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Greek Lemon Chicken Thighs

Greek Lemon Chicken Thighs: 6 Steps to Zesty Perfection

  • Author: basmer1517
  • Total Time: 70 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Juicy chicken marinated in zesty lemon juice, aromatic herbs, and garlic, delivering a Mediterranean feast with crispy golden skin and tender, flavorful meat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 chicken thighs (skin-on, bone-in, 6–8 oz each)
  • 2 fresh lemons (juiced, about 1/4 cup)
  • 1 lemon (zested)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred, for marinade)
  • 4 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano (Greek oregano preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth or water (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine lemon juice, lemon zest, 3 tablespoons olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk vigorously for about 30 seconds until the marinade becomes slightly emulsified and fragrant.
  2. Add chicken thighs to the marinade and use tongs to turn each piece several times, ensuring the marinade gets under the skin where possible. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for best results.
  3. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Heat a 10-12 inch oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil.
  4. Remove chicken from marinade (reserve the marinade) and place thighs skin-side down in the hot skillet, leaving space between each piece. Work in batches if needed. Sear for 3-4 minutes without moving until the skin releases easily and looks deeply golden.
  5. Transfer seared chicken to a 9×13 inch baking dish, arranging pieces skin-side up. Pour reserved marinade and chicken broth around the chicken pieces. Bake for 20-25 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F and juices run clear when pierced. Skin should be crispy and golden.
  6. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Spoon some pan juices over the chicken for extra flavor.

Notes

    • Prep Time: 30 minutes
    • Cook Time: 40 minutes
    • Category: Main Course
    • Method: Baking
    • Cuisine: Mediterranean

    Nutrition

    • Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
    • Calories: 320 kcal
    • Sugar: 0 g
    • Sodium: 400 mg
    • Fat: 22 g
    • Saturated Fat: 5 g
    • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
    • Trans Fat: 0 g
    • Carbohydrates: 3 g
    • Fiber: 0 g
    • Protein: 28 g
    • Cholesterol: 120 mg

    Keywords: Greek Lemon Chicken Thighs

    Find it online: https://www.recipesmollybaz.com/greek-lemon-chicken-thighs/