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–+ servings
Mediterranean chicken thighs served in a white bowl.

Grilled Mediterranean Chicken Thigh Recipe

These Mediterranean Chicken Thighs are juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. After making chicken thighs countless times in culinary school, I learned the exact steps to get perfectly cooked, tender chicken every single time! With a zesty lemon garlic marinade and a foolproof sear (or grill!) technique, this recipe proves that chicken doesn't have to be boring!
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound chicken thighs boneless, skinless
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp pepper
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 3 garlic cloves minced

Method
 

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, pepper, lemon juice and zest, oregano, paprika, cumin, and minced garlic. Add the chicken thighs and toss until well coated. Cover and let marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 8 hours in the fridge for more flavor).
  2. Preheat and Cook: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken thighs. Cook for about 10 minutes minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
  3. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving. Garnish with extra lemon zest or fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Tips:

  • Don’t skip the zest! Lemon zest adds brightness that doesn’t cook off, giving layers of fresh flavor every time.
  • Allow the chicken to sear! Very important. Don't flip the chicken over and over. Just let it sear good on each side, flipping only once if possible.
  • Use high heat. A hot skillet or grill gives you that golden, charred exterior without drying out the meat.
  • Let it rest! A short rest keeps the juices inside the chicken instead of all over your cutting board.

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