Name: Baked Greek Lemon Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Greek/Mediterranean
Ingredients: 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 2 lemons, 1 sliced and 1 juiced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large red onion, cut into thick wedges; 1½ teaspoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley

Golden, herb-kissed, and bursting with the citrusy brightness of lemon, this Baked Greek Lemon Chicken is a weeknight dinner dream. It’s the kind of dish that feels special enough for guests but easy enough to throw together on a whim. With juicy chicken thighs infused with garlic, oregano, and fresh lemon, every bite delivers a cozy Mediterranean hug.

Roasting the chicken over a bed of tender onions and lemon slices not only intensifies the flavor but also creates a savory pan sauce that begs to be sopped up with crusty bread or spooned over rice. Whether you’re serving it for a simple Sunday dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish brings a bold yet comforting flavor punch.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are perfect for this recipe because they stay moist and juicy while baking and develop that crave-worthy golden crust. You can also use drumsticks or even bone-in breasts, but be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed. Boneless cuts will cook faster but may not offer the same depth of flavor.

Ingredients for the Baked Greek Lemon Chicken

Chicken Thighs
Choose bone-in, skin-on thighs for maximum flavor and juicy texture. They crisp up beautifully in the oven.

Lemon
Lemon juice and slices infuse the chicken with fresh, zesty brightness and balance the savory herbs.

Garlic
Fresh minced garlic adds sharpness and depth, enhancing the Mediterranean profile.

Olive Oil
Used to coat the chicken and aid in browning, extra virgin olive oil adds richness and body.

Red Onion
Thick slices roast beneath the chicken, soaking up juices and turning sweet and tender.

Oregano
Dried oregano brings classic Greek flavor and a warm, earthy aroma.

Salt and Pepper
Essential for seasoning and drawing out the full flavors of the chicken and aromatics.

Fresh Parsley
Sprinkled on after baking, parsley offers a fresh finish and pop of color.

How To Make the Baked Greek Lemon Chicken

Step 1: Preheat and Prep the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the red onion into thick wedges and lay them in the bottom of a baking dish. Cut one lemon into rounds and scatter them on top of the onions.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Rub this mixture generously over the chicken thighs.

Step 3: Arrange in the Dish

Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up over the lemon and onion bed. Squeeze the juice from another lemon over the top for added zing.

Step 4: Roast Until Golden

Bake uncovered for about 40–45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and browned.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, spoon some of the pan juices over the chicken and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

How to Serve and Store Baked Greek Lemon Chicken

Serve this dish hot, straight from the oven, with the caramelized lemon and onion slices on the side. It pairs beautifully with rice, roasted potatoes, or a crisp Greek salad. For a heartier plate, add warm pita and a dollop of tzatziki.

To store leftovers, let the chicken cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or gently microwave for a quicker option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless chicken instead?

Yes, but keep in mind boneless cuts cook faster and may dry out more easily. Reduce the baking time and keep an eye on them.

Do I need to marinate the chicken?

It’s not required, but if you have the time, marinating for 1–2 hours will deepen the lemon and herb flavor.

Can I freeze this dish?

Absolutely. Let the chicken cool completely, then freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What vegetables pair well with this?

Roasted potatoes, zucchini, bell peppers, or a Mediterranean couscous salad make great companions.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F. The skin should also look golden and crisp.

Can I add other herbs?

Definitely! Try rosemary or thyme for added layers of flavor alongside the oregano.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you’re a fan of this Mediterranean-inspired Baked Greek Lemon Chicken, here are a few more dinner recipes to keep your weeknight meals exciting:

Try the Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet for creamy, comforting flavor.
The Sweet Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot is perfect for set-it-and-forget-it cooking.
Go bold with Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo for a spicy twist.
The Pan-Fried Salmon with Garlic Butter Sauce is a great lighter option packed with flavor.
Or explore Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce for a high-protein bowl meal.

For even more recipes like this, check out my daily food finds and meal ideas on Pinterest – Life with Jam.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know how your Baked Greek Lemon Chicken turned out! Did you stick to thighs or try another cut? Add some veggies to the pan? I’d love to hear your twist.

Questions or comments? Drop them below and let’s make this recipe even better together.

Baked Greek Lemon Chicken

Author: Jam Scott
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

A juicy, herb-roasted chicken dish infused with lemon, garlic, and oregano—this easy Baked Greek Lemon Chicken is perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep. Roasted over a bed of sweet onions and lemon slices, it creates a flavorful pan sauce you’ll want to pour over everything.