If you’re looking for a simple but flavorful dinner, this baked Greek lemon chicken recipe is the perfect choice. It’s made with tender chicken thighs marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, lemon juice, herbs, and garlic. The dish bakes up juicy on the inside, slightly crispy on the outside, and is finished with a touch of parmesan cheese. Pair it with rice, mashed potatoes, or a side of green beans for a complete meal your whole family will love.

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Why You’ll Love This Greek Lemon Chicken

This recipe brings the bright, fresh flavors of Greek cooking right into your kitchen. The marinade adds tanginess from the lemon juice, richness from the olive oil, and just enough sweetness from the honey. Baking the chicken makes it easy and fuss-free, so it’s perfect for weeknights but delicious enough to serve when you’re entertaining

Ingredients You’ll Need for Greek Lemon Chicken

4–6 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
2/3 cup olive oil
Juice of 2 whole lemons (about 1/2 cup lemon juice)
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon dried basil
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
2.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1/4 cup grated or shredded parmesan cheese

How to Make Baked Greek Lemon Chicken

Make the Marinade

In a large bowl or measuring cup, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, basil, salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, and minced garlic. The mixture should be smooth and well combined.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs into a casserole dish and pour the marinade over them. For best flavor, cover and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for 1–2 hours. If you’re short on time, you can bake it right away.

Add the Parmesan

After marinating, sprinkle the parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken. This adds a savory, slightly nutty flavor that balances the brightness of the lemon.

Bake the Chicken

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F for 45 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness so your chicken comes out juicy and perfectly cooked.

using a thermometer to check the internal temp of the chicken

Serve and Enjoy

Serve your baked Greek lemon chicken hot with fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or a side of roasted green beans. Don’t forget to spoon some of the remaining marinade from the dish over the chicken for even more flavor.

Tips for Success

For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight.
Make sure not to skip the parmesan—it helps create a golden, flavorful topping.
Always check your chicken with an instant-read thermometer to avoid overcooking.

Serving Suggestions

This chicken pairs beautifully with so many sides. Try serving it with:

A crisp Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese.
Roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers.
Warm pita bread and tzatziki for a Mediterranean-style dinner.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through.

Variations to Try

Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat.
Add crumbled feta cheese instead of parmesan for extra Mediterranean flavor.
Try grilling the chicken instead of baking for a smoky twist.

Conclusion

This baked Greek lemon chicken recipe is an easy way to bring bold Mediterranean flavors to your table. With simple ingredients and just a few steps, you’ll have a hearty meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you serve it with rice, potatoes, or green beans, this dish is a crowd-pleaser every time.