Bring the sunny warmth of the Mediterranean straight to your dinner table with this vibrant lemon and herb chicken bake. Succulent chicken thighs soak up bright citrus flavors, fresh herbs, and briny olives, making each bite taste like a seaside vacation. It’s a hearty, satisfying main dish that pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup pitted Kalamata olives
- Handful of fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel to ensure they get a nice golden crust when cooked. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Rub this flavorful marinade all over the chicken, making sure to get under the skin for extra taste.
Arrange the chicken thighs in a baking dish, skin-side up, and scatter the cherry tomato halves and olives around them. Bake for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. The skin should be crispy, and the tomatoes will be just blistered and juicy.
Once the chicken is out of the oven, top it off with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and bright flavor. Let it rest for a couple of minutes, allowing all those Mediterranean aromas to mingle and intensify.
This Mediterranean Lemon & Herb Chicken Bake is perfect for anyone looking for a flavorful yet straightforward dinner. The dish offers a burst of tangy citrus and herby goodness, while olives add a savory depth. It’s also easy to adapt by swapping in boneless thighs or chicken breasts and adding veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Whether you’re following a healthier diet or simply craving a quick and delicious meal, this cozy bake captures the essence of sunny, Mediterranean-style cooking in every bite.
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
