Greek Lemon Chicken

This Greek lemon chicken recipe is incredibly easy and flavorful, featuring tender, juicy chicken thighs marinated in a bright, lemony, garlicky, herby marinade. Served with lemon herb rice and air fryer green beans, it’s a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil (marinade)
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (marinade)
• 4 minced garlic cloves (marinade)
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano (marinade)
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme (marinade)
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard (marinade)
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt (marinade)
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper (marinade)
• 8 bone-in chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (rice)
• 1/2 medium onion, diced (rice)
• 2 minced garlic cloves (rice)
• Zest of 1 lemon (rice)
• 1 1/2 cups rinsed and drained Basmati rice
• 2 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• Juice of 1 lemon (rice)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (rice)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh herbs (parsley, oregano, dill, or other) (rice)
• 1 pound green beans
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (green beans)
• 2 minced garlic cloves (green beans)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (green beans)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper (green beans)
• Optional: Lemon slices for garnish

Preparation Time

• Total Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 4-8 servings

Step 1: Make the Lemon Herb Marinade

Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place chicken thighs in a bowl or bag and pour marinade over them, ensuring they are fully coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours.

Step 3: Bake the Chicken

Place marinated chicken thighs in a 9×13 inch casserole dish, pouring any leftover marinade on top.

Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 40-45 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 175°F (80°C). Baste a few times during cooking. For extra crispy skin, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Herb Rice

Sauté diced onion in olive oil over medium heat until softened. Add minced garlic and lemon zest and sauté for another minute.

Add rinsed rice and sauté for another minute. Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes.

Remove from heat, stir, and let rest, covered, for 4-5 minutes. Stir in chopped fresh herbs before serving.

Step 5: Make the Air Fryer Green Beans

Toss green beans with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

Place in air fryer basket and cook at 375°F for 7-8 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Step 6: Plate and Serve

Place a portion of lemon herb rice on a plate, top with chicken thighs, and add a serving of green beans. Garnish with lemon slices, if desired.