Transport your kitchen to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean with this effortless Greek lemon chicken and potatoes recipe. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a comforting, flavor-packed meal that feels like a seaside escape.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting friends on the weekend, this dish delivers golden, crispy potatoes and tender, zesty chicken in one baking dish. Let’s dive into seven simple steps to unlock that Mediterranean magic!
1. Gather Your Mediterranean Essentials
Before you begin, assemble all your ingredients to streamline the cooking process. You’ll need:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or breasts)
– 1½ pounds baby potatoes, halved
– 2 lemons (juice and zest)
– ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Having everything at arm’s reach ensures a smooth, stress-free prep.
2. Prep and Marinate the Chicken
Once your ingredients are prepped, it’s time to infuse the chicken with bright flavors.
Marinade
– Combine lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
– Whisk until emulsified.
– Place the chicken pieces in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them.
– Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) to deepen the flavor.
3. Parboil the Potatoes
Parboiling ensures your potatoes roast evenly without drying out:
1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the halved potatoes and cook for 5–7 minutes, until slightly tender.
3. Drain and let them steam-dry in the colander for a minute.
This quick step jump-starts the cooking process for perfectly fluffy interiors and crisp edges.
4. Season and Arrange Everything
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Meanwhile:
– Toss the parboiled potatoes with a little olive oil, salt, pepper, and a pinch of oregano.
– Arrange the potatoes in a single layer in a large baking dish or roasting pan.
– Nestle the marinated chicken pieces among the potatoes, skin side up for optimal crisping.
Add a few extra lemon slices on top for a burst of citrus aroma as it bakes.
5. Roast to Golden Perfection
Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven. Roasting time is about 45–55 minutes:
– After 25 minutes, baste the chicken and potatoes with pan juices.
– Continue roasting until chicken reaches 165°F internally and the skin is golden brown.
– The potatoes should be tender inside and crisp on the outside.
6. Add Fresh Lemon and Herbs
Once out of the oven, let the dish rest for 5 minutes. Then:
– Squeeze a bit more fresh lemon juice over the chicken and potatoes.
– Scatter chopped fresh parsley (or dill) for a vibrant, herbaceous finish.
This final touch brightens the flavors and makes the presentation pop.
7. Serve and Savor Mediterranean Goodness
Transfer the chicken and potatoes to a serving platter. For an authentic Greek spread, pair with:
– A crisp Greek salad (tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, feta)
– Tzatziki or plain yogurt for dipping
– Warm pita bread or crusty baguette
Dig in and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean at your own table!
With just seven straightforward steps, you’ve created a crowd-pleasing Greek lemon chicken and potatoes dish that’s equal parts simple and spectacular. The bright citrus, fragrant herbs, and golden roast come together to deliver unforgettable flavor. Buon appetito!