Looking to bring the sunshine of the Mediterranean right to your dinner table? This Greek Lemon-Butter Chicken with Smashed Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food with a zesty twist. Packed with rich flavors from garlic, lemon, butter, and fresh herbs, this dish pairs beautifully with crispy, golden smashed potatoes that are soft on the inside and crisp on the outside.
Whether you’re craving a simple weeknight dinner or planning a cozy dinner party, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal fuss. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make it a standout in your recipe collection.
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Toggle🏛️ The Inspiration Behind the Dish
Greek cuisine is a celebration of freshness, balance, and bold flavors. Think sun-drenched citrus, earthy herbs, and golden olive oil. Lemon-butter chicken is a classic Mediterranean favorite, and when paired with rustic smashed potatoes roasted in olive oil and garlic, the result is both comforting and elegant.
This dish embodies the Mediterranean way of eating—nutritious, vibrant, and deeply satisfying.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to recreate this delightful meal:
🍗 For the Chicken:
6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
2 tablespoons lemon zest
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh)
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
🥔 For the Smashed Potatoes:
1.5 lbs baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary or oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 2 cloves garlic (minced) for extra flavor
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
Start by combining olive oil, lemon juice, zest, garlic, oregano, thyme, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add the chicken thighs and coat thoroughly.
Tip: For best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the fridge.
2. Boil the Potatoes
While the chicken marinates, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the potatoes and cook until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain and let them cool slightly.
3. Smash the Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the cooked potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Use the bottom of a glass or fork to gently smash each potato until it’s about ½ inch thick.
Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with rosemary, garlic (if using), salt, and pepper.
4. Roast the Potatoes
Roast the smashed potatoes for 25–30 minutes, or until golden and crispy on the edges.
5. Cook the Chicken
In a large oven-safe skillet or cast iron pan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side down and cook until golden and crispy, about 5–7 minutes. Flip the chicken and add butter to the pan. Let it melt and spoon the butter over the chicken as it cooks.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Make the Lemon-Butter Pan Sauce
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet. Add a splash of chicken broth or more lemon juice to the pan to deglaze. Stir in a bit of extra butter if desired and reduce the sauce for a couple of minutes.
🍽️ How to Serve It
To serve, place the crispy smashed potatoes on a platter. Top with the juicy chicken thighs, and drizzle the lemon-butter sauce over everything.
Garnish with:
Chopped parsley or dill
Lemon wedges
Crumbled feta (optional but delicious!)
Pair with a fresh Greek salad, grilled vegetables, or a side of tzatziki for a full Mediterranean experience.
🔥 Cooking Tips for the Best Results
✅ Use Skin-On, Bone-In Chicken Thighs
They’re juicier and more flavorful than boneless cuts and hold up better in the oven.
✅ Marinate Overnight
If time allows, marinate the chicken overnight. The lemon and garlic flavors will infuse deeply into the meat.
✅ Smash with Care
Don’t over-smash the potatoes—you want texture, not mashed potatoes. A rustic, uneven look is perfect.
✅ Get Crispy Skin
Start by searing the chicken skin-side down in a hot skillet to crisp the skin before roasting.
🥗 Serving Suggestions & Sides
Want to build a beautiful Mediterranean table? Here are a few delicious sides to go with your main dish:
Greek Salad: Tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta.
Tzatziki: A cooling cucumber and yogurt dip that balances the richness of the chicken.
Warm Pita Bread: Great for soaking up extra lemon butter sauce.
Grilled Asparagus or Zucchini: Adds color and nutrients to your plate.
💪 Health Benefits of This Recipe
Greek cuisine isn’t just tasty—it’s also nutrient-rich. Here’s why this dish is a smart choice:
🍗 Chicken Thighs:
High in protein, supporting muscle growth and repair.
Contains B vitamins and zinc for immune health.
🥔 Potatoes:
Rich in potassium, fiber, and vitamin C.
Complex carbs for long-lasting energy.
🍋 Lemons & Garlic:
Lemon boosts vitamin C intake and adds antioxidants.
Garlic supports heart health and has anti-inflammatory benefits.
🧑🍳 Recipe Variations & Dietary Swaps
Want to customize the dish? Try these fun variations:
🥦 Low-Carb or Keto:
Swap smashed potatoes for cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles.
🧈 Dairy-Free:
Use olive oil only, or sub butter with vegan butter or coconut oil.
🌱 Vegetarian:
Replace chicken with tofu, tempeh, or cauliflower steaks marinated in the same lemon-herb mixture.
🐟 Pescatarian:
Swap chicken for white fish fillets like cod or halibut. Bake in the lemon-butter sauce for a flaky, light variation.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead?
Yes, but they may cook faster and can dry out. Reduce oven time and monitor the internal temp closely.
2. What’s the best potato type for smashing?
Baby Yukon Golds or red potatoes are ideal for their creamy centers and ability to crisp up well.
3. How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 30 minutes, but for best flavor, 4–12 hours is ideal.
4. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the lemon-butter sauce and reheat it gently before serving.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your butter and chicken stock are gluten-free.
6. Can I freeze the cooked chicken?
Yes. Store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the oven.
7. Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?
You can air fry the chicken and potatoes separately, though the sauce is best made on the stovetop.
8. How can I reduce the fat content?
Use skinless chicken thighs and less butter, or skip the pan sauce altogether.
9. What herbs work well in this recipe?
Oregano, rosemary, thyme, dill, and parsley all work beautifully. You can mix and match based on your taste.
10. Can I add vegetables to the sheet pan?
Yes! Cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini roast well alongside the potatoes.
💛 Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Greek Lemon-Butter Chicken & Smashed Potatoes is more than a meal—it’s an experience. It’s that perfect combination of comforting yet fresh, rich yet balanced. The bright citrus, buttery sauce, and herb-crusted crispy potatoes bring the flavors of Greece straight to your kitchen.
It’s easy to make, incredibly versatile, and guaranteed to impress your family or guests. Whether you’re new to Mediterranean cooking or a seasoned home chef, this dish deserves a permanent spot on your dinner rotation.
Ready to cook this unforgettable meal? Grab your lemons, fire up the oven, and get ready to savor the flavors of Greece tonight. 🇬🇷🍽️