Mediterranean Baked Chicken Thighs

Name: Mediterranean Baked Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/4 cup olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on; 1/2 cup olives, pitted and chopped; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Ideas

I love making Mediterranean baked chicken thighs for dinner because they are bursting with flavor and incredibly easy to prepare. Marinated with olives, lemon, and aromatic herbs, these chicken thighs turn out juicy and tender every time. The combination of ingredients brings a taste of the Mediterranean right into my kitchen, and it’s a hit with my family. This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights or for impressing guests on the weekend!

Created by

Emma Parker

Last updated on 2026-02-01T22:37:36.063Z

When I first tried Mediterranean baked chicken thighs, I was blown away by how flavor-packed they are. The marination process not only infuses the meat with rich flavors from the olives and spices but also helps keep the chicken moist during cooking. A tip I learned is to not rush the marination—letting it soak in for at least an hour can make a world of difference!

Another thing that makes this dish special is the crispiness of the skin. It’s important to bake them at a high temperature to achieve that golden crunch. Pairing it with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables makes it a complete and satisfying meal!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Combines savory flavors of olives and herbs for an unforgettable taste
Juicy chicken thighs that remain moist thanks to the perfect marinade
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions

      

Mastering the Marinade

The marinade is the key to achieving tender and flavorful chicken thighs in this recipe. The combination of olive oil and lemon juice not only acts as a flavor enhancer but also helps to tenderize the meat through the acidic properties of the lemon. Marinating for at least one hour is recommended, but if you can let it sit overnight, you’ll notice a deeper infusion of the aromatic garlic and herbs. This time also allows the flavors of oregano and thyme to meld beautifully with the chicken.

When preparing the marinade, be sure to whisk the ingredients until they are well combined. This ensures an even distribution of flavor in every bite. Garlic provides a robust kick, while the spices add depth. If you're short on time, you could also consider using a store-bought Mediterranean herb blend; however, nothing compares to freshly minced garlic and dried herbs from your well-stocked spice rack.

Tip for Baking Perfection

Baking the chicken at a high temperature of 425°F (220°C) is essential for achieving golden, crispy skin while keeping the meat moist. Make sure to arrange the chicken thighs skin-side up in your baking dish to allow ample exposure to the heat. This technique not only enhances the texture but also encourages the skin to render fat, which helps keep the chicken juicy throughout the cooking process.

A visual cue to look for is the skin turning a lovely golden brown by the time your cooking time reaches around 30 minutes. To confirm the chicken is done, use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Remember to allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving, as this helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat.

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

1/4 cup olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Chicken:

4 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
1/2 cup olives, pitted and chopped
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Bake the Chicken

Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a baking dish, skin side up. Scatter the chopped olives across the dish. Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the skin is golden brown.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your Mediterranean baked chicken thighs with a side of your choice!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or feta cheese to the chicken before baking.

Serving Suggestions

These Mediterranean baked chicken thighs pair wonderfully with a variety of sides that complement their vibrant flavors. Consider serving them over a bed of fluffy couscous or orzo salad, tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette. For a heartier option, creamy mashed potatoes topped with artisanal olives would be exceptional.

You can also create a full Mediterranean feast by adding roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant alongside the baking dish. Just be mindful of their cooking times; thinly sliced vegetables will cook through in the same time frame as the chicken, while thicker cuts may need a bit longer.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, Mediterranean baked chicken thighs store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To prolong freshness, make sure to place them in an airtight container. If you plan to enjoy them later, consider freezing the marinated chicken before baking—it can stay frozen for up to 3 months. Just thwaw it overnight in the fridge before cooking to ensure even cooking.

When reheating, gently warm the chicken in a preheated oven set to 350°F (175°C) until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) again. This method keeps the skin crispy while maintaining the succulent meat texture. Microwaving can lead to rubbery skin, so I recommend avoiding that method if you're aiming for crispy results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used, but reduce the cooking time to about 25-30 minutes.

→ What side dishes go well with this recipe?

This dish pairs well with a Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or over a bed of rice.

→ Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken the night before to save time on cooking day.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.