Greek Lemon Chicken & Potatoes
Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes is a classic one pan meal known for its bold citrus flavor, tender roasted chicken, and golden, herb infused potatoes. The combination of olive oil, garlic, oregano, and fresh lemon juice creates a simple marinade that transforms everyday ingredients into a deeply savory dish with bright Mediterranean character. As the chicken roasts, its juices mingle with the potatoes, allowing them to absorb layers of flavor while becoming crispy on the outside and soft inside. This meal is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or meal prep because it is hearty, satisfying, and requires minimal hands on work. Everything cooks together in one pan, making cleanup easy and flavors naturally balanced. Whether you are cooking for a crowd or preparing a comforting weeknight dinner, Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes delivers a timeless combination of zesty freshness and warm roasted goodness that feels both rustic and inviting.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50–60 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings
Ingredients
Chicken:
2 lbs (900 g) bone in, skin on chicken thighs or drumsticks
Potatoes:
1½ lbs (700 g) baby potatoes or new potatoes, halved or quartered
Marinade & Flavor Base:
¼ cup olive oil
Juice of 2 lemons (about ¼ cup)
Lemon slices, for baking
4 garlic cloves, minced or crushed
Seasonings:
1½ tsp dried oregano
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp dried thyme (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: 1 tsp Dijon mustard
Optional: ½ cup chicken broth or stock
Garnish:
2 tbsp fresh parsley or oregano, chopped
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a large roasting pan or baking sheet.
Pat chicken dry and season lightly with salt and black pepper to help the skin crisp during roasting.
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, thyme if using, and Dijon mustard if desired.
Place chicken and potatoes in the roasting pan and pour the marinade over everything, tossing to coat evenly.
Arrange chicken skin side up and scatter lemon slices around the pan for added aroma.
Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the pan if using to help keep the potatoes tender and flavorful.
Roast uncovered for 50–60 minutes, turning potatoes once halfway through cooking.
Spoon pan juices over the chicken occasionally to keep it moist and flavorful.
Roast until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and potatoes are golden and tender.
Remove from oven, rest for 5–10 minutes, then sprinkle with fresh parsley or oregano before serving.
Tips
Use skin on chicken for richer flavor and crisp texture.
Cut potatoes evenly so they roast at the same speed.
Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor compared to bottled versions.
Arrange chicken skin side up to allow browning.
Turn potatoes halfway through cooking for even crispness.
Add extra broth if the pan becomes too dry during roasting.
Marinate chicken for 30 minutes ahead of time for deeper flavor.
Roast in a single layer to prevent steaming.
Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
Finish with a quick broil for extra crispy skin if desired.
Variations
Garlic Lover’s Version: Increase garlic for bold flavor.
Spicy Greek Style: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper.
Herb Fresh Finish: Mix in fresh rosemary or thyme.
Mustard Lemon Chicken: Increase Dijon for tangy depth.
Vegetable Add In: Roast carrots, onions, or bell peppers with potatoes.
Boneless Version: Use boneless thighs with shorter cooking time.
Greek Yogurt Marinade: Add yogurt for a creamy, tenderizing effect.
Mediterranean Twist: Add olives and cherry tomatoes near the end.
Air Fryer Method: Cook smaller portions in batches for quicker results.
Lemon Honey Glaze: Add a teaspoon of honey to balance acidity.
Q&A
Can I use chicken breasts instead?
Yes, but reduce cooking time to prevent dryness.
How do I keep potatoes crispy?
Roast uncovered and avoid overcrowding the pan.
Can I prepare this ahead?
Yes, marinate and refrigerate up to 24 hours before roasting.
What potatoes work best?
Baby or Yukon Gold potatoes hold their texture well.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, store cooked portions in airtight containers.
Why is my chicken not crispy?
It may be overcrowded or too much liquid in the pan.
Can I make it dairy free?
The recipe is naturally dairy free.
What sides go well with it?
Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or warm pita bread.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Can I cook it on a sheet pan?
Yes, a large rimmed sheet pan works well.
Nutrition
(Approximate per serving)
Calories: 430
Protein: 30 g
Carbohydrates: 25 g
Fiber: 3 g
Fat: 22 g
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 520 mg
Conclusion
Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes is a timeless one pan dish that combines bright citrus, savory herbs, and tender roasted textures in a meal that feels both comforting and fresh. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, it is an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or relaxed gatherings where you want maximum flavor with minimal effort. The combination of juicy chicken, golden potatoes, and aromatic lemon garlic seasoning creates a balanced and satisfying meal that works for a wide range of tastes. Easy to customize and dependable every time, this recipe is a flavorful staple you can return to whenever you want a wholesome, Mediterranean inspired dinner.