Mediterranean Baked Chicken Thighs

Chicken thighs seasoned with olives, tomatoes, and herbs.

Mediterranean Baked Chicken Thighs:

A Flavorful, One-Pan Delight.

This dish combines juicy, golden-brown chicken thighs with the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean—briny Kalamata olives, sweet roasted cherry tomatoes, and fragrant herbs. The result? A simple yet elegant meal that’s bursting with taste and perfect for a stress-free dinner.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1 red onion, sliced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon

Instructions:

1. Prepare the chicken:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Drizzle with 1 tbsp of olive oil to coat the chicken evenly.
2. Arrange the ingredients in a baking dish:
   • Place the seasoned chicken thighs in a baking dish or on a sheet pan.
   • Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and sliced red onion around the chicken thighs.
3. Roast the chicken:
   • Drizzle the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil over the vegetables and chicken.
   • Roast in the preheated oven for about 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken thighs are golden and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C) and the vegetables are softened and slightly caramelized.
4. Finish with fresh lemon and parsley:
   • Remove the dish from the oven and squeeze the lemon juice over the chicken and vegetables.
   • Sprinkle the chopped parsley and lemon zest on top for a fresh burst of flavor.
5. Serve:
   • Serve the Mediterranean Baked Chicken Thighs with couscous, rice, or a simple salad for a full meal.

Tips for the Best Mediterranean Baked Chicken Thighs:

• Crispy Skin Secret: For extra-crispy chicken skin, sear the thighs in a hot pan for 3-4 minutes before transferring them to the oven.
• Juicier Chicken: Bone-in, skin-on thighs retain moisture better, but boneless thighs can also work (adjust cooking time to 25-30 minutes).
• Vegetable Variations: Add sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or artichoke hearts for more Mediterranean flavors.
• Serving Ideas: Serve with warm pita bread, couscous, quinoa, or a fresh Greek salad for a complete meal.
• Extra Tang: A dollop of tzatziki or a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving adds a delicious finishing touch.

Enjoy your meal!