Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe

There's nothing quite like the zesty aroma of Greek Lemon Chicken wafting through your kitchen. With tender, golden chicken pieces bathed in a tangy lemon sauce, this dish is as vibrant as it is delicious. It's a perfect balance of fresh, citrusy notes and warm Mediterranean spices.

I first made this recipe for a family dinner, hoping to transport our taste buds straight to the Greek Isles. The result? An instant hit that’s now requested for every special occasion. Let’s dive in and see why this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You'll Love This Greek Lemon Chicken

Get ready to embrace the Mediterranean in every bite. Greek Lemon Chicken is a dish that not only tastes amazing but also fits beautifully into busy schedules and tight budgets.

First off, it’s incredibly quick and easy to prepare. With minimal prep work and one skillet, you can have dinner on the table in under 45 minutes – perfect for weeknights or last-minute entertaining.

The flavors are unforgettable. Juicy chicken is infused with fresh lemon juice, garlic, and oregano, creating a savory, tangy, and herbaceous combination that feels both light and comforting.

It’s also family-friendly and versatile. Whether served alongside roasted potatoes, over a bed of rice, or with warm pita bread, this dish adapts to every palate. Even picky eaters will love the tender, flavorful chicken!

And let’s not forget how healthy it is. Using lean chicken and fresh ingredients ensures a nutrient-packed meal that doesn't compromise on flavor.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Greek Lemon Chicken lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one adds a unique layer of flavor, creating a dish that's both delicious and authentic. Here's what you need to know about the key components:

• Chicken Thighs or Breasts: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe as they stay moist and develop a beautifully crisp skin. If you prefer, boneless chicken breasts are a lighter option that works just as well.
• Lemon Juice and Zest: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is non-negotiable for that authentic tang. The zest adds an extra citrus punch, enhancing the overall brightness of the dish.
• Garlic: Minced garlic is the backbone of this recipe, infusing the chicken and sauce with a warm, aromatic depth.
• Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for sautéing the chicken and adding richness to the sauce.
• Oregano and Thyme: These Mediterranean herbs are essential for authentic Greek flavor. Dried oregano is traditional, but fresh thyme sprigs can elevate the dish further.
• Chicken Broth: A splash of chicken broth helps create the sauce, adding a savory base that ties all the flavors together.

No special equipment is required – just a good skillet with a lid to lock in all that delicious flavor!

How To Make This Greek Lemon Chicken

Creating Greek Lemon Chicken is as easy as it is rewarding. Let’s break it down step by step so you can nail it every time.

1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry and season generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika for added color.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken skin-side down, letting it cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip and sear the other side for another 3 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. Build the Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Deglaze the pan with a splash of chicken broth, scraping up the browned bits for maximum flavor. Add fresh lemon juice, zest, oregano, and thyme.
4. Simmer the Chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet, skin-side up. Pour in the remaining chicken broth, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, basting occasionally to keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
5. Finish and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, remove it from the skillet. Let the sauce reduce slightly for a more concentrated flavor. Serve the chicken hot, drizzled with the tangy sauce and garnished with fresh parsley or dill.

In under an hour, you’ll have a dish that tastes like it’s straight from a Greek taverna.

Storage Options

Greek Lemon Chicken stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day.
• Freeze: For longer storage, place the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm the chicken gently on the stovetop or in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth to the sauce if it’s thickened too much during storage.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Here are some ways to adapt it to suit your tastes or ingredients on hand:

• Make It Dairy-Free: While this recipe doesn’t include cream, you can skip butter if you decide to add it for extra richness. Olive oil is more than enough to keep the sauce velvety.
• Switch Up the Herbs: Basil or rosemary can be substituted for thyme for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Add Veggies: Toss in chopped zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or artichoke hearts during the simmering stage for a complete one-pan meal.
• Use Boneless Chicken: If you prefer boneless cuts, adjust the cooking time to prevent overcooking.
• Try a Slow Cooker: For a hands-off version, sear the chicken as instructed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Now that you’ve seen how simple and delicious Greek Lemon Chicken can be, it’s time to grab your skillet and start cooking. Let this recipe become your go-to for everything from weeknight dinners to weekend feasts. One bite, and you’ll feel like you’re dining under the Mediterranean sun!

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