Description
This Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes recipe features juicy baked chicken thighs marinated in a vibrant lemon-garlic sauce with oregano and thyme, roasted atop tender Yukon Gold potatoes. The marinade infuses both the chicken and potatoes with bright, savory flavors, making for a comforting Mediterranean-inspired meal perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Marinade Ingredients
- 8 cloves garlic
- 3/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon Greek dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons fine sea salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Main Ingredients
- 8 large chicken thighs (overlapping skin trimmed)
- 5 medium Yukon Gold potatoes (peeled, cut into large chunks, soaked in water then dried)
- 1 sprig fresh oregano (optional, for garnish)
- 5 slices lemon (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: Blend the garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, dried oregano, dried thyme, sea salt, and black pepper in a blender or food processor until smooth. This creates a flavorful, tangy marinade that will tenderize the chicken and infuse the potatoes.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs and the entire marinade in a sealable plastic bag. Refrigerate for 2 hours to allow the chicken to soak up the bright Mediterranean flavors.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and position the rack in the middle to ensure even cooking.
- Prepare the Potatoes: Add the peeled and cut Yukon Gold potatoes to a baking dish. Pour half of the used marinade over the potatoes and use your hands or a spoon to evenly coat all pieces. Spread the potatoes out in an even layer to allow for uniform roasting.
- Arrange Chicken over Potatoes: Place the marinated chicken thighs skin side up directly on top of the potatoes. Drizzle the remaining marinade over the chicken pieces to keep them moist and flavorful during baking.
- Bake the Chicken and Potatoes: Bake at 425°F for 10 minutes to start browning the chicken skin. Then reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for 45-55 minutes more until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 185°F (85°C) and the potatoes are tender. If the potatoes remain firm after the chicken is cooked, remove the chicken to a plate, tent with foil, increase the oven back to 425°F, and roast the potatoes until browned and soft.
- Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest lightly tented with foil for 10-15 minutes so the juices redistribute. Serve the chicken and potatoes garnished with fresh oregano sprigs and lemon slices for an extra burst of fresh flavor. Enjoy your delicious Greek-inspired meal!
Notes
- Soaking the potatoes in water before cooking helps remove excess starch and ensures they become crispy on the outside and tender inside.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken thighs reach at least 185°F for safe and juicy results.
- Allowing the chicken to rest after baking enhances moisture retention and flavor.
- Fresh oregano and lemon slices are optional but recommended for authentic flavor and attractive presentation.
- This recipe can be prepared ahead by marinating chicken overnight for even deeper flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
