Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and black pepper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, and oregano. Reserve 2 tablespoons of the marinade for later.
2. Marinate the Chicken
- Place the chicken in a large bowl or zip-top bag and pour the marinade over it. Toss to coat evenly.
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator) for maximum flavor.
3. Prepare the Potatoes (Optional)
- In a separate bowl, toss the potato wedges and onion slices with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and oregano until well coated.
4. Assemble and Bake
- Arrange the marinated chicken pieces in a large baking dish or roasting pan, skin-side up.
- If using potatoes, scatter them around the chicken in the same dish.
- Pour the reserved marinade and optional white wine over the chicken and potatoes for extra moisture and flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown, the skin is crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Finish and Serve
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional lemon slices for presentation.
- Serve hot with the roasted potatoes, rice, or a side salad.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with Greek salad (cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, feta, and olive oil) for a refreshing contrast.
- Serve over lemon rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Add a dollop of tzatziki or yogurt on the side for a cooling accompaniment.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use Bone-In Chicken: Bone-in, skin-on chicken stays juicier and develops a crispier skin when baked.
- Don’t Skip the Zest: Lemon zest adds a concentrated burst of citrus flavor that complements the juice beautifully.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to toss in carrots, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes along with the potatoes for a one-pan meal.
- Make Ahead: Marinate the chicken up to a day in advance for deeper flavor. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Greek Lemon Chicken is a celebration of bold, fresh flavors with its zesty lemon-garlic marinade and fragrant oregano. Whether you’re craving a taste of the Mediterranean or simply looking for a healthy, flavorful dish, this recipe delivers big-time satisfaction. The combination of tender chicken, crispy skin, and tangy sauce makes it a standout meal that’s as comforting as it is impressive.
So grab your lemons, garlic, and olive oil, and whip up this sunny, soul-warming dish. One bite of this juicy, citrus-infused chicken, and you’ll feel like you’re dining seaside in Greece! 🍋🍗