Easy Greek Lemon Chicken Thighs

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Imagine the aroma of lemon and garlic wafting through your kitchen, transporting you to a sun-soaked Grecian terrace. That’s the magic of Easy Greek Lemon Chicken Thighs. This dish is not only delicious but also a breeze to make, perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. With juicy, tender chicken thighs coated in a vibrant marinade, this recipe brings classic flavors to your dining table without all the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

There are countless reasons to make Easy Greek Lemon Chicken Thighs part of your weekly meal plan. First, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it a go-to option for those hectic evenings. Imagine coming home, marinating the chicken, and letting your oven do the rest while you enjoy some downtime. Plus, it’s budget-friendly; chicken thighs are often more affordable than other cuts, yet they remain supremely moist and flavorful when cooked properly.

This dish serves as a fantastic family favorite, pleasing even the pickiest eaters. The bright flavors of lemon and herbs are refreshing, and the simple ingredients are likely ones you already have in your pantry.

“This has quickly become my family’s favorite weeknight meal! The lemon is so refreshing, it makes dinner feel special even on a busy night.” – A happy home-cook.

Step-by-Step Overview

Making Easy Greek Lemon Chicken Thighs follows a simple sequence. You’ll start by prepping the marinade, then let the chicken thighs soak in those flavors while you preheat your oven. After a quick sear to get that crispy skin, the thighs are transferred to the oven for baking until they reach juicy perfection. In no time, you’ll be serving a restaurant-quality meal right from your home kitchen.

What You’ll Need

• 6 chicken thighs (skin-on, bone-in, 6-8 oz each)
• 2 fresh lemons (juiced, about 1/4 cup)
• 1 lemon (zested)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred, for marinade)
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano (Greek oregano preferred)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or water (low-sodium preferred)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)

If you’re looking for substitutions, boneless chicken thighs can work, but remember that skin-on thighs will yield juicier results!

Directions to Follow

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the lemon juice, lemon zest, 3 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk vigorously for about 30 seconds until the marinade is slightly emulsified and aromatic.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight for max flavor.
3. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Heat a 10-12 inch oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place the thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes until the skin is deeply golden.
5. Transfer the chicken, skin-side up, to a baking dish. Pour the reserved marinade and chicken broth around the chicken.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving, drizzling pan juices over the chicken.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

For a lovely presentation, serve Easy Greek Lemon Chicken Thighs on a bed of fluffy rice or alongside a vibrant Greek salad tossed in olive oil and red wine vinegar. Add a sprinkle of feta cheese on the salad for an extra touch of flavor. Pair it with a chilled glass of white wine or refreshing iced tea to complete your meal.

How to Store

If you have leftovers (which is rare, given how delicious this dish is!), allow the chicken to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. To reheat, place the chicken in an oven-safe dish and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, preserving that juicy texture.

Helpful Cooking Tips

• Marinate longer for intensified flavor: If you can, let the chicken marinate overnight. It helps tenderize the meat and infuses it with zesty flavor.
• Use a meat thermometer: To ensure perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F.
• Don’t skip the searing: Searing the chicken skin-side down before baking locks in those delicious juices and gives you a crispy skin.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to get creative! Try adding a dollop of Dijon mustard to the marinade for an extra kick, or add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile. For a spicier twist, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes. You could also substitute chicken thighs for drumsticks or even bone-in chicken breasts if that’s what you have on hand.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the prep time for this dish?
The prep time is about 10 minutes, but remember to account for marinating time if you want maximum flavor!

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?
Yes, boneless thighs will work, but ensure they’re not overcooked to keep them juicy.

How do I know when my chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

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Enjoy bringing a taste of Greece to your kitchen with this delightful and uncomplicated chicken recipe!

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