Baked Greek Lemon Chicken


Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and black pepper.
  2. 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

  1. Place the chicken in a large bowl or zip-top bag and pour the marinade over it. Toss to coat evenly.
  2. 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)

  1. 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

  1. Arrange the marinated chicken pieces in a large baking dish or roasting pan, skin-side up.
  2. If using potatoes, scatter them around the chicken in the same dish.
  3. Pour the reserved marinade and optional white wine over the chicken and potatoes for extra moisture and flavor.
  4. 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

  1. Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
  2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional lemon slices for presentation.
  3. 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! 🍋🍗