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why make this recipe
Baked Mediterranean Chicken Thighs is a delicious and healthy dish that is easy to prepare. It brings the flavors of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen. With lean chicken thighs and fresh ingredients, this recipe is low in fat yet high in flavor. Plus, it’s all cooked in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. You’ll enjoy a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.
how to make Baked Mediterranean Chicken Thighs
To make Baked Mediterranean Chicken Thighs, follow these easy steps. You’ll prepare a flavorful marinade, coat the chicken with it, and then bake everything together for a simple and tasty dinner.
Ingredients :
- 8 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin and excess fat removed)
- 1 onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 ripe tomato (skin removed and grated)
- 2-3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 lemon (juice)
- 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary (optional)
- 5 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 teaspoon of oregano
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- ½ teaspoon of white pepper
- Salt (to taste)
Directions :
Step 1 – Make marinade: In a bowl, mix the grated tomato, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, cumin, onion powder, white pepper, and salt. This will be your marinade.
Step 2 – Add chicken and bake: Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish, and pour the marinade over them. Add the sliced onion and rosemary on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
Step 3 – Serve: Once done, take the chicken out and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
how to serve Baked Mediterranean Chicken Thighs
You can serve Baked Mediterranean Chicken Thighs with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. This dish pairs well with rice or quinoa as well. Don’t forget to drizzle some extra marinade over the top for added flavor.
how to store Baked Mediterranean Chicken Thighs
To store leftovers, place the chicken thighs in an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store them longer, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container. They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
tips to make Baked Mediterranean Chicken Thighs
- For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
- If you want a crispier skin, you can broil the chicken for a few minutes at the end of baking.
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers or zucchini, to the baking dish.
variation
You can swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner meat. Just adjust the cooking time since breasts may cook faster. You could also add olives or feta cheese for a more authentic Mediterranean touch.
FAQs
1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs, but be sure to reduce the cooking time, as they cook faster than bone-in thighs.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free. Just ensure that the spices do not have any additives that contain gluten.
3. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried herbs. Use about one-third of the amount of fresh herbs, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
Baked Mediterranean Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, mix the grated tomato, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, cumin, onion powder, white pepper, and salt. This will be your marinade.
- Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish, and pour the marinade over them. Add the sliced onion and rosemary on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
- Once done, take the chicken out and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
