Baked Greek Lemon Chicken

Baked Greek Lemon Chicken is a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen. Tender chicken is marinated in a zesty lemon and herb mixture, then baked until perfectly golden and juicy. The aroma of garlic, oregano, and citrus fills the air as it roasts, making this dish as comforting as it is flavorful.
Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe fits the bill. It’s easy to prepare, yet impressive enough to serve to guests. Pair it with a crisp salad or roasted vegetables for a wholesome, satisfying meal that’s full of bright, sunny flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Greek Lemon Chicken
You’ll love this dish for its simplicity and bold flavor. The lemon marinade not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with a tangy freshness that’s irresistible. It’s a one-pan wonder, easy to clean up and perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a healthier choice thanks to lean protein and olive oil.
What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?
For best results, use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks. The skin gets beautifully crispy while the meat stays juicy and flavorful. You can also use boneless, skinless breasts or thighs if you prefer a lighter option, just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent drying out.
Ingredients for the Baked Greek Lemon Chicken
The heart of this recipe lies in its fresh, aromatic ingredients. The chicken is the star, bringing hearty protein to the dish. Fresh lemon juice adds a bright, citrusy tang that defines the Mediterranean character. Garlic lends its pungent, savory depth while dried oregano offers an earthy, herbaceous note. Olive oil ties everything together, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful as it bakes. A touch of salt and pepper enhances all the natural flavors.

How To Make the Baked Greek Lemon Chicken
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl or zip-top bag, combine lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat thoroughly. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Arrange and Bake
Place the marinated chicken pieces in the prepared baking dish, skin-side up. Pour any remaining marinade over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is golden brown.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and succulent.
Serving and Storing Baked Greek Lemon Chicken
This recipe serves about 4 people generously, making it ideal for a family dinner or small gathering. To serve, garnish the chicken with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for a pop of color and extra zest. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chicken reheats well in the oven or microwave, staying juicy and flavorful.
What to Serve With Baked Greek Lemon Chicken?
Greek Salad
A crisp Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, olives, and feta cheese complements the citrusy chicken beautifully.
Roasted Potatoes
Golden roasted potatoes seasoned with olive oil and herbs make a hearty and classic pairing.
Tzatziki Sauce
Cool, creamy tzatziki offers a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory chicken.
Rice Pilaf
A fragrant rice pilaf with herbs and a hint of lemon balances the meal.
Steamed Asparagus
Light and bright, steamed asparagus brings a touch of green and a mild earthy flavor.
Warm Pita Bread
Soft, warm pita is perfect for sopping up the delicious pan juices.
Grilled Vegetables
A medley of grilled zucchini, eggplant, and peppers adds smoky depth to your plate.
Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?
If you loved this Baked Greek Lemon Chicken, you’ll want to try these other flavorful meals:
• Low Carb Chicken Casserole for a creamy, comforting bake.
• Smothered Chicken and Rice with a savory, rich sauce.
• Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Chicken that’s perfect for impressing guests.
• Lemon Chicken Veggie Orzo Stir Fry for a quick and healthy twist.
• Classic Chicken Marsala with a luscious wine sauce.
Save This Recipe For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it anytime.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra herbs or try it with boneless cuts? Did you pair it with rice or salad?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too – let’s help each other cook smarter.
Explore beautifully curated Mediterranean-inspired recipes on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your next favorite dinner!
Print
Baked Greek Lemon Chicken
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This Baked Greek Lemon Chicken recipe is a vibrant Mediterranean dinner idea, featuring juicy chicken marinated in lemon, garlic, and herbs. A healthy and easy weeknight chicken dish with bold flavors.
Ingredients
4 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
3 cloves garlic minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. In a large bowl or zip-top bag, combine lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat thoroughly. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for maximum flavor. When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Place the marinated chicken pieces in the prepared baking dish, skin-side up. Pour any remaining marinade over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is golden brown. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
This recipe serves about 4 people generously. For the juiciest results, don’t skip resting the chicken before serving. If using boneless cuts, reduce baking time by about 10 minutes and check for doneness early.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken piece
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg