Easy Baked Mediterranean Chicken Thighs
Baked Mediterranean chicken thighs have become a staple in my kitchen, especially when I need a quick yet satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy. This dish is not only incredibly easy to prepare, but it also bursts with vibrant Mediterranean flavors that transport you to sun-soaked coasts with every bite. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, these hearty chicken thighs are one-pot wonders that keep everything simple yet delicious.
Why you’ll love this dish
First and foremost, this recipe beautifully balances convenience and flavor. Using just one pot means fewer dishes to wash, which is a win for busy nights! The ingredients are largely pantry staples, making this recipe both budget-friendly and easy to whip up without a mad dash to the grocery store. Plus, the rich combination of spices adds an authentic touch, ensuring your meal feels special even on a regular day.
“This dish was a game changer! Easy to make, packed with flavor, and my kids loved it!” — A happy home cook
How this recipe comes together
The process of making Baked Mediterranean Chicken Thighs is straightforward, inviting cooks of all experience levels to give it a try. Start by creating a simple marinade that infuses the chicken with flavor. Then, arrange the chicken in your baking dish, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen. In just three easy steps, your dinner is ready to be served, leaving you with time to unwind, perhaps with a glass of wine!
What you’ll need
- 8 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin and excess fat removed)
- 1 onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 ripe tomato (skin removed and grated)
- 2-3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 lemon (juice)
- 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary (optional)
- 5 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 teaspoon of oregano
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- ½ teaspoon of white pepper
- Salt (to taste)
Feel free to substitute the chicken with skinless, boneless thighs for a quicker cooking time or replace fresh rosemary with dried herbs if that’s what you have on hand!
Step-by-step instructions
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Make the marinade: In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, cumin, onion powder, white pepper, and salt to taste. Once combined, add the sliced onion and grated tomato, mixing until well coated.
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Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken thighs in the marinade, ensuring they’re thoroughly coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes, or longer for deeper flavor.
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Bake: Arrange the marinated chicken in a baking dish, pouring the remaining marinade over the top. If using, add the fresh rosemary. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35-45 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The skin will be golden and crispy.
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Serve: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before diving in.
Best ways to enjoy it
Baked Mediterranean Chicken Thighs shine when served alongside a fresh Greek salad or roasted vegetables. You could also pair it with fluffy couscous or crispy pita chips for a satisfying meal. For a touch of indulgence, drizzle some extra virgin olive oil over the plated dish and finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Storage and reheating tips
To store your leftovers, allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat leftovers in the oven or microwave, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before enjoying. For longer storage, this dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to divide into portions, making it easy to defrost!
Helpful cooking tips
For a truly delectable dish, try letting the chicken marinate for a few hours or even overnight to maximize flavor. Additionally, consider searing the chicken in a hot skillet for a few minutes before baking—this helps achieve that irresistible crispy skin. Lastly, don’t skip the fresh herbs; they elevate the dish and add a garden-fresh quality that complements the rich flavors beautifully.
Creative twists
If you’re looking to shake things up, swap the cumin and smoked paprika for some curry powder for a unique twist. Experiment with different vegetables—zucchini or bell peppers would add a lovely color and flavor to the dish. You could also turn this into a Mediterranean bowl with quinoa and a dollop of yogurt for creamy goodness.
Your questions answered
How long does this recipe take to prepare?
Prep time is about 15 minutes, and you’ll need 35-45 minutes for baking. Total time is roughly 1 hour!
Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Absolutely! Just reduce the baking time to about 25-30 minutes.
What should I do with leftovers?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or in the freezer for 3 months. Reheat as directed above.
Enjoy the simplicity and bold flavors of this Baked Mediterranean Chicken Thighs recipe that even the pickiest eaters will appreciate. Happy cooking!
Baked Mediterranean Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
For the marinade
- 2-3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 lemon juice
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon white pepper
For the chicken and vegetables
- 8 pieces chicken thighs (bone-in, skin and excess fat removed)
- 1 medium onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 ripe tomato (skin removed and grated)
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (optional) Or you can use dried herbs if available.
Instructions
Marinade Preparation
- In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, cumin, onion powder, white pepper, and salt to taste. Once combined, add the sliced onion and grated tomato, mixing until well coated.
Chicken Preparation
- Place the chicken thighs in the marinade, ensuring they’re thoroughly coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes, or longer for deeper flavor.
Baking
- Arrange the marinated chicken in a baking dish, pouring the remaining marinade over the top. If using, add the fresh rosemary.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35-45 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the skin will be golden and crispy.
Serving
- Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
