Mediterranean Garlic Chicken Recipe
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
30 mins
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Total Time
40 mins
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Servings
4 servings
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Calories
410 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
Mediterranean
Mediterranean Garlic Chicken Recipe
Description
This recipe uses a mix of garlic, fresh lemon juice, and aromatic dried herbs such as oregano and rosemary mixed with high-quality olive oil to marinate boneless, skinless chicken thighs. The marinade not only infuses the chicken with robust flavors but also helps to tenderize the meat. Marinating times range from one hour to overnight for deeper flavor development.
Before cooking, allowing the chicken to come to room temperature promotes even cooking throughout, reducing the risk of drying the exterior before the interior is cooked. Cooking is done on a grill pan or cast iron skillet over medium heat, which develops a golden crust while maintaining juiciness inside. The total cooking time is roughly 5 to 7 minutes per side, ensuring the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F.
This dish is versatile and can be accompanied by a variety of Mediterranean side dishes like salads with fresh herbs and lemon, roasted vegetables, or grains such as rice and bulgur. The garlic and herbs give a bright, savory note that complements many meal components in this cuisine.
Marinating with quality olive oil and fresh lemon juice makes a significant difference in flavor. The recipe can also be adapted for outdoor grilling or baking in the oven at 400°F, with appropriate adjustments to cooking time and turning the pieces halfway during baking.
Ingredients
- 2 lb chicken thighs skin-off and bone-off
- 10 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil extra virgin
- 1 1/2 tsp oregano dried
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp rosemary dried
- 1 lemon juice of
Instructions
- Pat dry the chicken and trim the excess fat. Set it aside.
- In a large bowl, mix the minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, pepper, rosemary and lemon juice.
- Add the chicken and using a pair of tongs, move the chicken so every piece is coated with the marinade.
- Cover and refrigerate for one hour up to 8 hours (overnight).
- When you're ready to cook, take the chicken out of the fridge and let it sit in the counter for 15 to 30 minutes.
- Heat a grill pan or a cast iron skillet over medium heat and lightly brush it with olive oil.
- Place the chicken pieces in the pan and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and golden brown.
- Serve with your favorite side dish.
Notes
- Use the best quality extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice for optimal marinade flavor.
- Let chicken rest at room temperature before cooking for even heat distribution.
- The chicken can be grilled outdoors by brushing the grill grates with oil; cook about 8 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Alternatively, bake marinated chicken pieces at 400°F for about 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve with Mediterranean side dishes like fattoush, tabouli, roasted vegetables, or rice pilafs for a complete meal.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 410 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 410kcal | 21% |
| Carbohydrates | 5g | 2% |
| Protein | 45g | 90% |
| Fat | 23g | 35% |
| Saturated Fat | 4g | 20% |
| Cholesterol | 215mg | 72% |
| Sodium | 785mg | 33% |
| Potassium | 623mg | 13% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 54IU | 1% |
| Vitamin C | 17mg | 19% |
| Calcium | 47mg | 5% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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