Greek Lemon Chicken (Easy Mediterranean Dinner Recipe)

Greek Lemon Chicken is one of those timeless dishes that proves simple ingredients can create unforgettable flavor. With juicy chicken thighs marinated in olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic, and classic Greek herbs, this recipe delivers everything you want from Mediterranean cooking: brightness, warmth, comfort, and balance. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, planning meals ahead, or serving guests, Greek Lemon Chicken is reliable, satisfying, and deeply flavorful without being complicated.

This oven-baked version of Greek Lemon Chicken is especially appealing because it requires very little hands-on work. A quick marinade does most of the heavy lifting, infusing the chicken with tangy citrus, savory herbs, and rich olive oil. Once baked, the chicken turns golden on the outside while staying tender and juicy on the inside. The pan juices alone are enough to spoon over rice, potatoes, or vegetables, making this a complete, crave-worthy meal.

In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know to make the best Greek Lemon Chicken at home—from ingredient selection and marinating tips to serving ideas, variations, and storage. If you’re searching for a Greek Lemon Chicken recipe that’s both authentic in flavor and practical for everyday cooking, you’re in exactly the right place.

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Why Greek Lemon Chicken Is So Popular

Greek Lemon Chicken has earned its place as a staple in kitchens around the world, and for good reason. It’s rooted in traditional Greek flavors but adapts beautifully to modern home cooking. The combination of lemon, olive oil, garlic, and herbs is unmistakably Mediterranean, offering freshness without heaviness and richness without excess.

Another reason Greek Lemon Chicken is so beloved is its versatility. It works just as well for a casual family dinner as it does for entertaining. You can serve it with roasted potatoes for a hearty meal, pair it with a crisp Greek salad for something lighter, or tuck it into meal-prep containers for easy lunches throughout the week.

Unlike many baked chicken recipes that risk drying out, Greek Lemon Chicken stays juicy thanks to the marinade and the use of bone-in, skin-on thighs. The natural fats in the chicken and olive oil help lock in moisture while enhancing flavor. The result is chicken that tastes slow-cooked and deeply seasoned, even though it comes together with minimal effort.

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What Makes This Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe Special

This Greek Lemon Chicken recipe focuses on balance and simplicity. Every ingredient has a purpose, and nothing overpowers the dish.

• Fresh lemon juice provides acidity and brightness that cuts through the richness of the chicken.

• Extra-virgin olive oil adds body, depth, and a silky mouthfeel.

• Garlic brings savory intensity without overwhelming the lemon.

• Dried oregano and thyme deliver that unmistakable Greek aroma and earthiness.

• Dijon mustard adds subtle sharpness and helps emulsify the marinade.

• Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs ensure juicy meat and crispy, flavorful skin.

Together, these elements create a Greek Lemon Chicken that tastes authentic, comforting, and deeply satisfying—without requiring specialty ingredients or advanced techniques.

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Ingredients for Greek Lemon Chicken

One of the best things about Greek Lemon Chicken is how approachable the ingredient list is. Everything you need can be found at most grocery stores, yet the final dish tastes layered and complex.

Main Ingredients

• 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  These are ideal for Greek Lemon Chicken because they stay moist and flavorful during baking.

• ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil
  Use a good-quality olive oil for the best flavor.

• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
  Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential for authentic Greek Lemon Chicken.

• 4 garlic cloves, minced
  Garlic adds depth and savoriness.

• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  Oregano is a signature herb in Greek cooking.

• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
  Thyme complements the oregano with a slightly earthy note.

• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  This adds subtle tang and helps bind the marinade.

• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  Enhances flavor and helps tenderize the chicken.

• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  Adds mild heat and complexity.

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How to Make Greek Lemon Chicken

This Greek Lemon Chicken recipe is designed to be straightforward and forgiving, making it perfect for cooks of all skill levels.

Step 1: Make the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, and black pepper. The marinade should look slightly thick and emulsified, with the oil and lemon juice fully combined.

This marinade is the heart of Greek Lemon Chicken. Taking a minute to whisk it well ensures every bite is evenly seasoned.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl or resealable bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken and toss until every piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. For deeper, more developed flavor, marinate for up to 8 hours.

