Greek-Style Herb Roasted Chicken with Warm Olives, Citrus
Juicy oven-roasted chicken infused with lemon, oregano, thyme, and garlic, served over warm citrus-kissed olives. This dish captures the heart of Greek home cooking—simple, fragrant, and deeply comforting.
⏱ Time Required
Prep: 15 minutes
Marinate (optional but best): 30 minutes
Cook: 55–60 minutes
Total: ~1 hour 30 minutes
🧺 Ingredients
For the Chicken
1 whole chicken (1.4–1.6 kg), spatchcocked (or 6 bone-in pieces)
4 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
Zest of 2 lemons
Juice of 1½ lemons
5 garlic cloves, smashed
2 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp sweet paprika (optional, very mild)
1½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
For the Warm Olives & Citrus
1 cup mixed olives (Kalamata & green), pitted
Peel of ½ orange, thin strips
Juice of ½ orange
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small rosemary or thyme sprig
To Finish
Fresh parsley or dill, chopped
Extra lemon wedges
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Marinate the Chicken
Mix olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Rub generously over chicken, including under the skin.
Marinate 30 minutes to overnight.
2️⃣ Roast
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
Place chicken skin-side up on a roasting tray.
Roast 45–50 minutes, until golden and internal temp reaches 75°C (165°F).
Rest 10 minutes.
3️⃣ Warm the Olives
In a small pan, gently heat olive oil.
Add olives, orange peel, orange juice, and herbs.
Warm for 5–7 minutes (do not fry).
4️⃣ Serve
Carve chicken and spoon warm olives and citrus juices over the top.
Finish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges.
🌿 Chef Tips
Spatchcocking gives extra-crispy skin and juicy meat
Orange peel adds sweetness without sugar
Always rest chicken for maximum tenderness
❓ Frequently asked questions FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs only?
Yes — roast 35–40 minutes.
Best side dishes?
Lemon potatoes
Orzo with herbs
Greek village salad
Warm pita & tzatziki
Make ahead?
Marinate up to 24 hours in advance.
🥗 Nutritional Information
Calories: 460 kcal
Protein: 40 g
Fat: 30 g (mostly olive oil & natural fats)
Carbs: 6 g