If you're craving a dish that transports your taste buds straight to the sun-soaked shores of Greece, look no further than these Roasted Greek Chicken Thighs! Bursting with vibrant flavors from zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and fragrant oregano, this recipe is not just a meal; it's an experience. In just 55 minutes, you can serve up a mouthwatering dinner that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Ready to impress? Let’s dive into the secrets of perfectly roasted chicken that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. This helps remove excess moisture and promotes better browning.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together to create a marinade.
- Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl and pour the marinade over them. Use your hands to thoroughly coat each chicken thigh, ensuring even coverage of the herbs and seasonings.
- Arrange the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece to allow for even cooking and crispy skin.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh chopped parsley or additional lemon wedges before serving. Serve hot with your choice of Greek-style side dishes like roasted potatoes or Greek salad.
Tips
- Pat the Chicken Dry: For that coveted crispy skin, make sure to pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels before marinating. This simple step helps eliminate excess moisture, promoting better browning in the oven.
- Marinate for Flavor: While the recipe calls for a quick marinade, if you have the time, let the chicken thighs marinate in the fridge for a few hours or even overnight. This will enhance the flavors and make the chicken even more succulent.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh garlic and herbs. Fresh ingredients can elevate the dish, giving it a vibrant taste that dried versions can't quite match.
- Space it Out: When arranging the chicken on the baking sheet, make sure to leave some space between each piece. This allows hot air to circulate and ensures that every thigh gets that perfect crispy skin.
- Check the Temperature: To guarantee perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures the meat is safe to eat while remaining juicy and tender.
- Let it Rest: After roasting, allow the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful bite.
- Serve with Style: Elevate your presentation by garnishing with fresh chopped parsley or lemon wedges. Pair your chicken with traditional Greek sides like roasted potatoes or a refreshing Greek salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 300kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 24g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 120mg
