Chicken

Savory Delights: Greek-Style Baked Chicken Thighs

Savory Delights: Greek-Style Baked Chicken Thighs
Greek Baked Chicken Thighs

Transform your dinner table into a Mediterranean feast with this Greek-Style Baked Chicken Thighs recipe. Bursting with robust flavors and aromatic herbs, this dish is not only incredibly delicious but also delightfully easy to prepare. Ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe promises to be a hit.

Equipment Needed:

Ingredients:

  • 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried oregano)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is warming, prepare the marinade. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, fresh oregano, fresh thyme, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you're using them.

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Add them to the bowl, ensuring each piece is generously coated with the marinade. Let the chicken sit for at least 15 minutes to soak in the flavors. For a deeper infusion, marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours.

Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a baking dish, skin-side up. Pour the chicken broth around the chicken, being careful not to wash off the marinade from the top. Scatter the sliced Kalamata olives over the chicken.

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Basting occasionally with the pan juices will enhance the flavor and moisture of the chicken.

Once the chicken is fully cooked, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top and return to the oven for 2-3 minutes, just until the cheese softens.

Remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite tender and flavorful.

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Perfect Pairings:

This Greek-Style Baked Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Serve it with a classic Greek salad, featuring crisp cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and tangy feta. A side of lemon orzo or herbed rice pilaf complements the savory notes of the chicken beautifully. For a hearty vegetable option, consider roasted Mediterranean vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions.

Creating this dish is a joy that brings the essence of Greek cuisine to your kitchen. The aromatic herbs and zesty lemon will fill your home with an inviting fragrance, while the deliciously marinated chicken promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and relish the satisfaction of sharing a delectable meal with your loved ones.

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