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### **Step-by-Step Instructions for Baked Greek Lemon Chicken**
Now that you have all the ingredients, let’s walk through the simple steps to create this mouthwatering dish.
#### **Step 1: Prepare the Marinade**
The first step is to prepare the marinade, which will infuse the chicken with flavor and help tenderize it.
1. **Combine the Ingredients**: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme, rosemary, honey (if using), salt, pepper, and white wine vinegar (if using). Whisk everything together until the ingredients are well combined.
2. **Marinate the Chicken**: Place the chicken thighs (or breasts) in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for a deeper flavor). For best results, marinate the chicken overnight.
#### **Step 2: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish**
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will allow the chicken to roast at the perfect temperature, ensuring a golden, crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy and tender.
1. **Prepare the Baking Dish**: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or nonstick spray. If you prefer to cook the chicken on a baking sheet, line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. The goal is to make sure the chicken doesn’t stick to the surface while it roasts.
#### **Step 3: Roast the Chicken**
Once the chicken has marinated and the oven is preheated, it’s time to roast the chicken.
1. **Arrange the Chicken**: Take the chicken pieces out of the marinade (reserving any leftover marinade) and place them in the prepared baking dish or on the baking sheet. If you want, you can drizzle a little extra olive oil over the chicken for added moisture and flavor.
2. **Roast the Chicken**: Roast the chicken for 35–45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If you’re using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, the skin should be golden brown and crispy. For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for the last 2–3 minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye on it to avoid burning.
3. **Baste the Chicken**: If desired, you can baste the chicken with the leftover marinade halfway through cooking for an added layer of flavor. However, make sure to discard any leftover marinade that has come into contact with raw chicken to prevent cross-contamination.
#### **Step 4: Garnish and Serve**
Once the chicken is cooked to perfection, it’s time to garnish and serve.
1. **Garnish with Fresh Herbs and Lemon**: After removing the chicken from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish the chicken with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for a burst of fresh flavor. You can also add a few lemon slices for extra brightness.
2. **Serve and Enjoy**: Baked Greek Lemon Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Try serving it with roasted potatoes, a Greek salad, or couscous. You can also serve it with a side of tzatziki sauce for an extra Mediterranean flair.
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### **Serving Suggestions and Pairings**
Baked Greek Lemon Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some delicious serving ideas to elevate your meal:
#### **Side Dishes:**
– **Greek Salad**: A fresh Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese complements the lemony chicken perfectly.
– **Roasted Vegetables**: Roasted vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini make a great side for this dish.
– **Rice Pilaf**: Fluffy rice pilaf with herbs or orzo pasta will soak up the lemony juices from the chicken.
– **Tzatziki Sauce**: Serve with a cool, creamy tzatziki sauce for an added Mediterranean touch.
#### **Wine Pairings:**
– **White Wine**: A crisp, dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay would pair beautifully with the zesty flavors of the chicken.
– **Red Wine**: If you prefer red wine, try a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir, which complements the savory, herbed flavors of the chicken without overpowering it.
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### **Tips and Variations**
– **Marinating Time**: If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes of marinating will work wonders. However, for a more intense flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
– **Substitute Chicken Parts**: While chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe due to their tenderness and flavor, you can also use chicken breasts or even chicken drumsticks. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
– **Add Spice**: For those who enjoy a little heat, try adding red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
– **Make it a One-Pan Meal**: You can add vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or bell peppers to the baking dish to cook alongside the chicken, making it a convenient one-pan meal.
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### **Conclusion**
Baked Greek Lemon Chicken is a perfect dish for anyone who loves vibrant flavors and easy-to-make meals. The marriage of tangy lemon, savory herbs, and juicy chicken creates a mouthwatering dish that is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting guests, this dish will impress with its bold flavors and Mediterranean flair. So, don’t lose this recipe—add it to your culinary repertoire, and enjoy a delightful meal that brings the flavors of Greece straight to your table!
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