Greek Lemon Chicken

Introduction

Greek Lemon Chicken is a delicious and healthy recipe that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. This recipe is full of flavor and is a great way to add some Mediterranean flair to your meal. The tangy lemon marinade makes the chicken juicy and tender, while the herbs and spices add a delicious depth of flavor.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you will need to make Greek Lemon Chicken for 4 portions:

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1/3 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper.

2. Add chicken breasts to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade.

3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours.

4. When ready to cook, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

5. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

6. Bake for 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.

7. Serve with lemon wedges and fresh herbs, if desired.

Vegetarian/Vegan Alternatives

This recipe is specifically for Greek Lemon Chicken, but you can easily make a vegetarian or vegan version by using tofu or tempeh instead of the chicken. Simply marinate the tofu or tempeh in the same marinade as the chicken and bake in the oven until crispy and golden brown.

Gluten-Free Alternatives

This recipe is already gluten-free, but if you want to make it even more gluten-free friendly, you can serve it over a bed of quinoa or rice instead of with bread or pasta.

Conclusion

Greek Lemon Chicken is a delicious and healthy recipe that is quick and easy to make. The tangy lemon marinade makes the chicken juicy and tender, while the herbs and spices add a delicious Mediterranean twist. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner and is sure to become a family favorite.

FAQ

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs. However, chicken thighs are recommended because they have more flavor and are less likely to dry out during cooking.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

You should marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but it’s best to marinate it for several hours or overnight to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.

Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?

Yes, you can grill the chicken instead of baking it. Just make sure to cook it over medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

What can I serve with Greek Lemon Chicken?

Greek Lemon Chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted potatoes, rice pilaf, or a Greek salad.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried herbs instead of fresh. However, you will need to use less of them since dried herbs are more concentrated than fresh.

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of bone-in, skin-on?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of bone-in, skin-on. However, the bone-in, skin-on chicken will have more flavor and stay moister during cooking.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Just store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze Greek Lemon Chicken?

Yes, you can freeze Greek Lemon Chicken. Just store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Can I use a different type of citrus instead of lemon?

Yes, you can use a different type of citrus instead of lemon. Try using lime or orange juice for a different flavor twist.

How can I tell when the chicken is cooked through?

You can tell when the chicken is cooked through by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for chicken to be safe to eat.