There's nothing quite like the zesty aroma of Greek Lemon Chicken filling your kitchen. Tender chicken infused with tangy lemon, garlic, and aromatic herbs makes for a dish that’s equal parts refreshing and hearty. It’s the perfect blend of Mediterranean flavors, ready to transport your taste buds straight to a sunny Greek isle.
I discovered this recipe during a trip to a Greek restaurant, and I couldn’t resist recreating it at home. Now, it’s become a staple in our house—a hit for weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings alike. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so irresistible.
Why You'll Love This Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe
Get ready to fall head over heels for a recipe that's as simple as it is flavorful. This Greek Lemon Chicken delivers a culinary experience that’s easy to achieve yet tastes like a gourmet masterpiece.
First, the recipe is incredibly simple and time-efficient. With minimal prep and one pan, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on your table in under an hour. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time.
Second, it’s packed with bright, bold flavors. The combination of tangy lemon juice, earthy oregano, and savory garlic makes every bite pop. Plus, the chicken becomes irresistibly juicy and tender as it absorbs the marinade.
If you're looking for a dish that’s healthy yet satisfying, this one checks all the boxes. With lean chicken and wholesome ingredients, it’s a guilt-free meal that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding picky kids or impressing dinner guests, everyone will rave about this flavorful feast.
Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this dish shine.
Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Greek Lemon Chicken lies in its simplicity. With just a few staple ingredients, you can create a dish bursting with flavor.
Chicken thighs or breasts: Both work beautifully here, but chicken thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful. Boneless, skinless pieces are ideal for easy cooking and serving.
Lemons: Fresh lemon juice is the star of the show, providing the tangy, citrusy punch that defines this recipe. Don’t forget to zest a bit of the peel for an extra boost of flavor.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds depth and aroma. You’ll want at least three cloves—more if you’re a garlic lover like me.
Olive oil: A high-quality olive oil is essential for the marinade, giving the dish its signature Mediterranean flair.
Herbs: Dried oregano is a must for authentic Greek flavor. Fresh parsley makes a great garnish, adding a touch of brightness to the finished dish.
Chicken broth: This ingredient helps create a luscious sauce that’s perfect for spooning over rice or potatoes.
Optional equipment: A cast-iron skillet works wonderfully for searing and baking the chicken, but any oven-safe skillet or baking dish will do.
How To Make This Greek Lemon Chicken

Making Greek Lemon Chicken is delightfully straightforward, and the results are nothing short of spectacular. Let’s break it down step by step.
Start by preparing your marinade. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Add a pinch of salt and pepper for seasoning.
Place the chicken in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, though longer is even better for deeper flavor.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat a drizzle of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the marinated chicken on each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
Once the chicken is seared, pour in a bit of chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
When the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a final squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
The result? Juicy, flavorful chicken with a luscious lemony sauce that’s perfect for pairing with your favorite sides.
Storage Options
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, Greek Lemon Chicken stores beautifully.
To refrigerate, place the chicken in an airtight container and store it for up to three days. Be sure to spoon some sauce over the chicken to keep it moist.
For freezing, allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
When reheating, use the stovetop for best results. Warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent it from drying out.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is as versatile as it is delicious, making it easy to adapt to your preferences or dietary needs.
Swap the chicken for bone-in pieces if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the meat is cooked through.
For a dairy-free option, skip the butter sometimes used in other Greek chicken recipes, relying solely on olive oil for a clean, light flavor.
Add veggies like sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the skillet before baking. They’ll soak up the flavorful juices, creating a one-pan meal.
Want a heartier dish? Serve the chicken over a bed of orzo, rice pilaf, or even roasted potatoes to soak up the sauce.
Finally, experiment with spices. A pinch of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of ground cumin can add a unique twist without overpowering the classic Greek flavors.
With its irresistible combination of simplicity, flavor, and versatility, Greek Lemon Chicken is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. Give it a try and let me know how you make it your own!
PrintGreek Lemon Chicken Recipe
This Greek Lemon Chicken recipe combines tender chicken with fresh lemon juice, garlic, and oregano, creating a Mediterranean-inspired dish bursting with flavor. It's the perfect recipe for a quick, healthy dinner packed with protein and delicious citrus notes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 lemons (juiced and zested)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup chicken broth
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the chicken with the marinade and let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat, then sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Add chicken broth to the skillet and transfer it to the oven.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate for a few hours or overnight.
- Serve with a side of rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh Greek salad.
- Use chicken thighs for a juicier option.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 520mg
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