Lemon-Garlic Roasted Greek Chicken is a delightful and flavorful dish that pays homage to the rich culinary traditions of Greece.

This recipe dates back centuries and has been passed down through generations of Greek households, showcasing the perfect blend of Mediterranean flavors that captivate the taste buds.

The recipe’s history can be traced back to ancient times when lemons and garlic were highly prized ingredients in Greek cuisine for their aromatic and health-enhancing properties.

Over the years, the dish has evolved, with various regions adding their own unique touches to the marinade, resulting in a harmonious symphony of tangy and savory notes.

In Greek culture, roasting chicken was considered a celebratory way of cooking during special occasions and family gatherings.

To fully infuse the chicken with the lemon-garlic marinade, allow it to marinate overnight. Serve with traditional Greek sides like roasted vegetables, a crisp Greek salad, or homemade tzatziki sauce for an authentic experience. 

This dish is a healthy choice, as it provides a good source of lean protein, vitamin C from lemons, and antioxidants from garlic.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for future meals.

Greek-American celebrity chef Cat Cora is a well-known fan of Lemon-Garlic Roasted Greek Chicken, often praising its simplicity and robust flavors that pay homage to her Greek heritage.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (about 4 pounds)
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 lemons, juiced and zested
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, dried oregano, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
2. Clean the chicken thoroughly and pat it dry with paper towels.
3. Place the chicken in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
4. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure to coat it evenly.
5. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or, preferably, overnight to let the flavors infuse the chicken.
6. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
7. Take the chicken out of the marinade and place it in a roasting pan, breast side up.
8. You can also place some halved lemons and garlic cloves inside the cavity for extra flavor.
9. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
10. Or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
11. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before carving.
12. Serve the Lemon-Garlic Roasted Greek Chicken with your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables, Greek salad, or rice pilaf.

Enjoy this flavorful and aromatic Greek-inspired chicken dish with your friends and family!

Note: Remember to always follow food safety guidelines when handling raw chicken and wash your hands and utensils thoroughly after handling it.