Description
Quick Mediterranean classic Greek Chicken Thighs combine zesty herbs and tangy lemon for a delightful dinner. Crisp skin and juicy meat promise a satisfying meal you’ll savor with warm pita and fresh salad.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs (680 g) chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- ½ cup (120 ml) Greek yogurt, plain (full fat)
- ¼ cup (60 ml) olive oil
- ⅓ cup (80 ml) lemon juice
- 4–5 cloves garlic, pressed or minced
- 2 tbsps dried Italian seasoning (no added salt)
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper, freshly ground
- 1 lemon zest
Instructions
- Marinade Preparation: Whisk Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper into a harmonious, smooth blend that promises rich flavor complexity.
- Chicken Marination: Thoroughly enrobe chicken thighs with the prepared marinade, ensuring complete coverage. Let the meat luxuriate in the flavor-rich mixture for 15-30 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate for deeper infusion.
- Oven Preparation and Chicken Positioning: Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil, then strategically arrange marinated chicken thighs in a single, evenly spaced layer to guarantee uniform cooking and optimal golden-brown development.
- Roasting Process: Slide the prepared chicken into the heated oven, roasting for 20-25 minutes. Monitor the transformation until the exterior turns a gorgeous golden hue and the internal temperature reaches a safe 165°F, indicating perfect doneness.
- Resting and Serving: After removing from the oven, allow the chicken to rest briefly, enabling natural juice redistribution. This crucial pause enhances the meat’s tenderness and flavor intensity, promising a delectable Greek-inspired culinary experience.
Notes
- Boost Marinade Power: Let chicken sit in yogurt mixture for at least 15 minutes to maximize flavor absorption and tenderize meat effectively.
- Prevent Overcrowding: Spread chicken thighs in a single layer with spaces between pieces to ensure crispy, evenly cooked results.
- Temperature Precision: Use a meat thermometer to confirm internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe and perfectly cooked chicken.
- Resting is Crucial: Allow chicken to rest 3-5 minutes after cooking so juices redistribute, keeping meat incredibly moist and flavorful.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 435
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 315 mg
- Fat: 34 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg