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Easy One-Pan Mediterranean Chicken Thighs Recipe with Crispy Skin Perfect for Weeknights

one-pan Mediterranean chicken thighs - featured image
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A quick and easy one-pan Mediterranean chicken thighs recipe featuring crispy skin, vibrant flavors, and minimal fuss—perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds / 700 grams)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 1 lemon, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried oregano)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved (can substitute green olives)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and set the oven rack in the middle position.
  2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season generously on both sides with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
  3. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  4. Add the chicken thighs skin-side down. Cook without moving for 6-8 minutes until the skin is golden and crisp.
  5. Flip the chicken thighs and cook for another 3 minutes to sear the other side.
  6. Add sliced garlic, lemon slices, olives, and cherry tomatoes around the chicken. Sprinkle with chopped oregano and red pepper flakes if using.
  7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  8. Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to redistribute juices.
  9. Serve directly from the pan or transfer to a platter, spooning pan juices, tomatoes, and olives over the top.

Notes

Pat chicken skin dry to ensure crispiness. Use a hot pan and avoid moving chicken while searing. If skin isn’t crispy enough after roasting, broil for 1-2 minutes watching closely. Rest chicken for 5 minutes before serving. For low-sodium, rinse olives or reduce added salt. Can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a fuller meal.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mediterranean chicken, one-pan chicken, crispy chicken thighs, easy weeknight dinner, healthy chicken recipe, gluten-free, dairy-free

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