On World Protein Day 2026, try this Greek lemon chicken with lemony and herby Mediterranean flavours, perfect for dinner. The magic lies in the marinade, which is a combination of fresh lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil, garlic, and the classic Mediterranean herb combination of dried oregano and thyme. Dijon mustard adds more flavour and helps the marinade cling to the chicken, while salt and black pepper season it perfectly. What makes this recipe particularly foolproof is the use of bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, which are naturally juicy and flavourful. Unlike chicken breasts, thighs are virtually impossible to overcook in the oven, making them ideal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
UNITSIngredients
8 piecesBone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (For the chicken)
⅓ cupExtra-virgin olive oil (For the Greek lemon marinade)
In a small bowl, mix extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, Dijon mustard, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk everything until well combined. Note: Use dried herbs for this recipe, not fresh ones, as they provide better flavour.
Description - Step 2
Step 2: Marinate the chicken
Place chicken thighs in a large bowl. Pour the lemon-herb marinade over the chicken. Toss well to coat each piece. Cover and refrigerate for 1-2 hours. Important: Do not marinate longer than 3 hours, as the acidic lemon juice will over-tenderise the meat.
Description - Step 3
Step 3: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C. Take the chicken out of the refrigerator while the oven preheats to take off the chill.
Description - Step 4
Step 4: Arrange chicken in a baking dish
Transfer the marinated chicken thighs to a baking dish, arranging them skin side up in a single layer. Pour any remaining marinade from the bowl over the chicken. This helps keep the chicken moist and adds more flavour.
Description - Step 5
Step 5: Bake the chicken
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 40-45 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked. Check doneness with an instant-read thermometer – it should register 80°C when inserted into the thickest part of the thigh. Optional: Baste the chicken once or twice during cooking for extra moist and flavourful chicken.
Description - Step 6
Step 6: Broil for crispy skin (optional)
For extra crispy, golden-brown skin, turn on the top oven broiler during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
Description - Step 7
Step 7: Rest and serve
Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh herbs if desired, then serve hot.
Search
Login
Mediterranean
Easy
Main Course
