Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes is a flavorful and comforting dish that embodies the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean. The zesty lemon, earthy garlic, and aromatic herbs come together beautifully with tender chicken and golden potatoes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this recipe is both simple and satisfying.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken and Potatoes:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 ½ pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into chunks
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice
- ½ cup olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, mix the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade. Toss to coat thoroughly and let sit for 15 minutes while you prepare the potatoes.
- Season the Potatoes: Place the potato chunks in a large baking dish. Drizzle some of the marinade over the potatoes and toss to coat evenly.
- Arrange the Chicken and Potatoes: Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and place them on top of the potatoes in the baking dish. Pour any remaining marinade over the dish.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes or until the chicken is golden and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the potatoes are tender. Stir the potatoes halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Broil for Crispness (Optional): For a crispy finish, turn on the broiler for the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Tips for Perfect Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes:
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and herbs make all the difference in enhancing the flavors.
Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes hold their shape well and absorb the marinade beautifully.
Marinate Longer: For an even more flavorful dish, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
Add Vegetables: For a complete meal, toss in some carrots or green beans alongside the potatoes.
Crispy Skin: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels before marinating to achieve crispier skin.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Calories Per Serving:
Approximately 450 calories per serving, depending on portion size and ingredients used.
Conclusion
Lemon Chicken and Potatoes is a dish that promises to transport you to the sunny Mediterranean with every bite. Its vibrant flavors, tender chicken, and crispy potatoes are sure to become a family favorite. Simple to prepare yet bursting with flavor, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Pair it with a crisp Greek salad or warm pita bread for a complete and satisfying meal.