Greek Chicken Recipe – Mediterranean Flavor Explosion

Greek Chicken

“Mediterranean perfection – herb-crusted, lemon-garlic infused, unbelievably juicy”

15 min Prep
45 min Cook
60 min Total
6 Servings

Ingredients

  • 6 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
  • 6 chicken drumsticks
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon, juiced and zested
  • 2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried rosemary
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, thyme, rosemary, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined.
  2. Season the chicken: Add chicken thighs and drumsticks to the marinade. Toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best flavor.
  3. Preheat the oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the chicken in a single layer in a large baking dish or roasting pan. Pour any remaining marinade over the top.
  4. Add liquid: Pour chicken broth around the chicken pieces (not on top). This creates steam and keeps the chicken juicy during roasting.
  5. Roast the chicken: Bake for 40-45 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy. Baste halfway through with pan juices.
  6. Rest and serve: Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges and your favorite Greek sides.

Tips for Perfect Greek Chicken

  • Marinate overnight – the longer, the better for flavor penetration
  • Use bone-in, skin-on pieces for the juiciest results
  • Let chicken come to room temperature before roasting for even cooking
  • Don’t skip the resting time – it keeps the juices in the meat
  • For extra crispy skin, broil for the last 2-3 minutes

Delicious Variations

  • Greek Chicken Souvlaki: Cut into pieces and thread onto skewers for grilling
  • Slow Cooker Version: Cook on LOW for 6-7 hours for fall-off-the-bone tenderness
  • Spicy Greek Chicken: Add red pepper flakes and harissa for heat
  • Herb-Heavy Version: Use fresh herbs instead of dried for brighter flavor
  • One-Pan Meal: Add potatoes and vegetables to the pan

Perfect Pairings

Classic Sides: Creamy tzatziki sauce, Greek salad, hummus, warm pita bread, roasted lemon potatoes.

Vegetables: Grilled zucchini, roasted bell peppers, Mediterranean eggplant.

Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days. The chicken reheats beautifully and is great in wraps or salads.

Bringing the flavors of Greece to your table