Name: Baked Greek Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on recommended); 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 teaspoons oregano; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

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Let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight hero: Baked Greek Chicken! This dish is a total lifesaver when I’m in a rush but still want to serve up something delicious. In just 30 minutes, you can have juicy, flavorful chicken thighs that are bursting with those lovely Greek flavors we all adore. Seriously, what’s not to love about that?

I remember the first time I made this for my family on a particularly hectic Tuesday evening. It was one of those days when I felt like I was juggling a million things at once. I prepped this meal in a flash, and as it baked away in the oven, the entire house filled with the mouthwatering aroma of garlic and lemon. My kids wandered into the kitchen, their eyes lighting up with curiosity. When I finally pulled it out, they couldn’t wait to dig in! The smiles on their faces made it all worth it, and now it’s a regular on our dinner rotation.

This Baked Greek Chicken is not just quick and easy; it’s also versatile. You can serve it with a side of fluffy rice, a crisp Greek salad, or even some roasted veggies for a well-rounded meal. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become your go-to for busy nights too!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious Baked Greek Chicken. I’ve made sure to keep everything clear and straightforward so you won’t miss a beat!

4 pieces of chicken thighs: bone-in and skin-on is recommended for that juicy, flavorful result.
1/4 cup olive oil: this adds richness and helps the marinade cling to the chicken.
2 tablespoons lemon juice: fresh is best; it brings that bright, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
2 teaspoons oregano: dried oregano works well here, giving that classic Greek touch.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: for a lovely depth of flavor that complements the other ingredients.
1 teaspoon salt: to enhance all the flavors and make the chicken pop.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: just the right amount of kick to round out the seasoning.

How to Prepare Baked Greek Chicken (30 min)

Now, let’s dive into the fun part! Preparing Baked Greek Chicken is as straightforward as it gets. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!

Step 1: Preheating the Oven

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden color we all crave. So don’t skip this step!

Step 2: Making the Marinade

Next, grab a bowl and mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. I like to use a whisk for this part, as it really helps to blend everything together smoothly. You want the marinade to be well combined so that every piece of chicken gets coated in those fabulous Greek flavors!

Step 3: Marinating the Chicken

Now, it’s time to give your chicken a nice spa treatment! Place those chicken thighs in your baking dish and pour the marinade over them. Make sure to coat each piece well – I like to use my hands (with gloves, of course!) to rub the marinade into the skin. This helps infuse all those delicious flavors into the meat. Let them sit for a few minutes while the oven finishes preheating!

Step 4: Baking the Chicken

Once your oven is nice and hot, pop the baking dish in and let it bake for about 20 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear. You’ll know it’s ready when the skin looks crispy and golden brown – it’s such a beautiful sight! If you’re feeling fancy, you can even broil it for the last couple of minutes for extra crispiness.

Tips for Success

Now that you’ve got the basic steps down, let’s talk about a few tips to make sure your Baked Greek Chicken turns out perfectly every single time. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can help you avoid common pitfalls and elevate your dish!

Choose the Right Chicken

Using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs is key here. The bone keeps the chicken juicy, and the skin crisps up beautifully in the oven. If you use skinless chicken, you might find it drying out. So, stick with the thighs for that tender, succulent bite!

Don’t Rush the Marinade

While you can technically bake the chicken right after coating it, letting it marinate for at least 15 minutes (or longer if you have time) will really amplify those flavors. The longer it sits, the more the marinade penetrates the meat, making it even tastier!

Adjust the Seasoning to Your Taste

Feel free to tweak the marinade to match your flavor preferences. If you love a bit of heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or paprika. Want more tang? A splash of vinegar can do wonders. It’s all about making this dish your own!

Check the Chicken’s Temperature

Invest in a meat thermometer if you haven’t already. It takes the guesswork out of cooking chicken! Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked chicken every time. No one likes dry chicken, right?

Let It Rest Before Serving

Once the chicken comes out of the oven, don’t rush to serve it. Let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken juicy and delicious. Plus, it gives you a moment to whip up those sides you’ve been eyeing!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be the star of the dinner table, impressing everyone with your delightful Baked Greek Chicken. Enjoy every bite!

Nutritional Information Section

Let’s take a moment to appreciate the goodness in this Baked Greek Chicken! Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional data per serving. Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use:

Calories: 350
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Sodium: 600mg
Cholesterol: 100mg
Potassium: 300mg
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 1g
Vitamin A: 200 IU
Vitamin C: 3mg
Calcium: 20mg
Iron: 1mg

This dish is not only packed with flavor but also provides a good source of protein, making it a fantastic choice for a satisfying meal. Enjoy your delicious, nutritious dinner!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this Baked Greek Chicken is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a meal on the table fast.
Delicious Flavors: The combination of olive oil, lemon, and oregano creates a mouthwatering marinade that infuses the chicken with vibrant, Greek-inspired flavors that your family will adore.
Versatile Serving Options: This chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides – whether it’s fluffy rice, a fresh Greek salad, or roasted vegetables, you can mix and match to suit your taste!
Family-Friendly: Kid-approved and perfect for everyone at the table, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your household.
Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein and made with wholesome ingredients, this recipe is a guilt-free option that keeps your family satisfied.
Simple Cleanup: With just a baking dish and a bowl to wash, you can spend more time enjoying dinner and less time scrubbing pots and pans!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Got leftovers? No worries! This Baked Greek Chicken stores beautifully, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or those busy days when you want a quick meal ready to go.

To store your leftovers, let the chicken cool completely first. Then, place it in an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can also freeze it! Just wrap the chicken tightly in foil or freezer-safe wrap, or place it in a freezer bag. It’ll be good in the freezer for about 2-3 months.

When it’s time to reheat, the best method is to use the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the chicken in a baking dish, and cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s warmed through. You can also add a splash of water or chicken broth to the dish before reheating to keep it moist.

If you’re in a hurry, you can reheat it in the microwave. Just place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat it in 30-second intervals until warmed through. But I’ll be honest, the oven method is my favorite for preserving that crispy skin!

Whether you’re enjoying it as leftovers or serving it fresh, this chicken is sure to bring back those delightful Greek flavors any time you dig in!

FAQ Section

Got questions about Baked Greek Chicken? No problem! Here are some common queries I often hear, along with my favorite tips to help you make this dish your own.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer. Just keep in mind that breasts tend to cook faster, so check their internal temperature a few minutes earlier. They should still reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.

What if I don’t have fresh lemon juice?

No worries at all! If you’re out of fresh lemon juice, you can substitute it with bottled lemon juice. Just make sure it’s 100% pure lemon juice for the best flavor. You could also use vinegar as an alternative, but it will change the flavor profile a bit.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can! If you want to prep ahead, marinate the chicken earlier in the day or even the night before. Just cover and refrigerate the marinated chicken until you’re ready to bake. This way, the flavors get a chance to penetrate the meat even deeper!

What sides do you recommend serving with this chicken?

Great question! This Baked Greek Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. I love serving it with a fresh Greek salad, fluffy rice, or roasted vegetables. You could even toss together some roasted potatoes drizzled with olive oil and herbs for a hearty meal!

Are there any variations I can try?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with the marinade. You can add herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different twist. If you like a bit of heat, try incorporating red pepper flakes into the mix. You could also swap out the chicken for other proteins, like fish or shrimp, just adjust the cooking time accordingly!

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken, and it should read 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have one, you can also cut into the chicken; the juices should run clear, and there should be no pink meat inside.

If you have any more questions or need tips, feel free to reach out! I’m always here to help you enjoy this delicious dish to the fullest! Check out more on Pinterest.