Mediterranean Lemon-Oregano Chicken Baked to Juicy Perfection
Description
This Mediterranean Lemon-Oregano Chicken is everything you want from an oven-baked chicken dish: tender, juicy meat infused with fresh lemon, garlic, and earthy oregano, all baked until golden and fragrant. Olive oil keeps the chicken moist while allowing the herbs to bloom, and the citrus cuts through beautifully, making this dish feel light yet deeply satisfying. Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or a casual dinner with guests—simple ingredients, bold Mediterranean flavor.
Time Breakdown
Prep time: 15 minutes
Marinating time (optional but recommended): 30 minutes – 2 hours
Cook time: 35–40 minutes
Resting time: 5 minutes
Total time: ~55 minutes (or longer with marination)
Ingredients (Serves 4)
4 chicken thighs or breasts (bone-in or boneless, skin on or off)
3 tablespoons olive oil
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1½ lemons
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons dried oregano (or 1½ tbsp fresh, chopped)
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
Fresh oregano or parsley, for garnish
Lemon slices, for baking and serving
Instructions
1. Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, chili flakes, salt, pepper, and onion powder.
2. Marinate the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry and place it in a bowl or baking dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, turning to coat well.
Best flavor: Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours in the fridge).
In a rush? You can bake immediately—still delicious.
3. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C / 400°F.
4. Bake
Arrange the chicken in a single layer in a lightly greased baking dish. Add lemon slices around and on top.
Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, basting once halfway through, until:
The chicken is golden
Juices run clear
Internal temperature reaches 75°C / 165°F
5. Rest & Serve
Remove from oven and rest for 5 minutes. Spoon pan juices over the chicken and garnish with fresh herbs.
Serving Suggestions
Roasted potatoes or lemon rice
Mediterranean salad with olives & feta
Warm pita or crusty bread
Steamed green beans or grilled zucchini
Questions & Answers
Q: Can I use boneless chicken breasts?
Yes! Reduce baking time to 25–30 minutes and keep an eye on moisture.
Q: How do I keep the chicken juicy?
Don’t overcook, use olive oil generously, and let the chicken rest before serving.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Marinate the chicken up to 12 hours in advance for even deeper flavor.
Q: Can I cook this in an air fryer?
Yes! Cook at 180°C / 360°F for 16–18 minutes, flipping halfway.
Q: Is fresh oregano better than dried?
Fresh gives a brighter flavor, but dried oregano works beautifully and is more traditional in baked dishes.
Q: Can I add vegetables to the pan?
Definitely—potatoes, cherry tomatoes, onions, or bell peppers roast perfectly alongside the chicken.