Craving a delicious and healthy dinner that's also quick and easy to make? Look no further! This Greek Chicken and Potatoes recipe is a fantastic option for busy weeknights. It's packed with fresh flavors, tender chicken, and perfectly roasted potatoes – a complete meal in one pan! This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all levels, from beginners to experienced cooks. Get ready to enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean in your own kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 lbs small red potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 large red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your chicken and potatoes cook evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown color.
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Prepare the vegetables: In a large bowl, toss the potatoes and red onion wedges with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure the potatoes are evenly coated for consistent cooking.
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Marinate the chicken: In a separate bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the remaining olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, thyme, and garlic powder. Mix well to ensure each piece is coated in the flavorful marinade. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb all those delicious Greek flavors. This step is key to tender and flavorful chicken.
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Combine and roast: Spread the seasoned potatoes and onions in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Arrange the marinated chicken pieces on top of the vegetables.
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Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender. You can check the chicken's doneness by inserting a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C). If the potatoes are browning too quickly, you can loosely tent the pan with foil.
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Garnish and serve: Once cooked, garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. This delicious dish is perfect on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad for a complete and healthy meal.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Greek Chicken and Potatoes:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure the potatoes and chicken are in a single layer to promote even cooking and browning. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
- Use small potatoes: Smaller potatoes cook more quickly and evenly than larger ones.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of herbs and spices to your preference. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick!
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to your liking.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Chicken and Potatoes: Increase the amount of lemon zest and juice, and add fresh rosemary or dill.
- Spicy Greek Chicken and Potatoes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade.
- Greek Chicken and Potatoes with Feta: Crumble some feta cheese over the dish during the last 5 minutes of baking for a salty and tangy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
This Greek Chicken and Potatoes recipe is a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for a healthy and delicious weeknight dinner. It’s a great way to incorporate more healthy meals into your diet, and the ease of preparation makes it an ideal quick dinner idea for busy individuals and families. Enjoy!