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Mediterranean Chicken Thighs

Tender chicken thighs marinated in aromatic spices and roasted to perfection with crispy skin, perfect for any family gathering.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil For marinating the chicken
  • 1 lemon juiced (and zest for extra flavor) Adds brightness to the dish
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor profile
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano Traditional Mediterranean herb
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked) For added depth
  • to taste Salt and black pepper Seasoning to enhance flavors
For the Chicken
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs The main protein of the dish
For Garnish
  • to taste Fresh parsley or dill Optional for garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  2. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, ensuring they are well coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for even more flavor).
  3. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  4. Place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pour any remaining marinade over them for added flavor.
Cooking
  1. Cook in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the skin is golden and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Serving
  1. Remove from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh dill or parsley if desired, then serve warm, paired with rice or a fresh salad.

Notes

If substituting ingredients, try using thyme or basil instead of oregano. For best results, do not flip the chicken during cooking to maintain crispiness. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet for even cooking. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.