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Flavorful Lemon-Herb Grilled Chicken Thighs Greek Style

lemon-herb grilled chicken thighs - featured image

This Greek-style grilled chicken thigh recipe features a bright lemon-herb marinade and crispy skin, perfect for easy summer BBQs or weeknight meals. Juicy, tender, and full of Mediterranean flavors, it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with fresh salads and light sides.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds / 900g)
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil (80 ml)
  • Juice of 2 fresh lemons (about 1/3 cup / 80 ml)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano (or fresh oregano)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, rosemary, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Place chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or airtight container. Pour marinade over chicken, seal tightly, and massage to coat evenly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight.
  3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F or 190°C). If using charcoal, wait until coals are glowing and covered with white ash.
  4. Place chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill grates. Cook undisturbed for 7-8 minutes until skin crisps and chars nicely.
  5. Flip chicken and grill the other side for 7-10 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Watch for flare-ups and move chicken as needed to prevent burning.
  6. Transfer chicken to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Marinate chicken for at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor. Pat chicken dry before marinating for crispier skin. Avoid flipping more than once to keep skin intact. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to 165°F (74°C). If no grill is available, bake at 425°F (220°C) on a wire rack for 25-30 minutes until skin is crispy.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken, lemon herb chicken, Greek chicken thighs, summer BBQ, easy grilled chicken, Mediterranean chicken, lemon chicken marinade