra color, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.

Step 3: Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as rice, potatoes, or a salad.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Marinate longer for more flavor: If you have time, marinate the chicken for longer, up to overnight, for a more intense flavor.
Use a meat thermometer: A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure that the chicken is cooked through.
Adjust the seasoning: Taste the marinade and adjust the amount of salt, pepper, or herbs to your liking.

How to Serve Baked Greek Lemon Chicken

Weeknight Meal: This Baked Greek Lemon Chicken is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
Special Occasion: Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a Greek salad for a more elegant meal.
Lunch or Brunch: Enjoy it for lunch or brunch with a side of rice pilaf or a fresh salad.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may be more prone to drying out during baking. Cook them for a shorter time or add a little extra liquid to the baking dish to prevent them from drying out.

Can I make this dish without marinating the chicken?
While marinating is recommended for optimal flavor, you can skip it if you’re short on time. Simply season the chicken with the herbs and spices before baking.

Can I add other ingredients to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables, such as sliced onions, bell peppers, or potatoes, to the baking dish along with the chicken.

How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper to the marinade.

There you have it! A delicious and easy-to-make recipe for Baked Greek Lemon Chicken that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

Stacy Corbo

Hi, I’m Stacy Corbo! From quick dinners to family favorites, I’m here to help you bring joy to the table, one recipe at a time.

Baked Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe