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: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 1/4 cup olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped; Lemon wedges

Highlighted under: Oven Planning

I absolutely love the vibrant flavors that come alive in these Mediterranean Baked Chicken Thighs. The combination of garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs creates a delightful aroma that fills my kitchen while they cook. I often prepare this dish for family gatherings, as it’s simple yet impressively flavorful. Each bite is a burst of savory goodness that brings the essence of the Mediterranean to my dinner table. Whether paired with a salad or served alongside roasted vegetables, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household too!

Created by

Questa Beaumont

Last updated on 2026-01-24T14:55:35.057Z

When I first made these Mediterranean Baked Chicken Thighs, I was amazed at how easy it was to create such rich flavors. I marinated the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and a mix of herbs, allowing it to soak in all those delicious tastes. The secret is to let the chicken rest in the marinade for at least 30 minutes, but if time allows, overnight is even better!

What I love about this recipe is that it’s versatile. You can customize the herbs and spices based on what you have at home. I often add a pinch of crushed red pepper for a bit of heat. The result is succulent chicken with a crispy skin that's bursting with Mediterranean goodness—all made in one pan!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Succulent chicken thighs with crispy skin
Fresh Mediterranean flavors that elevate the dish
Easy preparation that impresses guests

The Importance of Marinating

Marinating the chicken is a key step that enhances both flavor and tenderness. The olive oil acts as a lubricant, providing a crispy exterior once baked, while the acidity from the lemon juice helps to break down muscle fibers, making the chicken juicy and succulent. It's best to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you can plan ahead, letting the chicken sit in the marinade for 2-4 hours or even overnight will deepen the flavors significantly.

If you're short on time, you can still yield decent results with a quick marinade, but keep an eye on the salt content as prolonged exposure can lead to overly salty chicken. I like to use a zip-top bag for marinating, as it allows for better coverage of the marinade and takes up less space in the refrigerator.

Perfecting the Bake

When it comes to baking the chicken, achieving that perfect golden, crispy skin is essential. Start by placing the chicken thighs skin-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. If your oven tends to run hot, consider using an oven thermometer to verify the temperature, as undercooking or overcooking can lead to chewy or dry meat. The chicken should look golden brown, with the juices running clear when pierced.

For an extra crispy skin, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just keep a close eye on it, as broiling can quickly go from perfect to burnt. If you prefer, you can also flip the chicken halfway through baking to achieve a more uniform cook.

Ingredients

For the chicken

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1/4 cup olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

For garnish

Fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges

Instructions

Marinate the chicken

In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat evenly. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Bake the chicken

Place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add sliced olives and cherry tomatoes to the baking sheet before placing it in the oven. They will roast alongside the chicken, creating a delightful side dish.

Serving Suggestions

These Mediterranean Baked Chicken Thighs pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. A fresh Greek salad, with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta, complements the flavors beautifully and adds a refreshing crunch. For a heartier option, consider serving the chicken with some roasted or sautéed vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers, which can be cooked in the same oven for a simple, one-pan meal.

Another option is to serve the chicken with a side of couscous or quinoa, both of which can absorb the delicious juices from the chicken. If you have leftover marinade, consider cooking it down in a saucepan to create a sauce that can drizzle over your plated dish for added flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to make this dish in advance, you can marinate the chicken and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Just make sure to keep the chicken in an airtight container to prevent the marinade from spilling and contaminating other foods. This not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to infuse even more into the chicken.

You can also cook the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, ensuring the skin stays crispy. Another option is to freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months; just let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.

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 pair well with this chicken?

Mediterranean rice, roasted vegetables, or a Greek salad are excellent accompaniments.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken the night before and bake it when you’re ready to eat.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.