The Best Fluffy Pancakes recipe you will fall in love with. Full of tips and tricks to help you make the best pancakes.
If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with bold Mediterranean flavor, look no further than authentic Greek lemon chicken and potatoes. This beloved Greek classic combines juicy, herb-marinated chicken and perfectly roasted potatoes in a tangy, garlicky lemon sauce that’s as simple as it is satisfying.
Made with wholesome ingredients like extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and aromatic oregano, this one-pan meal brings the essence of Greek cuisine right to your dinner table. Whether you’re following a Mediterranean diet or just want a flavorful family dinner, this dish checks all the boxes.
In this post, you’ll learn exactly how to make this traditional recipe at home—with all the tips and tricks to get crispy potatoes and tender, juicy chicken, just like they do in Greece.
Why You’ll Love This Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
A Burst of Mediterranean Flavor in Every Bite
This dish is a celebration of Greek cuisine, known for its simple ingredients and bold flavors. The combination of fresh lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and extra virgin olive oil creates a zesty, herbaceous marinade that soaks into the chicken and potatoes. Every bite brings a balance of brightness, savoriness, and a touch of earthiness—true to traditional Greek cooking.
One-Pan Simplicity with Minimal Cleanup
Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend meal, this one-pan Greek dinner keeps things easy and stress-free. You’ll roast the chicken and potatoes together in a single baking dish, making preparation and cleanup a breeze. It’s as convenient as it is delicious.
Perfect for the Whole Family
This dish is a crowd-pleaser that both adults and kids enjoy. The crispy potatoes are golden and flavorful, and the tender chicken is juicy and comforting. You can scale it up for guests or keep it simple for a quiet family meal. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and fits into the Mediterranean diet, making it a healthy choice everyone can enjoy.
A Taste of Greece at Home
You don’t have to travel to Athens or Santorini to enjoy the comforting flavors of Greek lemon chicken and potatoes. This recipe brings a touch of the Mediterranean to your kitchen—perfect for when you’re craving traditional Greek food that feels both rustic and elegant.
Ingredients You’ll Need (With Traditional Greek Flavors)
To create this classic Greek dish, it’s important to use simple, fresh, and high-quality ingredients. Greek cooking shines through the balance of natural flavors, and this recipe is a perfect example of that. Here’s what you’ll need to make it authentically at home.
Chicken (Bone-in, Skin-on Pieces)
Choose bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks for the best results. These cuts stay juicy during roasting and soak up the marinade beautifully. You can also use a whole chicken cut into pieces if you prefer. Keeping the skin on helps the chicken brown and develop a delicious crispy texture.
Potatoes (Yukon Gold or Red Potatoes)
Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal because of their creamy texture and ability to crisp up nicely in the oven. Red potatoes or baby potatoes are also good options and hold their shape well while roasting. Cut them into thick wedges or large chunks so they cook evenly alongside the chicken.
Fresh Lemon Juice
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential to give the dish its bright, tangy flavor. It balances the richness of the chicken and adds that classic zesty note that defines this recipe. Avoid using bottled lemon juice for the best taste.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
A generous amount of good quality extra virgin olive oil is key to adding richness and helping both the chicken and potatoes roast beautifully. The olive oil also enhances the overall flavor, giving the dish its Mediterranean character.
Garlic Cloves (Minced or Crushed)
Garlic adds depth and savoriness to the marinade. Using several cloves ensures the flavors fully develop and infuse the meat and potatoes during cooking.
Dried Oregano (Preferably Greek Oregano)
Oregano is a staple herb in Greek cooking. Greek oregano, in particular, has a robust and aromatic flavor that is essential for creating the authentic taste of this dish. It brings the herbaceous note that ties all the ingredients together.
Salt and Black Pepper
Seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper is important to enhance all the natural flavors. Use them to taste, seasoning generously but balanced.
Optional Extras
- Adding a splash of chicken broth or water can keep the potatoes tender while roasting.
- A pinch of paprika can add subtle warmth and color.
- Lemon zest can provide an extra layer of citrus aroma for a more intense flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes
Preparing this classic Greek dish is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these steps carefully to achieve tender, flavorful chicken and perfectly roasted potatoes infused with bright lemon and aromatic herbs.
1. Prepare the Marinade
Start by combining fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a large bowl. Slowly whisk in a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil until the mixture is well blended. This marinade is the heart of the dish, delivering a vibrant and tangy flavor that penetrates the chicken and potatoes.
2. Marinate the Chicken
Place your chicken pieces in the bowl with the marinade, making sure each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. For best results, marinate overnight—this allows the flavors to deeply infuse the meat, making the chicken tender and bursting with flavor.
3. Prepare the Potatoes
While the chicken marinates, wash and peel your potatoes if desired, then cut them into large wedges or chunks. Toss the potato pieces in a little olive oil, salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of oregano for extra flavor. If you want, add a splash of the marinade to the potatoes to ensure they soak up some of the lemony goodness.
