If you’re craving a dish that bursts with sunshine and warmth, the Lemon Greek Chicken and Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. This hearty, comforting meal combines tender, juicy chicken thighs perfectly roasted alongside golden, crispy potatoes, all infused with bright lemon, fragrant herbs, and a touch of garlic. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a hug from the Mediterranean, easy to prepare yet impressively flavorful, making it an instant favorite for both weeknights and special gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind the Lemon Greek Chicken and Potatoes Recipe lies in its simple, fresh ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the harmonious balance of flavors, textures, and colors that will leave you wanting more.
- Bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks: These provide juicy, flavorful meat that stays tender during roasting.
- Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes: Their sturdy texture soaks up all the lemony goodness while roasting to crispy perfection.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps achieve that irresistible golden crust on both chicken and potatoes.
- Fresh lemon juice: Delivers bright, zesty acidity that defines the dish’s signature tangy flavor.
- Lemon zest: Packs concentrated citrus aroma, elevating every bite with an extra layer of brightness.
- Chicken broth: Keeps the chicken moist and infuses the potatoes with savory depth.
- Minced garlic: Lends a warm, aromatic foundation that complements the herbs beautifully.
- Dried oregano: A classic Greek herb that adds earthiness and a subtle peppery note.
- Dried thyme: Adds complexity with gentle, minty hints that brighten the overall profile.
- Paprika: Provides a smoky undertone and a lovely color boost.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together harmoniously.
- Chopped fresh parsley: Added at the end for a fresh, vibrant finish and a pop of color.
How to Make Lemon Greek Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Potatoes
Start by heating your oven to 400°F, ensuring it’s hot and ready to create a gorgeous roast. Place your potato wedges in a large baking dish, then drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the potatoes evenly. The olive oil is key here; it helps the potatoes crisp up while keeping their insides soft and fluffy.
Step 2: Add the Chicken
Next, nestle your bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks right among the potatoes in the baking dish. This layering lets the chicken juices mingle with the potatoes during roasting, building a rich, unified flavor throughout the dish.
Step 3: Create the Lemony Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, chicken broth, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth. This bright, herby mixture is what makes the Lemon Greek Chicken and Potatoes Recipe truly unforgettable. The lemon provides that signature tang, while the herbs bring earthy warmth.
Step 4: Pour and Toss
Pour your aromatic lemon and herb marinade evenly over the chicken and potatoes. Then, gently toss the potatoes to coat them thoroughly in the flavorful liquid. This step ensures every bite is infused with that irresistible lemony herb goodness.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the dish for 50 to 60 minutes, occasionally basting the chicken with the pan juices to lock in moisture. The chicken should turn golden brown, and the potatoes should be tender and bursting with flavor. If you like, finish the dish under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes to get an extra crispy, caramelized topping that’s absolutely mouthwatering.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, sprinkle the entire dish generously with chopped fresh parsley. This final touch adds a fresh burst of color and herbaceous brightness that really ties the dish together beautifully.
How to Serve Lemon Greek Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling fresh parsley over the finished dish complements its vibrant flavors perfectly. You might also drizzle a little extra lemon juice or scatter some thin lemon slices on the side for an eye-catching, zesty flourish that invites everyone to squeeze on more brightness as they please.
Side Dishes
The Lemon Greek Chicken and Potatoes Recipe works well with a simple green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness, or a side of steamed green beans or roasted asparagus for added freshness. Crusty bread is also fantastic for soaking up all those delicious pan juices.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive presentation, serve this dish family-style straight from the baking dish at the center of the table. Alternatively, plate individual servings with a wedge of lemon and a sprinkle of extra parsley for a polished look that’s perfect for dinner parties or special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Lemon Greek Chicken and Potatoes Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, so you can enjoy that delightful flavor again without any hassle.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken and potatoes if needed. Place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to press out excess air. They will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 15 to 20 minutes to revive the crispy edges, or microwave on medium power if you’re short on time. Reheating slowly ensures the chicken remains juicy and the potatoes don’t dry out.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken instead of bone-in?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken breasts or thighs can be used, but keep in mind boneless pieces cook faster and may dry out if not monitored closely. Adjust cooking time accordingly and check for doneness to keep the meat juicy.
What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape well and develop a crispy exterior while roasting. Waxy potatoes may become too soft or mushy in this dish.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, the Lemon Greek Chicken and Potatoes Recipe uses only natural, gluten-free ingredients, making it a perfect choice for anyone with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
You can prep the marinade and slice your potatoes ahead of time, then store everything separately in the fridge. Assemble right before baking for the best texture and flavor.
What if I don’t have fresh lemons?
While fresh lemon juice and zest give the brightest flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. Just reduce the quantity slightly since bottled juice tends to be more acidic and less vibrant.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Greek Chicken and Potatoes Recipe is a true culinary treasure that brings Greek-inspired sunshine to your dining table with minimal effort. It’s the perfect blend of comfort and brightness, ideal for sharing with family and friends. Once you try it, I’m sure it will become one of your go-to recipes that you keep reaching for whenever you want a satisfying, flavorful meal that feels like a celebration.
Print
Lemon Greek Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A flavorful and hearty Greek-inspired dish featuring tender bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks roasted alongside crispy lemon-infused potato wedges. This one-pan meal is seasoned with garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, and fresh lemon juice, creating a perfect balance of savory and tangy flavors. Ideal for a comforting family dinner, garnished with fresh parsley for a vibrant finish.
Ingredients
Chicken and Potatoes
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 4 large russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into wedges
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Marinade and Seasoning
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1–2 lemons)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Additional salt and black pepper, to taste
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the chicken and potatoes.
- Prepare Potatoes: Place the potato wedges in a large baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil, and season generously with salt and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Add Chicken: Nestle the bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks among the potato wedges in the baking dish.
- Mix Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, chicken broth, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Pour and Toss: Evenly pour the lemon-garlic marinade mixture over the chicken and potatoes. Toss the potatoes lightly to coat them well with the marinade.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. Baste the chicken once or twice throughout cooking with the pan juices to keep it moist and flavorful. The chicken should be golden brown and the potatoes tender when done.
- Broil for Extra Browning: For an extra crispy and browned finish, broil the dish for 2 to 3 minutes at the end of cooking. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness before serving.
Notes
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the brightest and most vibrant flavor in the dish.
- Add a splash of white wine to the marinade for deeper flavor complexity if desired.
- For crispier potatoes, use a larger baking pan to ensure they roast rather than steam.
- Bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks help keep the meat juicy during baking.
- Feel free to substitute fresh herbs instead of dried if available, adjusting quantity accordingly.
