Mediterranean Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe
This Mediterranean Chicken Thighs recipe features juicy, bone-in and skin-on chicken thighs marinated in a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and traditional Mediterranean herbs. The chicken is baked to perfection, achieving crispy, golden skin and tender, flavorful meat, making for a delightful and easy-to-prepare main dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (About 2 lbs.)
Marinade
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (to taste)
Instructions
- Make the marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until ingredients are fully incorporated to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade and toss to coat each piece thoroughly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours to enhance the flavor.
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and allow it to fully preheat for even cooking.
- Prepare to bake: Arrange the marinated chicken thighs skin side up in a baking dish or on a sheet pan. Pour any remaining marinade evenly over the chicken pieces.
- Bake the chicken: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken skin is crispy and golden brown.
- Rest and garnish: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add color and freshness.
- Optional additions: To make a complete one-pan meal, add vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the baking dish before cooking.
- Serving suggestions: Serve the Mediterranean chicken thighs with rice, quinoa, or a fresh side salad to round out the meal.
- Alternative cooking method: For a smoky flavor, grill the chicken thighs instead of baking as desired.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken longer (up to 2 hours) for a more intense flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Adding vegetables to the baking dish creates a complete, easy one-pan meal.
- Letting the chicken rest after baking helps retain juices for moist meat.
- Grilling is a great alternative method for a smoky variation.
Keywords: Mediterranean chicken, baked chicken thighs, lemon garlic chicken, herb marinated chicken, easy chicken recipe, one pan meal
