Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe

Looking for a dish that's bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors and easy to prepare? Greek Lemon Chicken is a perfect choice. This classic dish combines tender chicken with a zesty lemon and herb marinade, creating a meal that's both delicious and nutritious. Read on to learn how to make this delightful recipe, complete with tips and variations to suit your tastes.

What is Greek Lemon Chicken?

Greek Lemon Chicken is a traditional Mediterranean dish that features chicken marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs. The chicken is then baked until golden and juicy, often accompanied by potatoes and other vegetables that soak up the flavorful marinade. This dish is known for its bright, tangy flavors and aromatic herbs, making it a favorite for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients List for Greek Lemon Chicken

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• ⅓ cup olive oil
• ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Roasted Vegetables:

• 4 medium potatoes, cut into wedges
• 1 red onion, cut into wedges
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges

Substitutions and Variations

Feel free to customize this Greek Lemon Chicken recipe to fit your dietary needs or personal preferences. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

• Chicken Thighs: Instead of chicken breasts, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful alternative.
• Low-Fat Option: Use skinless chicken breasts and reduce the amount of olive oil in the marinade.
• Vegan Version: Replace chicken with firm tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for the marinade.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the marinade for some heat.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Creating Greek Lemon Chicken involves a few straightforward steps. Follow this guide to achieve a perfect dish every time.

1. Prepare the Marinade:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
   • Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
3. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • Place the potato wedges, red onion, bell pepper, and zucchini on a large baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
5. Bake the Chicken and Vegetables:
   • Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the baking sheet with the vegetables. Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken and vegetables.
   • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender and golden.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

How to Cook Greek Lemon Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Mix together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and dried herbs to create a flavorful marinade. This mixture infuses the chicken with vibrant Mediterranean flavors.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Allow them to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it's ready for baking the chicken and vegetables.

Step 4: Prepare the Vegetables

Cut the potatoes, red onion, bell pepper, and zucchini into wedges and slices. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken and Vegetables

Arrange the marinated chicken on the baking sheet with the vegetables. Pour any leftover marinade over the top and bake until everything is cooked through and golden.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Marinating Long Enough: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, aim for a few hours.
2. Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Ensure there's enough space on the baking sheet for the chicken and vegetables to cook evenly.
3. Skipping the Rest Time: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to retain its juices and enhance the flavor.

Serving and Presentation Tips

For a restaurant-quality presentation, follow these serving tips to impress your guests:

• Garnish Generously: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken for a burst of color and freshness.
• Serve with Sides: Pair Greek Lemon Chicken with a side of Greek salad, tzatziki sauce, or warm pita bread.
• Use Elegant Dishware: Present the chicken and vegetables on a large white platter to make the vibrant colors stand out.

How to Serve Greek Lemon Chicken

Serve Greek Lemon Chicken hot from the oven, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides such as Greek salad, roasted potatoes, or a light couscous salad. For a complete Mediterranean meal, consider adding a side of tzatziki sauce and warm pita bread.

Presentation Ideas for Greek Lemon Chicken

Elevate your dining experience with these presentation ideas:

• Layer the Ingredients: Arrange the chicken and roasted vegetables neatly on a serving platter, drizzling any remaining pan juices over the top.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an extra touch of elegance.
• Use Colorful Vegetables: Incorporate a variety of colorful vegetables like red bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and green zucchini to make the dish visually appealing.

Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe Tips

• Prep Ahead: Prepare the marinade and chop the vegetables in advance to save time when cooking.
• Double the Recipe: Make a double batch and save leftovers for an easy lunch or dinner the next day.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste the marinade before adding the chicken and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe? A: Yes, bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks work well and may offer even more flavor. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it? A: Absolutely! Marinate the chicken as directed, then grill over medium-high heat until cooked through.

Q: What can I use instead of fresh lemon juice? A: Bottled lemon juice can be used, but fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to the dish? A: Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, carrots, or Brussels sprouts to the baking sheet.

Conclusion

Greek Lemon Chicken is a flavorful and healthy dish that's perfect for any occasion. With its zesty lemon marinade and aromatic herbs, this recipe brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your table. Follow our step-by-step guide, avoid common mistakes, and use our serving tips to create a meal that's as visually appealing as it is delicious. Try this recipe and enjoy the taste of Greece in your own home. Kali orexi!

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