Baked Mediterranean Chicken Thighs

Baked Mediterranean Chicken Thighs are a savory, juicy, and vibrant dish infused with classic Mediterranean flavors like garlic, lemon, oregano, and olive oil. Tender, bone-in chicken thighs are oven-roasted to perfection alongside tomatoes, olives, and red onions, making this a flavorful one-pan meal that’s both healthy and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a delicious and easy way to bring bold Mediterranean flavor to your dinner table. It’s perfect for weeknights because it requires minimal prep, yet it feels special enough for a dinner party. Packed with heart-healthy fats, lean protein, and low-carb vegetables, it’s also naturally keto-friendly and gluten-free. Plus, the oven does most of the work!

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• Cherry tomatoes
• Red onion
• Kalamata olives
• Garlic cloves
• Fresh lemon juice
• Olive oil
• Dried oregano
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat the chicken thighs dry and season them generously with salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika.
3. In a large oven-safe baking dish or cast-iron skillet, arrange the chicken thighs skin-side up.
4. Add halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, garlic cloves, and Kalamata olives around the chicken.
5. Drizzle everything with olive oil and fresh lemon juice.
6. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crispy.
7. Optional: Broil for an additional 2–3 minutes for extra crispiness.
8. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Use boneless thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used to reduce cook time. Bake for about 25–30 minutes.
• Add vegetables: Try adding zucchini, bell peppers, or artichoke hearts for extra Mediterranean flair.
• Try different herbs: Swap oregano for thyme or rosemary for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Use chicken breasts: Substitute thighs with bone-in chicken breasts, adjusting cooking time as needed.
• Add feta: Crumble some feta cheese over the dish just before serving for a salty, creamy kick.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals. To maintain the crispiness of the chicken skin, avoid reheating in the microwave if possible. This dish also freezes well—store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep everything ahead and store it in the fridge. Bake just before serving for best results.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but keep in mind that breasts may cook faster and can dry out more easily. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

Do I need to marinate the chicken?

It’s not required, but you can marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and spices for 1–2 hours for even deeper flavor.

What kind of olives should I use?

Kalamata olives are traditional, but you can use green olives or a mixed variety depending on your preference.

Is this recipe low-carb?

Yes, this recipe is naturally low in carbs and suitable for keto and paleo diets.

Can I cook this in a cast iron skillet?

Absolutely. A cast iron skillet works great and can go from stovetop to oven for added versatility.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, the base recipe is already dairy-free. Just skip any optional additions like feta.

What can I serve with Mediterranean chicken thighs?

Serve with cauliflower rice, a green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete low-carb meal.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, the chicken freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

How do I keep the skin crispy?

Pat the chicken skin dry before baking, and broil for a few minutes at the end of cooking if needed.

Conclusion

Baked Mediterranean Chicken Thighs bring together the bold, fresh flavors of the Mediterranean in a simple and satisfying way. Perfect for busy nights or relaxed weekend dinners, this dish is full of vibrant ingredients that are as nutritious as they are delicious. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your meal rotation.

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