This classic Greek dish combines tender, juicy chicken thighs with crispy potatoes, all roasted together in a flavorful lemon-garlic-oregano marinade. It’s a simple yet delicious one-pan meal that’s perfect for dinner.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 4 pounds skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs
• 3 russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
• ½ cup fresh lemon juice
• ½ cup olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper
• 1 cup chicken broth, divided
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano, or to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly oil a large roasting pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine the chicken and potatoes. Add lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, dried oregano, salt, rosemary, black pepper, and cayenne. Toss until evenly coated.
3. Arrange the chicken pieces skin-side up in the prepared pan. Tuck the potato pieces around the chicken. Drizzle with ⅔ cup chicken broth. Spoon any remaining marinade over the chicken and potatoes.
4. Bake for 20 minutes. Toss the chicken and potatoes, then place the chicken skin-side up again.
5. Continue baking for about 25 more minutes, until the chicken is browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
6. Transfer the chicken to a serving platter and keep warm; leave the potatoes in the pan.
7. Turn on the broiler, or set the oven to its highest heat. Toss the potatoes to coat in pan juices. Place the pan under the broiler and broil for about 3 minutes, until the potatoes are crisped.
8. Transfer the potatoes to the platter with the chicken.
9. Place the roasting pan on the stovetop over medium heat. Add the remaining ⅓ cup chicken broth and scrape up browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
10. Strain the pan juices into a measuring cup and pour over the chicken and potatoes. Garnish with chopped fresh oregano.

Nutrients

Per serving:

• Calories: 631
• Protein: 48g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 2g
• Fat: 36g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 218mg
• Sodium: 1444mg
• Potassium: 926mg
• Vitamin A: 3% DV
• Vitamin C: 22% DV
• Calcium: 6% DV
• Iron: 16% DV

The Origins of Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes

Greek cuisine has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Many Greek dishes, including this one, are influenced by the country’s geographical location, climate, and agricultural abundance. Greece’s use of olive oil, lemon, garlic, and herbs is a testament to its Mediterranean roots.

Lemon-infused dishes are a staple in Greek households, and lemon-roasted meats have been a traditional favorite. The method of roasting chicken with a lemon-garlic-oregano marinade is a technique that has been passed down for generations. Potatoes, another common ingredient in Greek cuisine, complement the dish perfectly by absorbing the flavorful juices as they cook.

Why This Dish is So Popular

There are several reasons why Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes has become a beloved meal across different cultures:

• Simple Ingredients, Bold Flavors – The dish relies on fresh, simple ingredients such as lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and oregano, yet it delivers a complex, mouthwatering taste.
• One-Pan Convenience – Everything is cooked together in one pan, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully and making cleanup easy.
• Healthy and Nutritious – With lean protein from the chicken, healthy fats from olive oil, and fiber-rich potatoes, this dish is both delicious and good for you.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether you’re preparing a casual family meal or hosting a dinner party, this dish is a crowd-pleaser.

The Key Ingredients That Make It Special

While the full recipe isn’t included here, it’s worth highlighting the key ingredients that bring this dish to life.

• Lemon Juice – The star of the dish, lemon juice provides a bright, tangy flavor that enhances the chicken and potatoes.
• Olive Oil – A staple in Greek cooking, olive oil adds richness and helps crisp up the potatoes.
• Garlic – This aromatic ingredient infuses the dish with depth and warmth.
• Oregano – A signature herb in Greek cuisine, oregano adds an earthy, slightly bitter note.
• Chicken Thighs – Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are commonly used because they stay juicy and tender while roasting.
• Potatoes – The potatoes soak up all the delicious juices and become golden and crispy in the oven.

How Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes Fits Into the Mediterranean Diet

The Mediterranean diet is widely regarded as one of the healthiest ways to eat. It emphasizes whole foods, healthy fats, lean proteins, and fresh vegetables. This dish fits seamlessly into the Mediterranean diet due to its nutritious components:

• Lean protein from the chicken helps maintain muscle mass and keeps you feeling full.
• Healthy fats from olive oil provide essential nutrients and support heart health.
• Complex carbohydrates from the potatoes give you sustained energy.
• Antioxidants from the lemon, garlic, and oregano contribute to overall well-being.

By enjoying Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes, you’re not just indulging in a delicious meal—you’re also nourishing your body with wholesome, natural ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes is a well-rounded dish on its own, but you can pair it with other Greek sides to complete the meal. Here are some excellent accompaniments:

• Greek Salad – A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, olives, and feta cheese, dressed in olive oil and red wine vinegar.
• Tzatziki Sauce – This creamy yogurt-based dip with garlic and cucumber adds a cool contrast to the warm, citrusy chicken.
• Pita Bread – Soft, warm pita is perfect for scooping up the flavorful juices.
• Roasted Vegetables – Additional roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant make a nutritious and colorful side.

Tips for Making the Best Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes

To ensure your dish turns out perfect every time, follow these expert tips:

• Use fresh lemons – Bottled lemon juice lacks the fresh, bright taste of freshly squeezed lemons.
• Marinate the chicken – If time allows, marinate the chicken for a few hours before cooking to maximize flavor.
• Roast at high heat – Cooking at a high temperature ensures crispy skin and well-browned potatoes.
• Baste with pan juices – Spoon the flavorful juices over the chicken and potatoes during cooking for extra moisture and taste.
• Finish under the broiler – For crispy potatoes, place them under the broiler for the last few minutes of cooking.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

If you haven’t yet made Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes, here’s why you should add it to your cooking repertoire:

• It’s easy to make with minimal prep time.
• It’s budget-friendly since it uses basic pantry ingredients.
• It’s packed with flavor from the combination of lemon, garlic, and herbs.
• It’s versatile—you can customize the seasoning or add vegetables to suit your taste.

Conclusion

Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes is more than just a meal; it’s an experience of traditional Greek flavors in a simple, wholesome dish. Its combination of zesty lemon, fragrant herbs, and juicy chicken makes it an all-time favorite for families and food lovers alike.