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Quick & Easy Greek Lemon Chicken

If you’re seeking a delicious and simple recipe that embodies the vibrant flavours of Greece, look no further than Quick & Easy Greek Lemon Chicken. This dish combines succulent chicken with zesty lemon, fragrant herbs, and a hint of garlic, resulting in a meal that’s both refreshing and packed with character. Perfect for busy weekdays, this recipe allows you to indulge in Mediterranean cuisine without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

For this delightful Greek dish, you will need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Juice of 2 large lemons
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano (or fresh if available)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges, to serve

Method

1. Marinate the Chicken
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This zesty marinade is the star of the dish, infusing the chicken with bold flavours. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl, ensuring they are well coated in the marinade. Cover and leave to marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, even a brief 10-minute marination will enhance the flavour.

2. Preheat and Prepare
   Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan)/ Gas mark 6. While the oven heats up, remove the chicken from the marinade and set aside. For added flavour, reserve the remaining marinade for later use.

3. Cook the Chicken
   Heat a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of olive oil, then sear the chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. This step is crucial for developing flavour and texture. Once browned, pour any reserved marinade over the chicken.

4. Bake
   Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (the juices should run clear, and an internal thermometer should read 75°C). This simple cooking method ensures that the chicken remains tender and juicy.

5. Serve and Enjoy
   Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve on a platter, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and lemon wedges. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp Greek salad, fluffy rice, or roasted vegetables.

Tips for the Perfect Greek Lemon Chicken

• Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary to elevate the dish further.
• Marination Time: If possible, marinate the chicken for several hours or overnight for maximum flavour absorption.
• Add Veggies: To create a one-pan meal, add sliced bell peppers, courgettes, or cherry tomatoes into the skillet before baking. These will roast beautifully alongside the chicken, soaking up the delicious flavours.

Conclusion

Quick & Easy Greek Lemon Chicken is an uncomplicated yet flavourful dish that is sure to impress. With minimal preparation and cooking time, you can easily transport your dinner table to the sun-soaked shores of Greece. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends, this recipe is a testament to the beauty of Mediterranean cooking—fresh, simple, and delicious. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of Greece right in your own home!