Description
Mediterranean flavors shine in classic Greek lemon chicken, a succulent dish that combines zesty citrus with tender poultry. Garlic, oregano, and olive oil create a simple yet profound marinade that delivers authentic Greek culinary magic for home cooks.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts (or thighs), boneless, skinless
- ¼ cup (60 ml) olive oil
- ¼ cup (60 ml) lemon juice, fresh (about 1–2 lemons)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 lemon zest
- parsley, fresh, chopped
- lemon slices
Instructions
- Marinade Creation: Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper into a harmonious, aromatic blend that promises vibrant Mediterranean flavors.
- Chicken Preparation: Submerge chicken pieces entirely in the zesty herb marinade within a sealed container, ensuring comprehensive coating and flavor absorption for 30 minutes to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
- Oven Preheating: Configure oven to 400F (200C) and prepare a spacious baking dish that allows chicken pieces to rest without overcrowding, promoting uniform heat distribution.
- Roasting Process: Transfer marinated chicken to the baking dish, positioning pieces strategically for optimal heat exposure, and roast for 25-30 minutes until internal temperature reaches a safe 165F (74C), yielding succulent, golden-brown meat.
- Finishing Touches: Extract chicken from oven, allowing a brief resting period for juice redistribution, then garnish with freshly chopped parsley and delicate lemon slices, presenting a visually stunning Mediterranean centerpiece.
- Serving Suggestion: Accompany the aromatic lemon chicken with traditional sides like fragrant rice, crispy roasted potatoes, or a vibrant Greek salad, completing an authentic culinary experience.
Notes
Maximize Marinade Flavor: Puncture chicken with a fork before marinating to help herbs and lemon penetrate deeper, creating more intense taste throughout the meat.
Prevent Dryness: Let chicken sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before roasting to ensure even cooking and prevent tough, dry texture.
Temperature Control: Use a meat thermometer for precise doneness, avoiding overcooking while guaranteeing food safety at the recommended 165F internal temperature.
Gluten-Free Adaptation: Ensure all marinade ingredients are certified gluten-free, making this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities by carefully checking herb and seasoning labels.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 319
- Sugar: 0.4 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 19 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg