Name: Greek Lemon Chicken Thighs Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: PT-491159H56S
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds bone-in chicken thighs (about 6-8 pieces); ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil; ¼ cup fresh lemon juice; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; 2 teaspoons dried dill; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes; 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard; 2 teaspoons kosher salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; Lemon slices; Fresh chopped parsley

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 86 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant Mediterranean flavors and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma, then this Greek Lemon Chicken Thighs Recipe is calling your name. Juicy, tender chicken thighs bathed in a bright and tangy lemon-garlic marinade, elevated by herbs like dill and Italian seasoning, create a delightful harmony of tastes that feels both comforting and exciting at the same time. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or impressing guests over the weekend, this recipe hits all the right notes with its simplicity and mouthwatering depth.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white round plate filled with eight uncooked chicken thighs, pale pink and light beige in color, stacked closely in the center. Around the plate, on a white marbled surface, are small bowls and ingredients: a small clear glass bowl with yellow olive oil on the right, a white ceramic container with salt and a small golden spoon near the bottom right, a small black dish with a white floral pattern holding several garlic cloves with light brown skin in the middle, a clear bowl with yellow mustard at the bottom left, and another white bowl with green dried herbs and black pepper near the top left. Fresh green herb sprigs and a small container with red chili flakes are scattered around, with two halves of a bright yellow lemon placed near the bottom center. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Greek Lemon Chicken Thighs Recipe plays a starring role in crafting a dish that’s bursting with flavor yet surprisingly simple to pull together. From the rich olive oil to the punchy lemon juice and fragrant herbs, each component adds texture, brightness, and savory notes that marry beautifully in every bite.

1 ½ pounds bone-in chicken thighs: The perfect choice for juicy, flavorful meat that stays tender during cooking.
⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil: Acts as the base of the marinade and gives a silky richness to the chicken.
¼ cup fresh lemon juice: Delivers a bright, zesty tang that is signature to this recipe.
4 garlic cloves, minced: Adds depth and a savory punch that complements the lemon beautifully.
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that infuses warmth and a hint of earthiness.
2 teaspoons dried dill: Brings a classic Greek flavor that’s fresh and slightly grassy.
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds just a touch of heat to keep things interesting.
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard: Provides a subtle tang and helps emulsify the marinade.
2 teaspoons kosher salt: Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors and seasoning the chicken perfectly.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle sharpness that balances the bright lemon.
Lemon slices (optional for garnish): Adds a decorative and fragrant touch when serving.
Fresh chopped parsley (optional for garnish): A burst of fresh green color and mild herbal brightness.

How to Make Greek Lemon Chicken Thighs Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by whisking together the extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, dried dill, red pepper flakes, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. This vibrant marinade infuses the chicken with layers of citrus, herbaceous notes, and just the right touch of spice.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Pat the bone-in chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure the marinade clings beautifully. Add the thighs to the bowl with the marinade, turning them to coat each piece thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, although a couple of hours or overnight will elevate the flavors even more.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot by the time you’re ready to bake. This temperature ensures the chicken skin crisps up perfectly while the meat remains tender and juicy on the inside.

Step 4: Arrange and Bake the Chicken

Place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up on a rimmed baking sheet or a roasting pan, pouring any remaining marinade over the top. For extra presentation and flavor, feel free to lay lemon slices over the chicken now. Bake for around 35-40 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Rest and Garnish

Once the chicken is out of the oven, let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a lively pop of color and an extra layer of flavor before serving.

How to Serve Greek Lemon Chicken Thighs Recipe

The image shows six pieces of raw chicken thighs sprinkled with herbs and small bits of garlic, arranged neatly in two rows inside a white rectangular ceramic baking dish filled with a light marinade. The chicken meat is pale with speckles of green, red, and brown herbs. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface, surrounded by fresh sprigs of green herbs, two lemon halves, a small white bowl with a golden spoon containing salt, a cup with crushed red pepper flakes, a bowl of golden olive oil, a black bowl with garlic cloves, and a gray and white striped cloth napkin. The scene is bright and clean, with a fresh and simple kitchen feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a few lemon slices and fresh parsley as a garnish not only enhances the visual appeal but also reinforces the fresh, citrusy taste of the dish. You might also consider a light drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese to deepen the Greek character.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs wonderfully with classic Mediterranean sides such as fluffy rice pilaf, roasted vegetables, or a crisp Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and red onion. For a cozy comfort option, creamy mashed potatoes or buttery couscous complement the tangy chicken beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive twist, serve the chicken over a bed of herbed quinoa or alongside warm pita bread with a dollop of tzatziki for dipping. You can also shred any leftover chicken to toss into a fresh salad or a hearty wrap, making the most of this versatile Greek Lemon Chicken Thighs Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows you to enjoy the delicious flavors again without any loss of juiciness or seasoning.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freeze the cooked chicken thighs in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months and thaw quickly when you’re ready to enjoy them again.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, covering loosely with foil to prevent drying out. This method helps maintain the crispy skin while warming the meat evenly.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?

Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs will cook a bit faster and stay tender, though bone-in thighs tend to offer more flavor and juiciness. Adjust cooking time accordingly, usually around 25-30 minutes at 400°F.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?

While marinating isn’t strictly necessary, letting the chicken soak up the marinade for at least 30 minutes significantly boosts the flavor and tenderness.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! The recipe as is contains no dairy, so it’s naturally dairy-free and perfect for those avoiding milk products.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

No worries—combine dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary as a homemade substitute to keep that herbal Mediterranean vibe.

How spicy is this dish with the red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add just a mild background heat that enhances flavor without overpowering the lemony brightness. You can adjust or omit them based on your spice preference.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this Greek Lemon Chicken Thighs Recipe, it’s going to become a go-to favorite in your meal rotation. It’s effortless to make yet packed with so much fresh, tangy flavor that it never feels ordinary. Give it a whirl and share it with friends or family — you’ll love how this bright, herbaceous dish brings a bit of sunshine to your table any time of year.

Greek Lemon Chicken Thighs Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need