How to Make Traditional Greek Lemon Chicken with Potatoes at Home
Greek cuisine is known for its simple yet flavorful dishes that highlight fresh ingredients. One such favorite is traditional Greek lemon chicken with potatoes. This hearty, healthy dish combines tender chicken thighs or legs with golden potatoes, all infused with the zesty tang of lemon and the earthy aroma of oregano. It’s a recipe fit for big family dinners or cozy meals at home. The best part? It’s easy to make! Follow along as we walk you through a step-by-step guide to creating this Greek classic.
Ingredients You Will Need
Before diving in, gather your ingredients. The magic of this dish comes from its simplicity. You can find most of these items in your kitchen or at your local grocery store.
Ingredients for 4 servings:
– 4 chicken thighs or drumsticks (bone-in, skin-on)
– 4-5 medium-sized potatoes (golden or Yukon work best)
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Juice of 2 lemons
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth or water
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 200°C (400°F). While the oven heats, get everything ready for the dish. A well-preheated oven ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and gets that delicious golden color.
Step 2: Prep the Chicken
Take your chicken thighs or drumsticks and pat them dry with paper towels. Dry chicken browns better! Rub each piece with a good pinch of salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. This seasoning adds flavor to the skin and helps it crisp up beautifully during roasting.
Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes
Peel the potatoes and cut them into thick wedges. Greek-style lemon potatoes are a standout component of this dish, and their shape matters. Thick wedges hold up nicely while absorbing the flavorful juices. Place the potato wedges in a large mixing bowl and season with salt, pepper, oregano, thyme (if using), and olive oil. Toss everything together so the potatoes are evenly coated.
Step 4: Make the Lemon Marinade
The lemon marinade ties the dish together! In a small bowl, mix the juice of 2 lemons, the zest of 1 lemon, minced garlic, a drizzle of olive oil, and a pinch more oregano. If you want an extra layer of flavor, add a teaspoon of mustard or honey, but this is entirely optional. Set this mixture aside—it will be poured over the chicken and potatoes before they go in the oven.
Step 5: Arrange in a Baking Dish
Choose a large baking dish or roasting pan with room for the chicken and potatoes to spread out. Arrange the seasoned potato wedges at the bottom, creating a flavorful base. Lay your seasoned chicken on top of the potatoes; this way, the juices from the chicken will soak into the potatoes as they cook.
Pour the lemon marinade evenly over the chicken and potatoes, ensuring everything gets coated. Add about 1 cup of chicken broth or water to the dish. This liquid ensures the potatoes stay moist while roasting.
Step 6: Roast It All Together
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and roast for about 45–60 minutes. During cooking, baste the chicken with the juices at the bottom of the dish every 20 minutes. Basting keeps the chicken moist and enhances the flavor. If the potatoes or chicken skin look like they’re browning too quickly, cover the dish lightly with aluminum foil.
Step 7: Check for Doneness
The chicken is ready when the skin is a deep golden brown and the juices run clear when you slice into it. To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer—its internal temperature should hit 74°C (165°F). The potatoes should be fork-tender and slightly crisp on the edges.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, let the dish rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Resting allows the flavors to settle. For a pop of color, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top. Serve the chicken and potatoes with a side of crusty bread or a simple Greek salad. Don’t forget to drizzle some of the lemony pan juices over your plate—it’s rich, tangy, and downright irresistible!
Why This Recipe Works
Greek lemon chicken with potatoes is loved for its balance of flavors. The lemon adds brightness, while olive oil keeps the dish rich. Oregano and garlic provide earthy, aromatic notes. Slow roasting ensures the chicken stays tender, and the potatoes soak up all the tangy goodness.
Tips and Variations
- Add Vegetables: Toss in carrots or onions for extra sweetness.
- Use Different Chicken Cuts: If you prefer chicken breast, adjust the cooking time to avoid drying out the meat.
- Double the Recipe for Guests: This dish scales beautifully—just use a larger baking dish.
- Reheat Leftovers: Warm leftover chicken and potatoes in the oven at 180°C (350°F) to keep everything crispy.
Greek lemon chicken with potatoes is a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. By following this recipe, you can bring the flavors of Greece into your home without much effort. It’s simple, flavorful, and sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a taste of Greece!
