Name: Greek Chicken Chops
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4 lb chicken (cut into chops); 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon sea salt; lemon wedges; chili flakes

Have you ever tried Greek chicken chops? Imagine delicious cuts of whole chicken marinated in olive oil, paprika, garlic, and herbs such as oregano and thyme. The result is a ton of flavor. Pair these chicken chops with whipped feta cheese, marinated olives, and roasted gigantes beans for a healthy and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.

If you love these Greek Chicken Chops, you will also love this Za’atar Lemon Chicken Orzo, Chicken Meatballs With Lemon Rice or Classic Greek Lemon Chicken And Potatoes!

Greek chicken chops in a roasting pan with lemon wedges and fresh basil leaves.

A chicken cut into chicken chops on a black cutting board.

What are chicken chops?

In Greece, it is common for butchers to break down a whole chicken into pieces, such as the leg, thigh, and breast. These pieces are then cut into smaller portions using a heavy cleaver, resulting in what is known as “kotopoulo paidakia” or chicken chops. Cooking these chops with the bone results in more flavorful meat.

Why this recipe sings

Our Greek chicken chops are full of flavor with minimal effort.

A simple marinade of smoked paprika, dried oregano and thyme, garlic powder, extra virgin olive oil, and sea salt is applied to the chops. The chicken chops will have the most flavor the longer they marinate. However, cooking them immediately or after 30 minutes will produce good results.

This marinade recipe can be used for chicken wings, drumsticks, and even a whole chicken.

Here is what you need

Close up of a plate with a whole chicken cut in chops on a cutting board.

A whole chicken cut into chops. You can get a whole chicken, break it down, and cut it in chops yourself, or ask your butcher to do it for you (that’s what I do).

A bowl with dried oregano, thyme, sea salt, garlic powder and smoked paprika.

The seasoning is simple. Dried oregano, dried thyme, garlic powder, smoked paprika and sea salt.
Extra virgin olive oil.
Lemon wedges and chili flakes for serving,

How to make Greek chicken chops

Detailed measurements and instructions can be found on the recipe card at the bottom of the page.

Add all the marinade ingredients into a bowl, mix well, and add the chicken pieces. Rub the marinade all over the chicken.

Marinate for 30 minutes up to 24 hours refrigerated.

Preheat the oven to 220°C / 425°F.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Roast chicken chops for 45 minutes. Halfway turn chops to the other side. Use the broiler to develop nice char on the chops for the last minutes of cooking.

Always make sure the chicken is fully cooked and juices run clear.

Serve with a sprinkle of chili flakes (optional) and plenty of lemon wedges around the table.

What to serve with Greek chicken chops

Greek chicken chops are a flavorful and hearty meal; several sides pair beautifully with them. Some great options include a simple Greek salad with feta cheese and olives, roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers, or a side of tzatziki sauce for dipping. You could also serve the chicken chops with fried crispy or roasted lemon potatoes and pita bread for a filling and satisfying meal.