Mediterranean grilled chicken thighs are a flavorful and succulent dish marinated in a bold blend of spices, lemon, garlic, and olive oil. Charred to perfection, these juicy chicken thighs are perfect for outdoor grilling, casual dinners, or Mediterranean-inspired meals. Served with flatbread, olives, and yogurt sauce, this dish brings vibrant taste and color to the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This grilled chicken dish is incredibly versatile, quick to prepare, and deeply satisfying. The marinade infuses the meat with robust flavor, and grilling brings out a smoky, caramelized finish. Perfect for pairing with salads, grains, or dips like tzatziki, these chicken thighs offer a healthier yet indulgent alternative to fried or breaded options. Ideal for both weeknight meals and entertaining guests.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- Olive oil
- Garlic, minced
- Lemon juice and zest
- Smoked paprika
- Ground cumin
- Ground coriander
- Dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Lemon halves (for grilling, optional)
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and spices. Whisk until well blended.
- Add chicken thighs and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates.
- Grill the chicken thighs for 5–6 minutes per side or until charred and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
- Optional: Grill lemon halves cut-side down until caramelized, about 2–3 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with grilled lemon.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4–6 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 1 hour (or overnight)
Cooking time: 12–15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Variations
- Substitute boneless chicken breasts or drumsticks if preferred.
- Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes for heat.
- Use fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a more herbaceous profile.
- Marinate with Greek yogurt for a tenderizing twist.
- Serve with warm pita, hummus, or tabbouleh for a full Mediterranean spread.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a covered skillet over medium heat or in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.
Avoid microwaving for too long to prevent the chicken from drying out.
Grilled chicken can also be frozen for up to 2 months and thawed in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?
Yes, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes or until fully cooked, then broil for 2–3 minutes to char the top.
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but adjust the cooking time as breasts tend to cook faster and can dry out more easily.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 1 hour is recommended, but overnight marinating yields the best flavor.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Tzatziki, couscous, roasted vegetables, and Greek salad are all excellent choices.
Is it necessary to grill the lemon halves?
No, but grilling enhances their flavor and adds a lovely smoky note when squeezed over the chicken.
Can I cook this on a stovetop grill pan?
Yes, a cast iron grill pan or skillet works well if an outdoor grill is not available.
Is this dish spicy?
It is more aromatic than spicy. For added heat, include cayenne pepper or harissa paste.
Can I use pre-made Mediterranean spice blend?
Yes, but adjust salt levels accordingly if the blend includes salt.
How can I tell when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Can I meal prep this recipe?
Yes, it stores and reheats well, making it ideal for meal prep or packed lunches.
Conclusion
Mediterranean grilled chicken thighs are a delicious and practical choice for any meal, blending smoky, zesty, and savory flavors in every bite. Whether cooked on a grill or stovetop, they deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort. Serve them with classic Mediterranean sides for a satisfying and wholesome dining experience that feels both fresh and indulgent.
Print
Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Thighs
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Halal
Description
Crispy-skinned chicken thighs roasted with fingerling potatoes in aromatic za’atar spice, finished with a bright and zesty herb gremolata—perfectly balanced between savory, earthy, and fresh.
Ingredients
- For the chicken & potatoes:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 1/2 lbs fingerling potatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons za’atar spice blend
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- For the gremolata:
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, toss chicken thighs and halved potatoes with olive oil, za’atar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange chicken and potatoes in a large oven-safe skillet or roasting pan in a single layer, skin-side up.
- Roast for 40–45 minutes or until chicken skin is crispy and potatoes are golden and tender, flipping potatoes halfway through if needed.
- Meanwhile, make the gremolata by mixing parsley, lemon zest, garlic, olive oil, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl.
- Once out of the oven, spoon gremolata over the chicken and potatoes. Serve hot, directly from the skillet.
Notes
- Use Yukon gold or baby red potatoes if fingerlings aren’t available.
- Gremolata can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the spices for a few hours before roasting.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 chicken thighs with potatoes
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
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