Craving a burst of flavor that’s both healthy and easy? These Mediterranean Chicken Thighs are your answer. They’re quick enough for a weeknight but taste special enough for guests, packed with delicious herbs and spices.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless are easiest, but bone-in, skin-on works too (just add a few minutes to cook time).
- Lemon: Fresh is best! Lime can work in a pinch.
- Garlic: Fresh cloves offer the best punch. Garlic powder can substitute, but use less.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin for flavor.
- Dried Herbs: Oregano, thyme, and basil are classic. Feel free to use an “Italian seasoning” blend.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Or chopped Roma tomatoes.
- Kalamata Olives: Pitted are easiest. Any black olive will do.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled or a block you can crumble yourself. Goat cheese is a good alternative.
Ingredients:
Main:
* 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
* 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
* 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
* 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
* 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Marinade & Seasoning:
* 3 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 (varies based on ingredients)
- Tools Needed: Large mixing bowl, baking dish (9×13 inch recommended)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken
Pat your chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. This helps them brown nicely. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
2. Make the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Pour this fragrant mixture over the chicken thighs.
3. Marinate the Chicken
Toss the chicken to coat evenly with the marinade. You can let it sit for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or cover and refrigerate for up to 30 minutes for deeper flavor.
4. Arrange in Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the marinated Mediterranean chicken thighs in a single layer in your baking dish. Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes and Kalamata olives around and over the chicken.
5. Bake Until Cooked
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The tomatoes should be soft and slightly burst.
6. Garnish and Serve
Remove the baking dish from the oven. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and fresh chopped parsley over the hot Mediterranean chicken thighs. Serve immediately!
Storage Instructions:
Leftover Mediterranean chicken thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or in a pan on the stovetop until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
-
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast works! Reduce the baking time slightly to 15-20 minutes to prevent them from drying out, or until an internal temperature of 165°F is reached. -
What can I serve with Mediterranean chicken thighs?
They pair wonderfully with rice, quinoa, couscous, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. -
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can marinate the chicken up to 30 minutes in advance. For best results, I recommend baking it just before serving. -
Do I need to sear the chicken first?
No, searing isn’t necessary for this recipe. Baking directly in the oven keeps it simple and delicious. -
What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
You can use dried herbs instead. As a general rule, use about one-third the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh. -
Is this recipe dairy-free?
No, it contains feta cheese. To make it dairy-free, simply omit the feta.