Greek Sheet-Pan Lemon Roasted Chicken and Potatoes
This classic Greek dish combines juicy chicken, crispy potatoes, and aromatic herbs for a delicious one-pan meal. Here’s how to make this flavorful recipe with tips for selecting the best ingredients.
Table of Contents
Authentic Greek Sheet-Pan Lemon Roasted Chicken and Potatoes
You’ll travel to a Greek family table with this mouthwatering Greek sheet-pan lemon roasted chicken and potatoes recipe. This classic Mediterranean dish combines succulent chicken, crispy Greek roasted potatoes, and aromatic herbs for a delicious one-pan Greek meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend family dinners.
Why Greek Oregano?
One of the key ingredients that gives this dish its authentic flavor is Greek oregano. Unlike its milder Italian counterpart, Greek oregano has a more robust, earthy taste thanks to its high essential oil content. Greek oregano perfectly complements the lemon and garlic in this recipe. The dried herb infuses the chicken and potatoes with its distinctive aroma, transporting you to a Greek taverna with every bite.
Selecting the Perfect Ingredients for Lemon Roasted Chicken and Potatoes
Choosing the Best Chicken
For the juiciest, most flavorful results, opt for high-quality chicken pieces. Free-range or organic chicken often yields the best taste and texture. Look for plump pieces with intact skin and no bruising. The skin will crisp up beautifully during roasting, adding another layer of deliciousness to this Greek sheet-pan chicken dish.
The Secret to Crispy Greek Potatoes
The potatoes in this recipe are a star in their own right. For the crispiest, most flavorful Greek roasted potatoes, choose a variety that’s well-suited for roasting. Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work exceptionally well, developing a golden crust while remaining fluffy on the inside. Cut them into evenly sized pieces to ensure consistent cooking.
How to Select the Perfect Chicken
Choose fresh chicken that feels cold and has a pinkish color. Look for plump pieces with intact skin and no bruising. For the best flavor and texture, opt for free-range or organic chicken when possible.
How to Choose Juicy Lemons
Select lemons that feel heavy for their size and have thin, smooth skins. These characteristics indicate juicier fruit. Roll lemons on the counter before juicing to maximize yield.
Basting Technique
Baste the chicken and potatoes every 20-30 minutes during roasting. Use a large spoon or baster to scoop up pan juices and drizzle over the meat and potatoes. This keeps the chicken moist and enhances flavor.
Lemon Roasted Chicken and Potatoes: Mastering the One-Pan Technique
This easy Greek dinner truly shines in its simplicity. By cooking everything together on one sheet pan, you not only save on cleanup but also allow the flavors to meld beautifully. The chicken releases its juices as it cooks, flavoring the potatoes and creating a delicious sauce at the bottom of the pan.
Tips for the Perfect Mediterranean Chicken Recipe
To elevate your Greek sheet-pan lemon roasted chicken to restaurant-quality levels, follow these pro tips:
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before cooking to enhance flavor.
- Don’t skimp on the lemon juice – it’s key to achieving that bright, authentic Greek taste.
- Baste the chicken and potatoes every 20-30 minutes during roasting to keep everything moist and flavorful.
- For extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
Greek Sheet-Pan Lemon Roasted Chicken: Prep and Cook Times
Planning to make this delicious Greek sheet-pan lemon roasted chicken? Here’s what you need to know about timing:
Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
Get your ingredients ready and your oven preheated in just about 20 minutes.
Cook Time: 60-75 minutes
Your kitchen will be filled with mouthwatering aromas as this one-pan Greek meal roasts to perfection.
Total Time: 75-95 minutes
From start to finish, you’ll have a restaurant-quality Greek dinner on the table in about an hour and a half.
Pro Tip: For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken for 30 minutes before cooking. This optional step will increase your total time but can elevate the taste of your Greek lemon roasted chicken to new heights.
Remember to baste your chicken and potatoes every 20-30 minutes during cooking for the juiciest, most flavorful results. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking time, this Greek sheet-pan chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners.
Serving Suggestions for Lemon Roasted Chicken and Potatoes
This versatile Greek sheet-pan chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it with a classic Greek salad, some tzatziki for dipping, or a side of sautéed greens. A chunk of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious pan juices.
