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Leena Chef

Baked Mediterranean Chicken with Herbs & Lemon

This one-pan baked chicken is infused with aromatic herbs, bright lemon, and Mediterranean vegetables. It's a complete meal that requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor, perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinner parties.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 425
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 lbs)
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, divided
  • 2 lemons (1 juiced, 1 sliced)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes
  • 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
  • 1 red onion, cut into wedges
  • 1 cup baby potatoes, halved (optional)
  • fresh parsley for garnish
  • crumbled feta cheese for serving (optional)

Equipment

  • baking dish or cast-iron skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • small bowl
  • tongs or spoon
  • oven mitts

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
  3. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Place in a large bowl and pour marinade over them, rubbing it under the skin and all over. Let marinate for 10 minutes (or up to 4 hours in refrigerator).
  4. In a large baking dish or cast-iron skillet, arrange lemon slices on the bottom.
  5. Place marinated chicken thighs skin-side up on top of lemon slices.
  6. Scatter cherry tomatoes, olives, onion wedges, and potatoes (if using) around the chicken.
  7. Drizzle remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over the vegetables and season with a pinch of salt.
  8. Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and skin is golden and crispy.
  9. For extra crispy skin, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  10. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
  11. Garnish with fresh parsley and crumbled feta if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread to soak up the delicious pan juices.

Notes

For best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before baking. You can substitute chicken thighs with drumsticks or breasts, adjusting bake time as needed. Serve with a side of rice, couscous, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.