4. Arrange in the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to around 400°F (200°C). In a large baking dish or roasting pan, arrange the marinated chicken pieces evenly, skin side up. Spread the potatoes around the chicken in a single layer to ensure they roast evenly. Pour any remaining marinade over the entire dish for extra moisture and flavor. For best roasting results, consider using a high-quality nonstick baking dish like the Ninja NeverStick Nonstick Baking Dish. It ensures even heat distribution and easy cleanup.
5. Roast Until Golden and Tender
Place the dish in the preheated oven and roast for about 45–55 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is golden and crispy. Halfway through cooking, turn the potatoes to help them brown evenly and baste the chicken with some of the pan juices. You can check the doneness of the chicken by piercing near the bone—the juices should run clear.
6. Rest Before Serving
Once cooked, remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and ensures each bite is moist and flavorful.
Tips for Perfect Crispy Potatoes and Juicy Chicken
Achieving the perfect balance of crispy potatoes and tender, juicy chicken can sometimes feel tricky, but with a few key techniques, you’ll master this Greek classic every time. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish comes out just right:
1. Use the Right Chicken Cuts
Opt for bone-in, skin-on pieces like thighs or drumsticks. The bone helps retain moisture during cooking, while the skin crisps up beautifully, sealing in the juices. Avoid boneless or skinless cuts if you want that perfect texture and rich flavor.
2. Don’t Skip the Marinade Time
Marinating the chicken for at least an hour — or ideally overnight — allows the flavors to penetrate deeply. The lemon juice tenderizes the meat, while the garlic, oregano, and olive oil infuse it with authentic Mediterranean taste. This step is crucial for juicy, flavorful chicken.
3. Preheat Your Oven Properly
A hot oven (around 400°F / 200°C) is essential for roasting. The high temperature encourages the chicken skin to crisp and the potatoes to brown and become crunchy on the outside while staying soft inside.
4. Cut Potatoes Evenly and Large Enough
Cut your potatoes into evenly sized chunks or wedges, not too small. Larger pieces roast better without drying out and develop a creamy interior with a crispy exterior. If the pieces are uneven, some will overcook while others remain underdone.
5. Toss Potatoes in Oil and Seasonings Generously
Coat the potatoes well with olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs. The oil promotes crisping, while the seasoning ensures they’re flavorful throughout. You can even toss them lightly in some of the marinade for an extra burst of lemony flavor.
6. Arrange the Chicken and Potatoes Properly
Place the chicken skin-side up in the roasting pan, ensuring it isn’t crowded. Give the potatoes space around the chicken pieces so they roast evenly and get that desirable crisp texture. Crowding the pan can cause steaming rather than roasting.
7. Turn Potatoes Midway Through Cooking
About halfway through roasting, use a spatula to gently flip the potatoes. This helps all sides brown evenly and prevents sogginess on one side. You can also baste the chicken with pan juices at this point for extra flavor and moisture.
8. Let the Chicken Rest After Roasting
Once the chicken is cooked, allow it to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This lets the juices redistribute within the meat, ensuring each bite is tender and moist.
9. Optional: Broil for Extra Crispiness
If after roasting the skin or potatoes aren’t as crispy as you like, place the dish under the broiler for 2–3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. This quick blast of heat will enhance the crisp texture beautifully.
Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips
This Greek lemon chicken and potatoes dish is wonderfully versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Plus, knowing how to store and reheat leftovers properly will help you enjoy this flavorful meal even days after cooking.
Serving Suggestions
1. Serve with a Fresh Greek Salad
A crisp Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese dressed in olive oil and oregano complements the warm, lemony chicken and potatoes perfectly. The freshness and acidity balance the richness of the roasted dish.
2. Add a Side of Tzatziki Sauce
Tzatziki — a creamy yogurt sauce with cucumber, garlic, and dill — is a classic accompaniment. Its cool and tangy flavor pairs beautifully with the savory chicken and roasted potatoes, adding a refreshing contrast.
3. Include Warm Pita Bread or Crusty Bread
Offering some warm pita or rustic bread alongside allows you to scoop up the delicious pan juices and tzatziki. It also rounds out the meal and adds texture variety.
4. Pair with Steamed or Roasted Vegetables
Lightly steamed green beans, asparagus, or sautéed spinach work well to add a touch of greenery and extra nutrients to the plate without overpowering the main dish.
Storage Tips
1. Cooling and Storing Leftovers
Allow the chicken and potatoes to cool to room temperature before storing. Transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. Properly stored, leftovers will keep well for 3 to 4 days.
2. Freezing for Longer Storage
If you want to save the dish for later, place cooled chicken and potatoes in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months. For best texture, freeze the chicken and potatoes separately if possible.
3. Reheating Instructions
To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the chicken and potatoes on a baking sheet and warm for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. This method helps maintain crispy skin and a nice texture on the potatoes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep crispiness, but if short on time, the microwave can be used—just expect softer skin.
4. Avoid Overcooking on Reheat
Reheating at a moderate temperature is key to keeping the chicken juicy and potatoes crisp. Overheating can dry out the meat and make potatoes mushy, so monitor the reheating process closely.