Whether you’re craving a taste of the Mediterranean or simply looking for an easy, flavorful weeknight dinner, this Greek sheet-pan lemon roasted chicken and potatoes recipe is sure to become a family favorite. With its irresistible combination of crispy potatoes, juicy chicken, and zesty lemon-herb flavors, it’s a one-pan Greek meal that will transport you to the sunny shores of Greece with every bite.
Jump to VideoBest Greek Wines to Pair with Lemon Roasted Chicken and Potatoes
Looking for the perfect wine to complement your Greek sheet-pan lemon roasted chicken? We’ve got you covered with these authentic Greek wine pairings that will elevate even this everyday lemon roasted chicken dish to a Mediterranean feast.
Assyrtiko: The Classic Greek White Wine Pairing
Assyrtiko is the star white grape of Greece, particularly from the island of Santorini. Its high acidity and mineral notes make it an ideal match for lemon roasted chicken.
Why Assyrtiko works:
Crisp acidity complements the lemon flavors
Mineral notes enhance the herb seasonings
Saline quality pairs well with roasted poultry
Top Assyrtiko producers:
Estate Argyros (Santorini)
Domaine Sigalas (Santorini)
Kir-Yianni (Amyndeon)
Moschofilero: An Aromatic Greek White
Moschofilero is an aromatic white grape that pairs beautifully with Mediterranean chicken dishes.
Moschofilero characteristics:
Vibrant acidity
Citrus and tropical fruit notes
Floral aromas
Roditis: A Versatile Greek White
Roditis is a Greek white grape that produces wines with good acidity and subtle fruit flavors.
Why Roditis works:
Medium-bodied, complementing the chicken without overpowering
Citrus notes enhance the lemon flavors
Mineral qualities pair well with herbs and roasted potatoes
Notable Roditis producers:
Rouvalis Winery (Asprolithi)
Tetramythos Winery
Malagousia: An Aromatic Greek White Alternative
Malagousia is known for its citrus and peach characteristics, making it a great match for lemon chicken.
Malagousia flavor profile:
Citrus and peach notes
Floral aromas
Medium body
Savatiano: Attica’s Star White Grape
Savatiano, native to the Attica region, produces wines with subtle fruit aromas and a balanced palate.
Why Savatiano pairs well:
Subtle fruit flavors complement the chicken
Well-structured with depth
Herbaceous undertones match the seasoning
Recommended Savatiano producers:
Papagiannakos Winery
Kokotos Estate
Mylonas Winery
Serving Tips for Greek Wines with Lemon Roasted Chicken and Potatoes
Serve white wines chilled, but not too cold (8-10°C / 46-50°F).
Allow the wine to warm slightly in the glass to release its full aromas.
Use proper wine glasses to enhance the tasting experience.
By pairing your Greek sheet-pan lemon roasted chicken with one of these authentic Greek wines, you’ll create a truly Mediterranean dining experience. The crisp acidity and subtle flavors of these wines will complement the lemony, herbal notes of the dish, making for a perfect meal.
Serving Tips for Greek Wines with Lemon Roasted Chicken and Potatoes
Serve white wines chilled, but not too cold (8-10°C / 46-50°F).
Allow the wine to warm slightly in the glass to release its full aromas.
Use proper wine glasses to enhance the tasting experience.
By pairing your Greek sheet-pan lemon roasted chicken with one of these authentic Greek wines, you’ll create a truly Mediterranean dining experience. The crisp acidity and subtle flavors of these wines will complement the lemony, herbal notes of the dish, making for a perfect meal.
Greek Sheet-Pan Lemon Roasted Chicken and Potatoes
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken about 3-4 pounds / 1 ½ - 2 kilos, cut into serving pieces
- 2 pounds roasting potatoes peeled and quartered
- 1/3 cup extra virgin Greek olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice about 2 lemons
- 1 tablespoon dried Greek oregano
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- Greek sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth water or white wine
- Optional: fresh oregano or parsley for garnish
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
-
Prepare marinade: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper.
-
Marinate chicken: Place chicken pieces in a large roasting pan and pour half the marinade over, coating evenly.
-
Add potatoes: Arrange quartered potatoes around chicken and drizzle with remaining marinade.
-
Add broth: Pour chicken broth or water into the pan.
-
Roast: Place pan in preheated oven for 60-75 minutes, until chicken is golden brown and potatoes are tender. Baste every 20-30 minutes with pan juices.
-
Finish and serve: Remove from oven, let rest for a few minutes, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Recipe Video
