Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes! Both chicken breasts and thighs work well. Thighs are more forgiving and juicier, while breasts are leaner and cook faster. Just be sure not to overcook breasts, as they can dry out more easily.

Is Mediterranean lemon chicken healthy?

Absolutely. This dish uses whole ingredients , lean protein, and heart-healthy olive oil .

What’s the best way to marinate chicken for Mediterranean dishes?

For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of lemon juice , olive oil , garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes

Can I freeze Mediterranean lemon chicken?

Yes. You can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking or store leftovers after cooking. For best results, use airtight containers or freezer bags. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What should I serve with lemon chicken?

Some delicious side dishes include: Roasted potatoes Couscous or quinoa Greek salad Grilled vegetables or cauliflower rice for low-carb options

No, Mediterranean Lemon Chicken is not inherently spicy. It’s more zesty and herbaceous . You can always add a pinch of chili flakes if you like a bit of heat.

Mediterranean Lemon Chicken

Name: Mediterranean Lemon Chicken
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs Chicken (Thighs or Breasts)¼ cup Fresh lemon juice1 tablespoon Lemon zest3 tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil3–4 cloves Garlic, minced1 teaspoon Dried oregano½ teaspoon PaprikaSalt and black pepper to tasteOptional Flavor Boosters: Olives, capers, artichoke hearts, feta cheese, or cherry tomatoes.

Description

Master the art of Mediterranean flavor with this juicy Lemon Garlic Chicken recipe. Featuring a vibrant marinade of fresh lemon zest, extra virgin olive oil, and aromatic herbs, this versatile dish is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or healthy meal prepping. Whether you prefer it skillet-seared, oven-baked, or grilled, this Mediterranean chicken recipe delivers a protein-packed meal that is both keto-friendly and delicious.

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 lbs Chicken (Thighs or Breasts)
¼ cup Fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon Lemon zest
3 tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil
3–4 cloves Garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Dried oregano
½ teaspoon Paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Flavor Boosters: Olives, capers, artichoke hearts, feta cheese, or cherry tomatoes.

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the lemon juice, zest, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken in a large bowl or resealable bag and pour the marinade over it. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (ideally 2–4 hours) to tenderize and infuse flavor.
Choose Your Cooking Method:
Skillet: Heat oil over medium-high heat. Cook 5–7 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
Oven-Baked: Roast in a dish at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes.
Grilled: Grill over medium heat for 6–8 minutes per side.
Check Temp & Rest: Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.

Notes

Regional Twists: Add za’atar for an Israeli flair or preserved lemons and green olives for a Moroccan-style dish.
Meal Prep: You can freeze the chicken in the marinade for up to 3 months.
Dietary Swaps: For a Dairy-Free version, simply omit the optional feta cheese.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Skillet / Oven-Baked / Grilled
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken (approx 6oz)
Calories: 285 kcal
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 450mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: Mediterranean Lemon Chicken, Lemon Garlic Chicken Recipe, Healthy Chicken Marinade, Mediterranean Diet Recipes, One-Pan Chicken Dinner