This Baked Mediterranean Chicken recipe is a celebration of vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, bringing the essence of the Mediterranean right to your dinner table. Juicy chicken thighs are marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and aromatic herbs, then baked alongside a colorful medley of bell peppers, red onions, and black olives. The result is a dish that’s not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients and bold flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll absolutely love this baked Mediterranean chicken recipe for its incredible flavor profile and ease of cooking. The marinade infuses the chicken with a tangy and savory taste, while the vegetables add a wonderful sweetness and texture. This dish fits perfectly into a healthy lifestyle, being high in protein, rich in healthy fats, and loaded with vitamins from the veggies. Plus, with minimal prep and just one pan to clean, it’s an excellent choice for busy weeknights or casual weekend gatherings.
Tips and Tricks
To elevate your Mediterranean chicken, consider these helpful tips and tricks:
- Marinate Longer: For even more flavor, let the chicken marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight in the fridge.
- Use Bone-in Chicken: Opting for bone-in chicken thighs can enhance the juiciness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Add Feta Cheese: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the dish just before serving for an extra layer of creaminess.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like oregano, thyme, or dill to find your perfect flavor combination.
Make Ahead Tips
This recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. The vegetables can also be chopped a day ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Once baked, leftovers will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, making this dish ideal for quick lunches throughout the week.
Recipe Variations
Here are some fun variations to try with this recipe:
- Swap Proteins: Use bone-in pork chops or even firm tofu (for a vegetarian option) instead of chicken.
- Different Vegetables: Feel free to add zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or artichoke hearts for a different flavor and texture.
- Cooking Methods: This recipe can also be adapted for grilling or using an air fryer for a slightly different finish and texture.
How to Serve
When serving your baked Mediterranean chicken, plate it beautifully by arranging the chicken and vegetables on a large serving platter. Drizzle with any remaining juices from the pan and garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Serve with a side of couscous, quinoa, or a fresh Greek salad for a complete meal.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement your Mediterranean chicken, consider pairing it with a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or a light, fruity rosé. For a fun twist, serve it alongside a refreshing cucumber and mint lemonade. As for sides, a warm pita bread or a hearty tzatziki sauce would be delightful additions.
How to Store
To store leftovers, place the chicken and vegetables in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze, ensure everything is cooled completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags or containers, where it can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals.
Equipment Needed
You’ll need a large mixing bowl for marinating, a baking dish or sheet pan for roasting, and a good quality knife and cutting board for chopping your veggies. If you have a meat thermometer, it’s helpful for ensuring your chicken is cooked to perfection.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth in the marinade. For a dairy-free adaptation, simply omit any cheese. Gluten-free eaters can enjoy this dish as is, just be cautious with any sides or accompaniments.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring and summer, use fresh, ripe tomatoes and zucchini for a burst of flavor, while in the fall and winter, roasted root vegetables like carrots and parsnips can add a cozy touch to the dish.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, but adjust the cooking time down as breasts cook faster.
- What can I substitute for black olives? Green olives or capers can work well as alternatives.
- How do I know when the chicken is done? The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
How To Make baked mediterranean chicken recipe
Baked Mediterranean Chicken
This Baked Mediterranean Chicken recipe is a celebration of vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, bringing the essence of the Mediterranean right to your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and coat well. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight if possible.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Vegetables: In a separate bowl, toss the sliced bell pepper, red onion, and black olives with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the marinated chicken thighs in a large baking dish and arrange the vegetables around them.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 235Total Fat 20gSaturated Fat 3gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 16gCholesterol 42mgSodium 259mgCarbohydrates 7gFiber 2gSugar 2gProtein 9g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This baked Mediterranean chicken recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a delightful experience that transports you to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean. With its vibrant flavors, ease of preparation, and healthy ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether for a casual dinner or an impressive gathering, this dish is bound to impress and satisfy. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean!
