If you’re on the hunt for a hearty meal that’s bursting with bright, fresh flavors but still manages to be incredibly comforting and easy to throw together, this Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes Recipe is going to be your new go-to. I absolutely love how the lemon and herbs marry with tender chicken and buttery potatoes, especially when it’s all slow-cooked to perfection. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll understand why my family goes crazy for it, and you’ll want to make it again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hands-Off Cooking: Just assemble and let the slow cooker work its magic while you relax or do other things.
- Bold, Zesty Flavors: The fresh lemon juice and zest paired with oregano and rosemary make every bite lively and bright.
- Juicy, Tender Chicken: Searing the skin first makes the chicken thighs crispy yet melts into tender, juicy meat.
- Perfect One-Pot Meal: Potatoes cook right in the slow cooker juices, soaking up all those delicious flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple, fresh ingredients come together beautifully. Each brings something special: aromatic herbs, bright citrus, and hearty potatoes make this Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes Recipe sing.
- Yellow Potatoes: I like them chunky so they hold up well and soak in that lemony flavor without turning mushy.
- Yellow Onion: Adds a subtle sweetness that balances the lemon.
- Garlic: Minced for maximum flavor infusion.
- Dried Oregano: Essential for that classic Greek flavor. Fresh would be great too if you have it.
- Dried Basil: Adds a gentle, sweet herb note.
- Dried Rosemary: I crush it lightly to release its earthy aroma.
- Salt and Pepper: Basic but vital to highlight all the flavors.
- Bone-in, Skin-on Chicken Thighs: The best for juicy meat and crispy skin when seared.
- Olive Oil: Use good quality for that rich taste.
- Chicken Broth: Builds a flavorful base for cooking the potatoes.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: The star of the show! Adds brightness and depth.
- Lemon Zest: Divided for layering lemon flavor without any bitterness.
- Fresh Parsley: For garnishing and adding a pop of color and freshness.
Variations
I love making this Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes Recipe my own depending on what I have on hand or what mood I’m in – you should totally feel free to customize it, too!
- Herb Swaps: Sometimes I swap out basil for thyme or add fresh dill for a fresher Greek twist—it’s all about what flavors you prefer.
- Chicken Cuts: Occasionally, I’ll use boneless thighs if I’m short on time, though bone-in really deepens the flavor and keeps the meat moist.
- Veggie Add-In: Throw in some baby carrots or green beans halfway through cooking for added color and nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: If you like heat, a pinch of red chili flakes stirred in with the herbs works wonders.
How to Make Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Layer Your Base with Potatoes and Onions
Start by arranging the chopped yellow potatoes and onion chunks in an even layer at the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth—this keeps everything moist and infuses the veggies with flavor. Then sprinkle half of your minced garlic and dried herb mix right over the potatoes and onions, along with salt and pepper. This layering helps build deep flavors from the ground up.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken for Crispy Skin and Juicy Meat
Here’s a trick I learned: patting the chicken skin dry before seasoning and searing it in olive oil really brings out that gorgeous golden crispness. Do this in batches over medium-high heat, about 4 minutes skin side down until nicely browned. Then transfer those beauties right on top of the potatoes in your slow cooker—the chicken juices start mingling with the veggies immediately.
Step 3: Add Lemon Juice, Herbs, and Final Touches
Pour the fresh lemon juice slowly and evenly over the chicken thighs—this ensures every bite has that zesty kick. Then sprinkle the remaining half of your garlic and herbs, plus 1 teaspoon of lemon zest for that extra brightness. Cover it up, set your slow cooker to low, and let it work its magic for about 5 ½ to 7 hours. The slow cook time melts the chicken so tender it almost falls apart while the potatoes absorb all those lovely lemony-herb juices.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
When you’re ready to serve, spoon some of the gorgeous juice over the chicken and potatoes, sprinkle with fresh parsley and the last teaspoon of lemon zest for that pop of freshness and color. I promise, the presentation looks inviting and tastes divine.
Pro Tips for Making Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
- Dry Chicken Skin Before Searing: This little step ensures your chicken skin crisps up nicely before slow cooking.
- Don’t Skip the Slow Cook Time: The low and slow method helps the potatoes soak up those rich, zesty flavors perfectly.
- Reserve Lemon Zest for Garnish: Adding some zest at the end keeps the flavor fresh and avoids any bitterness from overcooking.
