Greek Lemon Oregano Chicken

Greek Lemon Oregano Chicken is a classic Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s vibrant, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to prepare. Tender chicken is marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and aromatic oregano, then roasted to perfection. The result is juicy, golden chicken with bright, zesty flavors and a subtle herbaceous aroma.

This dish embodies the essence of Greek cooking: fresh, wholesome ingredients, bold flavors, and simplicity. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, it pairs beautifully with rice, roasted vegetables, or a Greek salad. The marinade not only infuses flavor but also keeps the chicken juicy and tender, making every bite a delight.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s fresh, light, and full of flavor. The lemon gives a bright tang that complements the savory garlic and oregano, while the olive oil ensures the chicken stays tender and juicy. It’s a recipe that feels healthy and indulgent at the same time.

Roasting the chicken with a drizzle of marinade creates a beautifully caramelized exterior, making it visually appealing and delicious.

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

• Mediterranean flavors: Bright lemon, fragrant oregano, and garlic.
• Juicy, tender chicken: Marinated to perfection.
• Easy to prepare: Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor.
• Versatile: Great for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining.
• Healthy: Lean protein with heart-healthy olive oil and herbs.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Marinating Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours (optional but recommended)
• Cooking Time: 35–40 minutes
• Total Time: 50–55 minutes (excluding marinating)
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: ~350 kcal per serving

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: Greek / Mediterranean
• Course: Main Course / Dinner

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• Juice of 2 lemons
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 ½ tsp dried oregano (or 1 tbsp fresh)
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika (optional, for color)
• Fresh oregano or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Marinate chicken in the mixture for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. Place chicken on a baking tray and roast 35–40 minutes until golden and cooked through.
5. Garnish with fresh oregano or parsley and serve hot.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1 – Prepare the Marinade

• In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and paprika.

Step 2 – Marinate the Chicken

• Place chicken thighs (or breasts) in a shallow dish or zip-top bag.
• Pour marinade over chicken, making sure each piece is coated.
• Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 1–2 hours.

Step 3 – Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil.

Step 4 – Roast the Chicken

• Arrange chicken on the tray, skin side up.
• Roast for 35–40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and skin is golden brown.

Step 5 – Rest & Garnish

• Remove chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
• Sprinkle with chopped fresh oregano or parsley for garnish.

How to Serve

• Serve with roasted potatoes, rice, or quinoa.
• Pair with a Greek salad or steamed vegetables for a complete Mediterranean meal.
• Drizzle with extra lemon juice or marinade pan juices for added flavor.

Recipe Tips

• Marinate longer for deeper flavor and extra tenderness.
• Pat chicken dry before roasting for crispier skin.
• Use fresh herbs when possible for more vibrant aroma and taste.
• Adjust seasoning to taste; add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
• Basting with pan juices halfway through roasting enhances flavor and moisture.

Variations

• Lemon Herb Chicken: Add fresh thyme and rosemary to the marinade.
• Grilled Version: Cook marinated chicken on a grill over medium heat for 20–25 minutes, turning occasionally.
• Greek Yogurt Marinade: Replace some olive oil with Greek yogurt for extra tender and creamy chicken.
• Spicy Twist: Add ½ tsp chili flakes or a dash of cayenne for a mild heat.
• One-Pan Meal: Roast chicken with sliced potatoes, bell peppers, and onions for a full meal.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigeration: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes to maintain crispiness.

Special Equipment Needed

• Baking tray or roasting pan
• Parchment paper or aluminum foil
• Mixing bowl for marinade
• Meat thermometer (optional but recommended)

FAQ

Q: Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but reduce cooking time to 25–30 minutes to prevent drying out.

Q: Can I prepare this chicken ahead of time?
Yes, marinate and refrigerate up to 24 hours before cooking.

Q: Can I make this on a grill?
Yes, grill over medium heat for 20–25 minutes, turning occasionally.

Q: Can I add vegetables to roast with the chicken?
Yes, potatoes, zucchini, bell peppers, and onions roast well alongside chicken.

Q: Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, this dish is naturally low-carb and keto-friendly.

Conclusion

Greek Lemon Oregano Chicken is a bright, flavorful, and simple Mediterranean dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and fragrant oregano. Perfect for weeknight dinners, entertaining, or meal prep, this recipe is easy, healthy, and irresistibly delicious. The vibrant flavors and crispy, golden exterior make it a dish you’ll want to serve again and again.