Introduction
Greek Chicken is a flavorful and aromatic dish that evokes the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. This delightful recipe combines tender chicken with a blend of fresh herbs, spices, and zesty lemon, creating a dish that is both healthy and satisfying. Ideal for weeknight dinners or gatherings, Greek Chicken pairs wonderfully with rice, vegetables, or a simple salad, bringing a taste of Greece to your table.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken pieces – 2 pounds
Olive oil – 1/4 cup
Fresh lemon juice – 1/4 cup
Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
Dried oregano – 2 teaspoons
Salt – 1 teaspoon
Black pepper – 1/2 teaspoon
Paprika – 1 teaspoon
Fresh parsley – for garnish
Prep Time
The prep time for this Greek Chicken recipe is approximately 15 to 20 minutes. This includes marinating the chicken and preparing the ingredients.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time for Greek Chicken is around 40 minutes. When combined with prep time, the total time to prepare this dish is about 1 hour. This recipe yields approximately 4 servings, making it perfect for a family meal or small gathering.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade. Ensure each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for better flavor.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Arrange Chicken in Baking Dish
Transfer the marinated chicken to a baking dish, placing the pieces skin-side up. Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken.
Bake the Chicken
Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The skin should be golden and crispy.
Prepare the Salad
While the chicken is baking, prepare a Greek salad by combining diced cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese in a bowl. Dress with olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Rest the Chicken
Once the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute.
Serve the Meal
Serve the chicken warm alongside the Greek salad. You can also add pita bread and tzatziki sauce for a complete meal.
Notes
Marination Time
For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but overnight is ideal if you plan ahead.
Cooking Method
This chicken can also be grilled. Just make sure you have a consistent medium heat and watch closely to avoid burning.
Leftover Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Vegetable Variations
Feel free to add other vegetables to the salad or roast additional vegetables alongside the chicken for a more versatile side dish.
Cook techniques
Marinating
Marinating the chicken is essential for infusing flavor. A mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs can be used to create a tasty marinade. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least a couple of hours or ideally overnight for maximum flavor penetration.
Grilling
Grilling the chicken gives it a charred flavor and enhances the overall dish. Ensure that the grill is preheated to a medium-high temperature for the best results. Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Sautéing
Sautéing the chicken in a hot pan allows for a quick cooking method while retaining moisture. Using olive oil prevents sticking and adds flavor. A skillet with high sides can help contain juices and splatter.
Roasting
Roasting the chicken in the oven is a fantastic way to ensure even cooking. Applying a seasoning blend and roasting at a high temperature promotes crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy.
Resting
Letting the chicken rest after cooking is crucial to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. This results in a more succulent and flavorful chicken. Rest for at least 5 to 10 minutes before slicing.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts. They are generally more flavorful and juicy, making them a great choice for this recipe.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but overnight is ideal for maximum flavor.
What sides pair well with Greek chicken?
Greek chicken pairs well with sides such as Greek salad, rice pilaf, or roasted vegetables.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time and cook it later. It can also be fully cooked and stored in the refrigerator for a few days.
Is it necessary to use fresh herbs?
While fresh herbs provide a richer flavor, dried herbs can also be used if fresh ones are unavailable. Just use about one-third of the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh.
Conclusion
The Greek Chicken recipe is not only simple to prepare but also burst with vibrant flavors that capture the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. With its harmonious blend of herbs and spices, this dish can easily become a family favorite. Pair it with a variety of sides for a well-rounded meal that is both satisfying and healthy.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Greek Chicken Salad
Combine grilled Greek chicken with fresh greens, cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, feta cheese, and a light lemon-olive oil dressing for a refreshing salad.
Roasted Vegetables
Serve Greek chicken alongside roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant, drizzled with olive oil and seasoned with oregano for a colorful side.
Lemon Rice Pilaf
Pair the Greek chicken with a fluffy lemon rice pilaf, adding herbs like dill and parsley for extra flavor, to complement the main dish.
Tzatziki Sauce
Enhance your Greek chicken with a side of tzatziki sauce made from Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill for a refreshing dip.
Pita Bread and Hummus
Serve alongside warm pita bread and a side of hummus for a complete Mediterranean platter that balances the bold flavors of the chicken.
Greek Quinoa Bowl
For a healthy twist, create a quinoa bowl topped with Greek chicken, cherry tomatoes, olives, and a drizzle of lemon vinaigrette for a nutritious meal.