Even a short marinating time makes a big difference, but longer marination allows the lemon, garlic, and herbs to fully penetrate the meat.

Step 3: Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a baking dish, skin-side up. Pour any remaining marinade over the top to ensure nothing goes to waste.

Spacing the chicken properly helps it cook evenly and promotes better browning.

Step 4: Bake the Greek Lemon Chicken

Bake the chicken for 40–45 minutes, until fully cooked and tender. The internal temperature should reach 175°F (80°C) for thighs. During baking, you can baste the chicken once or twice with the pan juices for extra moisture and flavor.

Step 5: Optional Crisping

If you prefer extra crispy skin, switch the oven to broil for the last 2–3 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning. This step adds irresistible texture to the Greek Lemon Chicken.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.

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Tips for the Best Greek Lemon Chicken

Making excellent Greek Lemon Chicken is easy, but a few tips can take it from good to unforgettable.

• Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for maximum juiciness and flavor.

• Always use fresh lemon juice. Bottled juice lacks the brightness needed for authentic Greek Lemon Chicken.

• Don’t rush the marinade. Even one hour improves flavor, but longer is better.

• Baste during baking if you want extra moisture and richness.

• Let the chicken rest before serving to keep it juicy.

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Greek Lemon Chicken Variations

Greek Lemon Chicken is wonderfully adaptable. Here are a few variations to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

Greek Lemon Chicken with Potatoes

Add quartered potatoes directly to the baking dish. Toss them in a bit of olive oil, salt, and oregano. They’ll soak up the lemony pan juices and become tender and flavorful.

Greek Lemon Chicken with Vegetables

Add bell peppers, zucchini, red onions, or cherry tomatoes to the pan for a complete one-dish meal.

Boneless Greek Lemon Chicken

You can use boneless, skinless thighs or breasts if preferred. Reduce cooking time to avoid drying out the meat.

Spicy Greek Lemon Chicken

Add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the marinade for gentle heat.

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What to Serve with Greek Lemon Chicken

Greek Lemon Chicken pairs beautifully with both simple and elaborate sides.

• Roasted potatoes or lemon rice

• Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta

• Steamed or roasted vegetables

• Warm pita bread or flatbread

• Tzatziki or yogurt-based sauces

The pan juices alone can act as a sauce, tying the entire meal together.

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Storage and Reheating

Greek Lemon Chicken stores and reheats exceptionally well, making it ideal for leftovers and meal prep.

Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating

• Reheat in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until warmed through.

• Alternatively, reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth.

• Avoid microwaving at high power, which can dry out the chicken.

Print

Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 404 kcal

• Protein: 24 g

• Fat: 33 g

• Carbohydrates: 2 g

• Saturated Fat: 8 g

• Cholesterol: 142 mg

• Sodium: 707 mg

• Potassium: 325 mg

• Fiber: 1 g

• Sugar: 0.3 g

Greek Lemon Chicken fits well into many balanced eating styles, especially Mediterranean-inspired diets.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Greek Lemon Chicken

Can I make Greek Lemon Chicken ahead of time?

Yes. You can marinate the chicken up to 8 hours in advance or fully cook it and reheat later.

Is Greek Lemon Chicken healthy?

Greek Lemon Chicken is rich in protein and healthy fats from olive oil, making it a nutritious option when paired with vegetables or whole grains.

Can I grill Greek Lemon Chicken?

Absolutely. This marinade works beautifully for grilling—just watch for flare-ups due to the oil.

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Final Thoughts on Greek Lemon Chicken

Greek Lemon Chicken is the kind of recipe that earns a permanent place in your rotation. It’s simple enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests. The flavors are bold but balanced, comforting but fresh, and deeply satisfying without feeling heavy. Every bite delivers bright lemon, fragrant herbs, savory garlic, and juicy, tender chicken—everything you expect from a classic Mediterranean dish.

What makes Greek Lemon Chicken truly special is how effortlessly it brings people together. It’s the type of meal that fills the kitchen with inviting aromas, draws everyone to the table, and leaves plates clean and satisfied. Whether served with rustic potatoes, crisp salad, or warm bread, it always feels complete.