- Use Bone-In Thighs for Moisture: They lock in juiciness much better than boneless.
How to Serve Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
I usually top the finished dish with plenty of freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest. The herbs add a bright pop of color and aroma that makes the dish feel fresh and inviting every time I serve it.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp Greek salad or steamed green beans for a light, balanced meal. Sometimes I whip up some warm pita bread on the side to sop up all the delicious lemony juices.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I like to transfer the chicken and potatoes to a rustic serving platter and scatter some olives and feta cheese around for that extra Mediterranean flair. It always sparks conversation and impresses guests!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I pop leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the fridge. The flavors deepen overnight, so leftovers actually taste even better the next day! Just be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating.
Freezing
I’ve frozen this recipe a couple of times with great success. Just thaw thoroughly in the fridge before reheating, and you’ll still get moist chicken and tender potatoes.
Reheating
To reheat, I prefer the oven over microwave to keep the chicken skin from turning soggy. About 20 minutes at 350°F covered with foil does the trick nicely.
FAQs
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Can I use boneless chicken instead of bone-in for this Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes Recipe?
Absolutely, you can swap in boneless chicken thighs if you prefer, but keep in mind the bone-in pieces tend to stay juicier and add extra flavor during cooking. If using boneless, reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid drying out.
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Is it okay to cook the lemon slices with the chicken and potatoes?
Personally, I avoid cooking lemon slices with the dish because the white pith can add a bitter flavor. Instead, use fresh lemon juice and zest as directed for a bright, clean lemon taste without bitterness.
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Can I make this Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes Recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for an Instant Pot! Sear the chicken first using the sauté function, then layer potatoes and onions before pressure cooking. Adjust the cooking time to about 15 minutes on high pressure, then natural release for best results.
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How do I keep the chicken skin crispy after slow cooking?
The slow cooker method makes the chicken incredibly tender but not crispy. That’s why I always sear the skin first—it gives a nice crust that stays appealing. For extra crispiness, finish the chicken under the broiler for a few minutes before serving.
Final Thoughts
When I first tried this Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes Recipe, it quickly became one of my favorites for easy dinners that don’t skimp on flavor. The balance of citrus, herbs, and tender chicken with buttery potatoes is just irresistible. I hope you give it a try soon—you’ll love how effortlessly impressive it is! It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like you’re dining in a seaside taverna without leaving your kitchen.
Print
Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 hours
- Total Time: 7 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Greek Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken and Potatoes is a flavorful and easy one-pot meal featuring tender, skin-on chicken thighs cooked slowly with golden yellow potatoes, aromatic herbs, fresh lemon juice, and garlic. The slow cooking method makes the chicken incredibly juicy while infusing the potatoes with zesty, herbaceous goodness, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Herbs
- 2 lbs yellow potatoes, cut into large chunks (about 2 inches)
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, cut into chunks
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Seasonings
- 2 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried rosemary, crushed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tsp lemon zest, divided (1 tsp for cooking, 1 tsp reserved for serving)
Meat and Liquids
- 3 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, trimmed of excess skin
- 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3 1/2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Place the potatoes and onion in an even layer in the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth. Sprinkle with half the minced garlic, half the oregano, half the basil, and half the crushed rosemary. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Pat dry the skin side of half the chicken thighs with paper towels, then season both sides with salt and pepper. Sear the chicken, skin side down, until golden brown and crisp, about 4 minutes. Transfer the seared chicken thighs skin side up over the potatoes in the slow cooker. Repeat this searing process with the remaining chicken thighs.
- Add Lemon and Remaining Seasonings: Slowly and evenly pour the fresh lemon juice over the chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Sprinkle the remaining garlic, oregano, rosemary, and basil over the top. Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest over the chicken, reserving the other teaspoon in the refrigerator for serving.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low heat for 5 1/2 to 7 hours until the chicken is tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
- Serve: Serve the chicken and potatoes warm, spooning some of the flavorful slow cooker juices over each serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and the reserved 1 teaspoon of lemon zest for a bright finishing touch.
Notes
- Do not cook lemon slices with the chicken and potatoes as the white pith can impart a bitter flavor; use lemon zest and juice for a fresher taste instead.
- For best results, trim excess skin but keep skin-on for texture and flavor during searing and slow cooking.
- If your slow cooker runs hot, check the dish around the 5-hour mark to avoid overcooking.
- Serve with a side salad or crusty bread to complete the meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
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