Mediterranean Garlic Herb Baked Chicken Thighs
Tender, juicy chicken thighs baked in a bold Mediterranean-inspired garlic herb marinade, finished with a golden, cheesy crust. It’s comforting, simple, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend feast.
Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Marinate Time (optional): 30 minutes – 2 hours
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 35–45 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon thyme or rosemary
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
½ cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, basil, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken thighs to a zip-top bag or bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken and mix to coat evenly. Marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours in the refrigerator (optional, but enhances flavor).
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
Bake the Chicken
Place marinated chicken in the baking dish in a single layer.
Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and cheese is golden brown.
Finish and Serve
Let rest for 5 minutes.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Serve with Greek Orzo Salad, roasted vegetables, or pita bread.
Tips for Best Results
Use Thighs for Juiciness
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs stay moist and tender, even with high-heat baking. If using breasts, pound them slightly for even cooking.
Marinate for Flavor
While optional, marinating for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) helps infuse the chicken with vibrant Mediterranean flavors.
Cheese Tip
Broil for the last 2–3 minutes to get that beautifully golden, bubbly cheese top — just keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
Let It Rest
After baking, rest the chicken for a few minutes. This locks in juices and ensures tender results.
Double the Batch
This dish stores and reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep. Bake extra for quick lunches!
Tasty Variations
Cheese Swaps
Use Parmesan for a salty, crisp finish, or feta for a briny Mediterranean twist.
Fresh Herbs Upgrade
Substitute dried herbs with fresh oregano, basil, or thyme if available. Use 3x the amount of fresh herbs in place of dried.
Add a Kick
Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy edge.
Mediterranean Topping
Top baked chicken with chopped Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or a drizzle of tzatziki for extra flair.
Bright Citrus Flavor
For a more citrusy touch, slice fresh lemon rounds and bake them on top of or alongside the chicken.
Q&A – Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes! Chicken breasts work well too. Just be sure to pound them to an even thickness and reduce baking time slightly to prevent drying out.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes — as long as all your ingredients (especially cheese and spices) are free from gluten-containing additives, it’s naturally gluten-free.
Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?
Absolutely. Grill over medium-high heat for 5–7 minutes per side, then sprinkle with cheese just before serving or melt it under a broiler briefly.
What should I serve it with?
Greek orzo salad
Roasted vegetables
Lemon potatoes
Tzatziki and warm pita
It also pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, it freezes well. Cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approx. 1 thigh)
Based on 6 servings
Calories: 310
Protein: 26g
Fat: 21g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 0.5g
Sugar: 0.5g
Sodium: 380mg
Tip: Use reduced-fat cheese or skinless breasts to lower calories and fat.
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Garlic Herb Baked Chicken is a crowd-pleasing, flavor-packed dish that’s simple to make yet impressive on the table. The combination of lemon, herbs, garlic, and bubbling cheese creates a dish that’s both comforting and bright.
Serve it for dinner, meal prep, or gatherings — it’s endlessly versatile and always satisfying.