Greek Lemon-Garlic Chicken with Potatoes Recipe

If you crave a dish that feels like a warm hug from the Mediterranean, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Greek Lemon-Garlic Chicken with Potatoes Recipe. It’s the perfect harmony of juicy, crispy chicken infused with bright lemon and fragrant garlic, paired with golden wedges of tender potatoes that soak up every drop of that zesty marinade. This recipe is straightforward to make but incredibly satisfying, delivering a flavorful experience that transports your taste buds straight to Greece.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the key to making this dish shine. Each one brings something special—whether it’s the citrus tang, the aromatic herbs, or the hearty potatoes—that all come together in one irresistibly delicious pan.

• 3 pounds chicken pieces, bone in and skin on: The bones add flavor, and the skin crisps up beautifully in the oven.
• Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and drawing out the natural flavors of the chicken and potatoes.
• 4 gold potatoes, thinly wedged: They absorb the marinade and turn wonderfully tender with a golden exterior.
• 1 medium yellow onion, sliced: Adds sweetness and depth as it caramelizes alongside the potatoes.
• 1 teaspoon black pepper: A dash of warmth to balance the lemon’s brightness.
• 1 lemon, sliced: Creates a vibrant, fresh aroma and adds acidity to the dish.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Keeps everything moist and infuses the dish with savory depth.
• 6 to 12 pitted kalamata olives (optional): A salty touch that adds a burst of authentic Mediterranean flavor.
• Fresh parsley, to garnish: For a fresh, herbal finish that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil: Use a good quality oil to bring richness and help the marinade cling to the chicken and potatoes.
• 1/4 cup lemon juice: Adds the signature tang that makes this recipe impossible to resist.
• 8-12 fresh garlic cloves, minced: Garlic is the star aromatic here, giving the dish a potent, intoxicating flavor.
• 1 1/2 tablespoons dried rosemary or oregano: Classic Greek herbs that elevate the dish to authentic flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle warmth and complexity to the marinade.

How to Make Greek Lemon-Garlic Chicken with Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is just perfect for roasting the chicken and potatoes to golden perfection without drying them out.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Pat your chicken pieces dry to ensure crisp skin, then season generously with kosher salt. Make sure to get some salt under the skin as well—this little trick helps flavor the meat deeply and keeps it moist during roasting.

Step 3: Arrange Potatoes and Onions

Spread the thinly cut potato wedges and sliced onions evenly along the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Season them with salt and a teaspoon of black pepper, which will bring out their natural sweetness and flavor as they roast.

Step 4: Assemble Chicken and Lemon

Place the seasoned chicken on top of the potatoes and onions. Tuck the slices of lemon here and there around the chicken—for an aromatic citrus burst that will infuse the entire pan as it cooks. Pour chicken broth gently over everything to add moisture and deepen the savory notes.

Step 5: Prepare and Pour the Marinade

Whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried rosemary (or oregano), and ground nutmeg in a small bowl. This vibrant marinade is what really sets this recipe apart, blending tart, herbal, and umami flavors. Pour it evenly on top of the chicken and potatoes, making sure every piece gets a good coating.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the uncovered dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 60 minutes. You’re looking for juicy chicken that hits at least 165 degrees internal temperature and tender, fork-soft potatoes. If the potatoes aren’t quite done after an hour, turn up the oven to 425 degrees and bake an extra 15 to 20 minutes. For an irresistible crispy skin, pop the dish under the broiler for a couple of minutes—but watch carefully so nothing burns.

Step 7: Garnish and Enjoy

Once removed from the oven, scatter kalamata olives over the top if you’re using them—they add that perfect salty, briny contrast. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, and voilà: your Greek Lemon-Garlic Chicken with Potatoes Recipe is ready to serve.

How to Serve Greek Lemon-Garlic Chicken with Potatoes Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a must-have—its bright color and mild peppery flavor cut through the rich garlic and lemon notes perfectly. If you love olives, adding kalamata olives as a finishing touch not only amps up the visual appeal but also adds a salty, classic Greek flair.

Side Dishes

This chicken and potato combo stands beautifully on its own, but pairing it with a crisp Greek salad or creamy tzatziki sauce creates a truly authentic Greek feast. Warm pita bread served alongside lets you scoop up every last bit of that luscious marinade.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, arrange the chicken pieces on a platter surrounded by the roasted potatoes, topped with lemon slices, olives, and fresh herbs. You can also serve individual portions on rustic plates with a side of chilled cucumber salad for a colorful Mediterranean spread that’s sure to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Greek Lemon-Garlic Chicken with Potatoes Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store in an airtight container and it will retain its flavors nicely, giving you quick and delicious meals for the next couple of days.

Freezing

If you want to save some for a later date, you can freeze the cooked chicken and potatoes separately in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. They will maintain their quality for about 2 to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

The best way to reheat this dish while keeping the skin crispy is to use an oven or toaster oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, usually about 15-20 minutes. Microwaving works in a pinch but can leave the skin soggy.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but bone-in chicken tends to be juicier and more flavorful when roasted. If you use boneless pieces, adjust cooking time since they will cook faster and may dry out if left in too long.

What type of potatoes work best?

Gold or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape and become tender without falling apart. Russets can work but may turn too soft and mushy.

Is kalamata olives mandatory?

Not at all! Olives add an authentic Greek touch and saltiness but feel free to omit or substitute with green olives or capers if you prefer.

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Absolutely! Making the lemon-garlic marinade up to a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making the dish even more delicious.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp, dry white like Assyrtiko or Sauvignon Blanc complements the bright lemon and herbs wonderfully, balancing the richness of the chicken and potatoes.

Final Thoughts

This Greek Lemon-Garlic Chicken with Potatoes Recipe is a comforting yet fresh meal that’s perfect anytime you want to impress without stress. From the effortlessly vibrant marinade to the tender roasted potatoes soaking up every bit of flavor, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Trust me, once you try it, it’s going to be one of those recipes you keep in your regular rotation—delicious, easy, and endlessly satisfying.

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