Are you ready to transport your taste buds to the majestic Mount Olympus? This recipe brings you a taste of ancient Greece with a vibrant and flavorful Lemon Chicken and Potatoes dish, fit for the gods and goddesses themselves! This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful weekend meal. It's healthy, delicious, and surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner cooks. Let's embark on this culinary journey together!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 6-8)
- 2 lbs small red potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 large lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prep the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and cut the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Toss them in a large bowl with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a large baking sheet.
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Marinate the Chicken: In a separate bowl, combine the remaining olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat them evenly in the marinade. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes (longer is even better!).
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Roast Together: Arrange the marinated chicken thighs on top of the potatoes on the baking sheet. Make sure the chicken isn't overcrowded; you may need two baking sheets.
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Bake to Perfection: Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C) and the potatoes are tender and slightly browned.
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Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and garnish the delicious dish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy this simple yet heavenly meal!
Cooking Tips for a Divine Dish:
- Bone-in vs. Boneless: Bone-in chicken thighs are recommended for this recipe as they stay more juicy during cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure proper air circulation for even cooking. Use two baking sheets if needed.
- Adjust seasoning: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your liking. A dash of rosemary or a pinch of smoked paprika would complement the dish beautifully.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a simple Greek salad for a truly authentic experience.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Include other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or onions for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with other Mediterranean herbs like dill or mint.
- Citrus twist: Substitute the lemon with oranges or a combination of both for a unique citrusy flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 400-450 Protein: 30-35g Fat: 20-25g Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes recipe is a simple, healthy, and flavorful addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes. It's a perfect example of how easy homemade cooking can be, delivering a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss. Enjoy this taste of Olympus!