Greek Chicken and Potatoes Recipe

This Greek-inspired chicken and potato bake is infused with bright lemon, garlic, and aromatic herbs. The chicken roasts until juicy with golden crispy skin, while the potatoes soak up all the delicious flavors. Finished with fresh parsley and optional olives, it’s a hearty Mediterranean dish perfect for weeknights or family gatherings.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken and Potatoes

• 3 lb chicken pieces, bone-in and skin-on (such as 2 small breasts and 3 legs)
• Salt, to taste
• 4 gold potatoes (about 2 lb), scrubbed and cut into thin wedges
• 1 medium yellow onion, halved and sliced
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 6–12 pitted Kalamata olives (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Lemon-Garlic Sauce (also works as a marinade)

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• ¼ cup lemon juice
• 12 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 ½ tbsp dried rosemary or dried oregano
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg

Optional Sides

• Greek salad
• Tzatziki sauce
• Pita bread

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the Chicken
   Pat chicken pieces dry and season generously with salt. Be sure to lift the skins and apply salt underneath for maximum flavor.
3. Prepare the Pan
   Arrange potato wedges and onions in the bottom of a large baking dish. Season with salt and black pepper. Place chicken pieces on top.
4. Make the Sauce
   In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary (or oregano), and nutmeg. Pour evenly over the chicken and potatoes.
5. Add Lemon & Broth
   Place lemon slices on top of the chicken and potatoes. Carefully pour the chicken broth into the pan from the side, avoiding pouring directly over the chicken.
6. Bake
   Roast uncovered for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the potatoes are tender.
   • If potatoes need more time, remove cooked chicken breasts to prevent drying out, raise oven temperature to 425°F (220°C), and cook potatoes for an additional 15–20 minutes.
   • For extra golden, crispy chicken skin, place the pan under the broiler for a few minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
7. Finish & Serve
   Remove from the oven, scatter Kalamata olives on top if using, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm with optional Greek salad, tzatziki, and pita bread.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Mediterranean flavors with a bright lemon-garlic kick
• Juicy, tender chicken with perfectly crispy skin
• Potatoes that soak up all the savory pan juices
• A one-pan recipe for easy prep and cleanup
• Flexible enough for weeknights or entertaining guests

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Tips

• Use a mix of chicken pieces for the best flavor (legs and thighs stay juicier than breasts).
• Cut potatoes into even wedges to ensure they cook evenly.
• Let chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking to keep juices locked in.
• Don’t skip the broth—it keeps the dish moist and flavorful.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Herbs: Swap rosemary for thyme, oregano, or a mix of Mediterranean herbs.
• Vegetables: Add carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers to the pan.
• Citrus: Use a mix of lemon and orange for a slightly sweeter flavor.
• Spices: Add smoked paprika or chili flakes for a little heat.
• Protein Swap: Try bone-in turkey pieces for a festive variation.

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FAQs

Can I marinate the chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken in the lemon-garlic sauce for up to 12 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor.

Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, but reduce the cooking time to prevent overcooking. Bone-in chicken develops better flavor.

What if I don’t have chicken broth?
Water with a bouillon cube or vegetable broth works well.

How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Serve with a crisp Greek salad and tzatziki for a traditional touch.
• Warm pita or crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful juices.
• Pair with roasted vegetables or a simple grain like rice or bulgur.
• This dish also pairs beautifully with a glass of chilled white wine.