Description
This Baked Greek Lemon Chicken recipe offers a flavorful and juicy dish featuring tender boneless, skinless chicken thighs marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, garlic, and classic Mediterranean herbs. Perfectly baked with a crispy, lightly browned finish, this recipe is an easy and delicious way to bring Greek-inspired flavors to your dinner table.
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 salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl or ziplock bag. In a separate bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, dried thyme, dried dill, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Pour this marinade over the chicken ensuring all pieces are well coated. Cover the bowl tightly or seal the bag and refrigerate for 2 to 6 hours to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and arrange the marinated thighs in a single layer in a baking dish. Pour the remaining marinade evenly over the chicken to maximize flavor and moisture during baking.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches between 165°F and 175°F, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and juicy. For an appealing golden-brown color, switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for at least 2 hours helps tenderize the meat and intensifies the lemon and herb flavors.
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs remain juicy and tender when baked, but bone-in thighs can also be used with a longer baking time.
- Using a meat thermometer is recommended to ensure the chicken is safely cooked without dryness.
- The broil step is optional but adds a nice crisp finish to the chicken’s surface.
- This dish pairs well with a Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or couscous.
