Roasted Mediterranean Chicken Thighs

These roasted Mediterranean chicken thighs with baby potatoes always remind me of my grandmother’s Sunday family gatherings the chicken is juicy and tender while the potatoes soak up all those delicious pan juices for the ultimate cozy meal any time of year

I started making this when my weeknights got hectic and now it is the dish my friends always ask for when they come over

Ingredients

• Chicken thighs: bone in for maximum flavor and tenderness try to choose chicken with skin for the crispiest results
• Olive oil: brings richness and helps the marinade stick choose extra virgin for bolder taste
• Tomato paste: adds hearty depth and color look for a tube or a small can with no added sugar
• Fresh parsley: chopped for brightness and a clean herbal note pick leaves that are deep green and avoid any wilting
• Lemon juice: for a fresh tang and to tenderize the chicken squeeze your own for the brightest flavor
• Smoked paprika: gives a bold smoky flavor opt for a Spanish variety if you can find it
• Garlic powder: delivers garlicky flavor in every bite make sure it is fresh and aromatic
• Dried oregano: gives classic Mediterranean warmth select dried leaves with a strong aroma
• Chili flakes: add a hint of gentle heat
• Salt and black pepper: heighten all the other flavors use kosher salt and coarsely ground pepper for best results
• Baby potatoes: they become creamy on the inside and golden outside choose ones that are firm and smooth with no green spots
• Drizzle of olive oil: helps potatoes roast evenly
• Salt and pepper to taste: for seasoning the potatoes just before roasting

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

Mix olive oil tomato paste parsley lemon juice smoked paprika garlic powder dried oregano chili flakes salt and pepper together in a large bowl and stir well until combined Add the chicken thighs ensuring each piece is coated thoroughly Let the chicken sit in the marinade for twenty to thirty minutes as this builds deep flavor and makes the chicken tender

Prepare Potatoes:

While the chicken marinates halve the baby potatoes with a sharp knife and toss them in a generous drizzle of olive oil in a baking dish Season with salt and pepper and spread them in an even layer Make sure the potatoes are cut side down for the best caramelization

Assemble and Bake:

Carefully arrange the marinated chicken thighs on top of the potatoes skin side down Cover the baking dish with foil to trap steam and allow flavors to mingle as the chicken cooks This keeps the chicken extra moist

First Bake:

Bake in a preheated oven at three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit or one hundred ninety degrees Celsius for fifty minutes The chicken starts to cook slowly and the potatoes absorb the pan juices This makes them creamy and bursting with flavor

Final Bake:

After fifty minutes take the dish out and remove the foil Flip the chicken so the skin side faces up Increase the oven temperature to four hundred twenty five degrees Fahrenheit or two hundred twenty degrees Celsius Roast uncovered for an additional thirty minutes so the chicken skin turns golden and crisp

Serve and Enjoy:

Serve the chicken hot with crispy potatoes included These are perfect with a fresh salad or your favorite dipping sauce on the side The pan juices can be spooned over the chicken and potatoes for extra flavor

Pin

Smoky paprika is my favorite ingredient here My son always manages to get the crispiest piece and tells me it tastes like a summer barbecue inside the house

Storage Tips

Cool leftovers and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Reheat in a oven at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through to keep the skin crisp You can also freeze cooked chicken and potatoes for up to two months though the potatoes may soften a little upon thawing

Ingredient Substitutions

If chicken thighs are not available boneless chicken breasts work but watch the baking time so they do not dry out No fresh parsley Swap in fresh basil or cilantro for a different herbal note Sweet potatoes can stand in for baby potatoes adding an earthier flavor

Pin

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish alongside a crisp Greek salad or a platter of roasted vegetables I sometimes like to finish with a drizzle of extra lemon juice and a handful of fresh herbs for even more color and freshness Warm pita or a scoop of Greek yogurt on the side makes everything extra satisfying

Cultural Inspiration

This recipe draws on traditional Mediterranean flavors found across Greece and southern Italy Ingredients like paprika oregano and lemon are cornerstones of regional home cooking that celebrate simple meals with bold flavors and minimal fuss

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ How long should the chicken marinate?

Allow the chicken thighs to marinate for at least 20-30 minutes to absorb the Mediterranean seasonings. For deeper flavor, marinate longer if time allows.

→ Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Boneless chicken thighs work, but bone-in provides more flavor and juiciness. Adjust cooking time as boneless cooks faster.

→ Is it necessary to flip the chicken halfway through baking?

Flipping the chicken and baking uncovered at higher heat helps crisp up the skin and adds beautiful color to the dish.

→ Can I substitute different potatoes?

Yes, fingerlings or Yukon Gold potatoes are excellent substitutes. Just cut them to similar sizes for even cooking.

→ What sides go well with this dish?

This Mediterranean-inspired meal pairs well with fresh salads, steamed vegetables, or grilled bread for a satisfying spread.