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### Instructions:
**Step 1: Preheat the Oven**
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature allows the chicken to cook through while crisping up the skin, and the potatoes to become golden and crispy on the outside.
**Step 2: Prepare the Marinade**
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the ingredients are well combined.
**Step 3: Marinate the Chicken**
Add the chicken thighs (or legs) to the bowl with the marinade. Toss the chicken in the marinade, making sure each piece is well-coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld.
**Step 4: Prepare the Potatoes**
While the chicken marinates, prepare the potatoes. Cut the potatoes into 1-inch cubes or wedges, depending on your preference. Add the potatoes to the marinade, tossing them until evenly coated.
**Step 5: Assemble the Dish**
In a large baking dish or sheet pan, arrange the marinated chicken pieces and potatoes. Make sure the chicken skin is facing up so it can crisp up in the oven. If you have extra marinade, drizzle it over the potatoes.
**Step 6: Roast in the Oven**
Roast the chicken and potatoes in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the potatoes are golden and crispy. Occasionally toss the potatoes to ensure they cook evenly.
**Step 7: Optional Chicken Broth**
If you want a little more moisture and a flavorful sauce, you can add chicken broth to the baking dish halfway through cooking. This will help create a sauce that can be spooned over the chicken and potatoes once everything is done.
**Step 8: Garnish and Serve**
Once the chicken and potatoes are cooked, remove them from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or dill for a fresh, herbaceous touch. Serve immediately with a side of Greek salad, steamed vegetables, or pita bread.
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## 6. Tips for Perfect Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes
To ensure that your **Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes** comes out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful tips:
1. **Use Bone-In, Skin-On Chicken**: The skin helps keep the chicken moist while adding flavor and crispiness. If you use boneless chicken breasts, the dish will not have the same depth of flavor.
2. **Marinate the Chicken**: Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) is key to allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.
3. **Cut Potatoes Evenly**: Cutting the potatoes into similar-sized pieces ensures even cooking. You want the potatoes to be crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
4. **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan**: If you overcrowd the pan, the chicken and potatoes will steam instead of roasting. Give them enough space to roast evenly and get crispy.
5. **Adjust the Seasoning**: Taste the marinade and adjust the seasoning before marinating the chicken. You can add more salt, pepper, or lemon to suit your preferences.
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## 7. Creative Variations and Serving Suggestions
While the classic Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes recipe is delicious on its own, there are many ways to customize it to suit your tastes.
– **Add Veggies**: Toss in some bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots with the potatoes for added color and flavor.
– **Serve with Tzatziki**: For an extra layer of Greek flavor, serve your Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes with a side of creamy tzatziki sauce for dipping.
– **Swap the Potatoes**: You can use sweet potatoes for a different twist on the dish, offering a slightly sweeter flavor that pairs nicely with the lemon-garlic marinade.
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## 8. Health Benefits of Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes
This dish offers a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates, making it both delicious and nutritious.
– **Chicken**: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is important for muscle building and repair. It’s also a good source of essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin B6, phosphorus, and niacin.
– **Potatoes**: Potatoes are a great source of carbohydrates, fiber, and potassium. They’re also rich in antioxidants that support overall health.
– **Olive Oil**: Olive oil is a heart-healthy fat that contains monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce the risk of heart disease.
– **Lemon**: Lemons are packed with vitamin C, an essential nutrient that supports the immune system and skin health.
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## 9. Frequently Asked Questions
**Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts?**
A: While chicken breasts can be used, bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or legs are recommended for this recipe as they provide more flavor and remain tender during roasting.
**Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?**
A: Yes, you can marinate the chicken and potatoes the night before and roast them when you’re ready to serve.
**Q: Can I use other types of potatoes?**
A: Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best for this recipe, but you can experiment with other types of potatoes like Russet potatoes for a different texture.
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## 10. Conclusion
**Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes** is the perfect balance of flavors, offering tender chicken, crispy potatoes, and a zesty lemon-garlic marinade that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. With simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking method, this dish is as easy to make as it is satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or preparing for a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the bright, tangy flavors and savor the comfort that comes with every bite!
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