Name: Yummilicious Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe
Prep time: PT-488002H46M30S
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: PT-488002H46M30S
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 2 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks; 1/4 cup olive oil; juice and zest of 2 large lemons; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for garnish; lemon wedges for serving

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If you’re looking for a dish that’s guaranteed to make everyone at the table swoon, the Yummilicious Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe is your new secret weapon. Imagine juicy chicken infused with luscious lemon, aromatic herbs, and a sizzle of garlic, all roasted to golden perfection with spoonable pan juices you’ll want to drizzle over everything. This recipe delivers all the sunshine and flavor of the Mediterranean in every tender bite, and it never fails to brighten up any meal or gathering. Whether you’re a longtime lover of Greek cuisine Main Course.

Yummilicious Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how such a simple lineup of ingredients brings so much excitement to your plate. Each element plays its part to create the irresistible flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture of the Yummilicious Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

Chicken thighs or drumsticks (2 pounds, bone-in, skin-on): Bone-in, skin-on chicken delivers the juiciest results and gives you that irresistible crispy skin.
Olive oil (1/4 cup): This is the magical Mediterranean base that keeps the chicken moist and carries the flavors deep into the meat.
Lemon juice and zest (from 2 large lemons): Bright, tangy, and fresh, lemon is the heart of Greek cuisine and makes the whole dish sing.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Garlic adds a savory punch and depth that brings all the flavors together.
Dried oregano (2 teaspoons): Oregano brings earthy, aromatic Greek vibes—you really can’t skip it.
Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Thyme rounds out the herbs with a subtle complexity and loads of aroma.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Good seasoning makes every element shine and balances out the tanginess of the lemon.
Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): A little heat from black pepper brightens the chicken without overpowering it.
Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Paprika adds a hint of color and a mellow smoky flavor you’ll love.
Chicken broth (1/2 cup): This creates those golden pan juices that are perfect for spooning over the finished chicken.
Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a garden-fresh finish.
Lemon wedges (for serving): For that final burst of citrus, set out plenty of lemon wedges at the table.

How to Make Yummilicious Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Make the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, vibrant lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, and paprika. Don’t be shy about zesting both lemons — the zest is what gives the Yummilicious Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe its unmistakable fresh flavor. The marinade will smell absolutely incredible and set the stage for maximum flavor infusion.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Drop the chicken thighs or drumsticks into the bowl and toss until every piece is well coated. Cover tightly and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, but if you can plan ahead, marinating overnight works magic. This time allows all those lemony, herby, garlicky flavors to seep right into the chicken, so every bite sings.

Step 3: Prepare for Roasting

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Arrange the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer in a large baking dish or on a sheet pan. For the juiciest results, pour chicken broth around the pieces, not directly on top, so the crisp skin stays above the liquid while the meat stays moist and tender.

Step 4: Roast to Perfection

Slide the pan onto the center rack and roast for 35 to 40 minutes, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through — you’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F. The skin should be beautifully crisp, and you’ll see those fragrant pan juices bubbling away. If you love extra-crispy skin, pop the chicken under the broiler for the last 2 to 3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Step 5: Serve with Pan Juices

Spoon those garlicky, lemony pan juices right over the chicken before arranging everything on a platter. Sprinkle generously with fresh chopped parsley and hand out plenty of lemon wedges for squeezing. Get ready for the most irresistible aromas when you bring this Yummilicious Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe to the table!

How to Serve Yummilicious Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

The finishing touches matter! A cascade of freshly chopped parsley gives your chicken a welcoming pop of color and a hint of brightness. Don’t forget the lemon wedges — not just as a garnish, but as an invitation for everyone to add their own splash of tart freshness right before diving in.

Side Dishes

This chicken absolutely shines alongside classic Greek sides: roasted potatoes soak up pan juices like a dream, rice pilaf is ideal for sopping up the savory sauce, and a simple Greek salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, olives, and feta adds cool contrast. If you want a quick weeknight dinner, even a bit of crusty bread will make you very happy.

Creative Ways to Present

For family style dining, pile the chicken onto a big platter surrounded by lemon wedges and a sprinkle of parsley. For a fancier meal, pair each plate with a scoop of herbed rice or fluffy couscous, drizzle with the pan juices, and add a little extra sprinkle of paprika for added color. You can also pull the meat from the bones and serve it over a hearty salad or stuffed in pita bread with tzatziki for a fresh take on leftovers!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Yummilicious Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to include a bit of the pan juices, as this helps keep the chicken moist and just as flavorful as when it first came out of the oven.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this recipe freezes beautifully. Once cooled, pack the chicken (with a little sauce) in freezer-safe bags or containers. It’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge for best texture when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a covered baking dish with a splash of chicken broth or pan juices at 325°F, just until warmed through. This gentle method keeps the chicken from drying out and lets all those beautiful flavors shine. For extra crisp skin, try uncovering for the last few minutes of reheating.

FAQs

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely, though bone-in, skin-on pieces deliver the juiciest, crispiest results. If you go boneless and skinless, reduce baking time by about 10 minutes and keep a close watch. The flavors will still be lovely, though the texture of the Yummilicious Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe may be a tad different.

Is it necessary to marinate overnight?

While an overnight marinade gives you maximum flavor, even just an hour in the fridge transforms the chicken with that vibrant and zesty marinade. Busy cooks can still enjoy a delicious meal without waiting overnight.

Can I cook this on the grill instead of roasting?

Yes! This recipe adapts incredibly well to grilling. Set the chicken over medium heat and cook until done, flipping once. The grill gives a smokier flavor and gorgeous char, while still keeping that Yummilicious Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe essence.

Is this dish gluten-free?

It sure is! Every ingredient in the Yummilicious Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for anyone needing to avoid gluten, or for those who simply want a wholesome, clean meal.

What’s the best way to use up leftovers?

The leftover chicken can be shredded and tossed with salads, tucked into wrap sandwiches, or used as a protein boost for grain bowls. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so don’t be afraid to repurpose — you’ll thank yourself later!

Final Thoughts

If you want a meal that always impresses while being wonderfully easy, I can’t recommend the Yummilicious Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe enough. Invite your loved ones around the table, enjoy the magical aroma, and savor every lemony bite. You’re going to love how this recipe brings simple ingredients together for something truly special!

Yummilicious Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe

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4.6 from 19 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 55 minutes plus marinating time
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Yummilicious Greek Lemon Chicken recipe is a flavorful and aromatic dish that is sure to impress your guests. Tender chicken thighs marinated in a zesty lemon and herb mixture, then roasted to perfection for a mouthwatering meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken:

2 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks

Marinade:

1/4 cup olive oil
juice and zest of 2 large lemons
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika

Other:

1/2 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
lemon wedges for serving

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Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, and paprika. Add the chicken and toss to coat. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
Preheat and Roast: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Place the chicken in a baking dish, pour chicken broth around the pieces, and roast for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Finish and Serve: Spoon pan juices over the chicken, garnish with parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.