Description
Picture juicy chicken marinated in herbs, zesty lemon, and those tantalizing Mediterranean spices! With its perfect balance of savory and citrus notes, this dish brings warmth and sunshine to your dinner table, no matter the season.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 8 to 10 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 3 pounds total)
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (approximately 1 large lemon)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Vegetable Medley:
- 2 large red bell peppers, sliced into strips
- 1 medium red onion, cut into wedges
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (you may leave them whole or halve them)
- 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted (or use black olives if preferred)
- 1/3 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Optional Toppings and Sides:
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese (for a tangy flavor)
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted (for a crunchy texture)
- Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (a refreshing burst)
- Cooked couscous, quinoa, or rice (as an excellent side)
Variations and Alternative Ingredients:
If you desire to switch things up, you can vary the herbs and spices. Consider using fresh herbs like basil or dill instead of dried herbs for a more vibrant taste. For an added kick, include a pinch of red pepper flakes in the marinade. If you prefer, chicken breasts can be substituted for thighs, though they may require less marinating time due to their lean nature.
Instructions
Gather Your Ingredients
Start by preparing your ingredients. You will need:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Place the chicken breasts into a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken. Ensure each piece is coated properly.
Seal the bag or cover the dish. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Preheat Your Oven
While the chicken marinates, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures the chicken cooks evenly and remains juicy.
Prepare the Baking Dish
Take a large baking dish and lightly grease it with olive oil. This step prevents the chicken from sticking and aids in cleanup.
Arrange the Chicken
Once marinated, remove the chicken from the refrigerator. Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
Scatter the cherry tomatoes and Kalamata olives around the chicken. This not only adds flavor but also enhances the presentation.
Add Feta and Bake
Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese generously over the chicken and vegetables. The cheese will melt slightly, integrating beautifully with the dish.
Carefully place the baking dish in your preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Finish and Serve
Once cooked, remove the dish from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. This final touch adds color and freshness.
Serve your Mediterranean chicken warm, allowing everyone to enjoy the vibrant flavors!
Notes
Maintain the Right Cooking Temperature
Temperature plays a crucial role in cooking chicken. Make sure you preheat your oven or skillet appropriately. For oven baking, a temperature of 375°F (190°C) provides an even cook while keeping the chicken moist. In a skillet, medium-high heat works best. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This helps avoid undercooking or drying out the meat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main dish
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: Mediterranean, Mediterranean Chicken