Herb Roasted Mediterranean Chicken

Name: Herb Roasted Mediterranean Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 red onion, cut into wedges; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup Kalamata olives; Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: World Plates

I absolutely love the bold flavors of the Mediterranean, and this Herb Roasted Mediterranean Chicken brings all of that vibrant taste to my dinner table. With fresh herbs, zesty lemon, and a melody of spices, this recipe transforms simple chicken into a culinary delight. Whether I’m cooking for family or just indulging in a quiet night, this dish never fails to impress. It’s easy to prepare, and my kitchen fills with the most incredible aroma while it roasts. If you’re looking for a way to elevate your meals, this recipe is a must-try.

Created by

Erin Wallace

Last updated on 2026-02-10T16:13:35.956Z

This Herb Roasted Mediterranean Chicken has become one of my go-to recipes for gatherings. I experimented with various herbs and settled on rosemary and thyme for that perfect aromatic touch. I also found that marinating the chicken in lemon juice not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the meat tender and juicy during roasting.

During one of my test runs, I added olives and roasted vegetables to the pan, which created a colorful, complete meal without much additional effort. The combination of flavors was phenomenal, and it’s a great example of how simple ingredients can create an unforgettable dish.

Why You'll Love this Recipe
Fresh herbs bring vibrant flavors that awaken the senses
Juicy chicken that’s perfectly tender and flavorful
Versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides

Understanding the Marinade

The marinade in this recipe is key to achieving succulent chicken with depth of flavor. Olive oil serves as a base, helping the spices and herbs adhere better to the chicken while also keeping the meat moist during roasting. The acid from the lemon juice tenderizes the chicken and adds a bright note, which contrasts beautifully with the earthy flavors of rosemary and thyme. For best results, let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but allowing it overnight will deepen the flavors even more.

When mixing your marinade, consider the balance of ingredients. Fresh herbs release their essential oils when chopped, making them more potent in the marinade. A tip I like to share is to crush the garlic slightly before mincing it—this releases more flavor. If you're in a hurry, dried herbs can also be used; however, reduce the quantity as they are more concentrated compared to fresh.

Selecting Your Vegetables

The choice of vegetables in this dish not only adds color but also enhances the overall flavor profile. Cherry tomatoes provide sweetness and burst during roasting, while red onions bring a mild savory depth. Bell peppers contribute sweetness and a delightful crunch. Each vegetable absorbs the juice from the chicken, creating a medley of flavors that elevates the dish. When selecting vegetables, try to choose ones that are in season for the best taste.

You can also experiment with other vegetables that roast well, such as zucchini or asparagus. Just be aware that cooking times may vary; for instance, zucchini cooks quicker and could become mushy if added at the same time as the chicken. To avoid this, consider adding them halfway through the roasting process for optimal texture.

Serving and Storing Tips

Once your Herb Roasted Mediterranean Chicken is out of the oven, it’s best to let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the chicken, resulting in a more tender bite. Pair this dish with your favorite sides, such as couscous or a fresh Greek salad, to complete the meal. The roasted vegetables make a colorful and healthy accompaniment, bursting with flavor that complements the chicken nicely.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a preheated oven to avoid drying out the chicken; this usually takes about 15–20 minutes at 350°F (175°C). For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken and vegetables separately. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Ingredients

Gather everything you need for your Herb Roasted Mediterranean Chicken.

For the Chicken

4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lemon, juiced and zested
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

For Roasting

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 red onion, cut into wedges
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 cup Kalamata olives
Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

Preparation

Ensure all ingredients are prepped and ready to go.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious dish.

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well-coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for optimal flavor.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while the chicken marinates.

Arrange the Vegetables

In a large baking dish, combine the cherry tomatoes, red onion, bell pepper, and olives. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Roast the Chicken

Place the marinated chicken thighs on top of the vegetable mixture. Roast in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a golden skin.

Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm with the roasted vegetables.

Enjoy!

Dig in and enjoy the flavors of the Mediterranean!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider using flavored olive oils or adding different spices such as paprika or cumin to the marinade.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

One common issue when roasting chicken is uneven cooking, particularly with bone-in parts. To ensure even cooking, try to arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer in the baking dish, avoiding any overlap. Additionally, using a meat thermometer, check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part to ensure it’s safely cooked.

If the skin isn’t as crispy as you’d like by the end of the roasting time, you can broil it for 2-3 minutes. Just keep a close watch to prevent burning—the magic happens quickly!

Flavor Variations

Feel free to play around with the herbs and spices based on your preferences. For example, adding a teaspoon of paprika or cumin can give the chicken a nice smoky flavor. You can also swap the rosemary and thyme for other herbs like oregano or basil to cater to your taste or even to highlight the seasonality of herbs available.

For a bit of heat, try incorporating red pepper flakes into the marinade or adding some sliced jalapeños to the vegetable mix. This will give the dish a delicious kick without overpowering the fragrant herb notes.

Scaling the Recipe

If you’re preparing this for a larger crowd, scaling the recipe is straightforward. Simply double or triple the ingredients based on the number of servings required. Make sure to use a larger baking dish to accommodate the chicken and vegetables without overcrowding, which can lead to steaming instead of roasting.

When cooking more chicken, you may also need to extend the roasting time slightly. Always check the internal temperature to ensure that all pieces are fully cooked through, adjusting cooking time as necessary while avoiding drying out the chicken.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken breasts may dry out more quickly. Adjust the cooking time as needed, depending on thickness.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Definitely! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance or pre-cook it and reheat before serving.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Serving it with couscous, rice, or a fresh salad complements the flavors beautifully.

→ How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check.