Description
This Baked Greek Lemon Chicken is a flavorful and zesty dish featuring tender chicken thighs marinated in a blend of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and classic Greek herbs. Baked to juicy perfection and optionally broiled for a crispy golden finish, it’s a perfect meal for a family dinner or gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- Juice of 2 lemons
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 3 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2-3 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: In a large bowl or ziplock bag, combine the chicken thighs with lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, dried thyme, dried dill, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure each piece is well coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for 2 to 6 hours to allow the flavors to infuse the chicken.
- Preheat the Oven: About 15 minutes before baking, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) to ensure even cooking.
- Arrange Chicken in Baking Dish: Place the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer in a baking dish. Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken to keep it moist and flavorful during cooking.
- Bake the Chicken: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches between 165-175°F (74-79°C), ensuring it is safely cooked and still juicy.
- Broil for Color (Optional): For a more golden brown and slightly crispy top, switch to the broil setting for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for longer (up to 6 hours) will enhance the flavor and tenderness.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked and safe to eat.
- Broiling is optional but adds a lovely golden finish to the chicken.
- Serve with a side of Greek salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
