If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bright, zesty flavors and transports you straight to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Easy Mediterranean Chicken with Lemons & Olives Recipe. It’s a beautiful blend of tender, juicy chicken thighs bathed in tangy lemon slices, briny olives, and aromatic herbs that create a melody of tastes in every bite. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive meal with friends, this recipe is effortless to prepare but undeniably impressive—bringing that refreshing lift that only Mediterranean cooking can offer.

Easy Mediterranean Chicken with Lemons & Olives Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Easy Mediterranean Chicken with Lemons & Olives Recipe lies in its simplicity and quality ingredients. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, from the crispiness of the skin to the vibrant pop of olives and the fresh brightness of lemon and parsley.

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: Choose thighs for the best balance of juicy meat and crispy skin.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps to achieve that perfect golden sear on the chicken.
1 lemon (sliced into thin rounds): Infuses the dish with zesty freshness and slightly caramelizes during cooking.
3 garlic cloves (minced): Provides a fragrant, savory backbone to the dish.
½ cup pitted green olives: Bring a sharp, briny contrast that livens the palate.
½ cup pitted Kalamata olives: Offers a deep, fruity richness that balances the lemon’s acidity.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic Mediterranean herb that adds earthiness and warmth.
½ teaspoon ground cumin: Introduces a subtle smokiness that complements the olives perfectly.
Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing every flavor.
½ cup chicken broth: Keeps the chicken moist and creates a flavorful sauce.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds color and a fresh herbal finish.

How to Make Easy Mediterranean Chicken with Lemons & Olives Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels—this is a key step to get that irresistible crispy skin. Then, generously season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and ground cumin. The seasoning mixture creates an aromatic base that will transform as it cooks.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, place the chicken thighs skin side down. Sear for 4 to 5 minutes without moving them to develop a beautiful golden crust. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes to lightly brown the other side. Then, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Lemons

Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to burn it as garlic turns bitter quickly. Then add the lemon slices and cook for about 1 minute to release their bright oils and soften their edges. This step infuses the pan with layers of fresh, tangy flavor that will mingle beautifully with the chicken.

Step 4: Add Broth and Olives

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to lift any delicious browned bits—this is where much of the flavor lives. Stir in both the green and Kalamata olives, spreading them evenly in the skillet. The combination of olives offers a perfectly balanced briny punch that’s essential in this Easy Mediterranean Chicken with Lemons & Olives Recipe.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet, skin side up, arranging the lemon slices and olives around them. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The chicken is ready when its internal temperature hits 165°F and the juices run clear. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes once out of the oven to lock in all those fantastic juices.

How to Serve Easy Mediterranean Chicken with Lemons & Olives Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle the chicken with freshly chopped parsley to introduce a pop of color and a fresh herbal aroma. For an extra touch of brightness, consider squeezing a little fresh lemon juice over the top just before serving—this adds a lively zing that complements the olives and garlic perfectly.

Side Dishes

This chicken shines brightest when paired with simple, Mediterranean-inspired sides. Fluffy couscous, fragrant jasmine or basmati rice, or golden roasted potatoes absorb the luscious sauce beautifully and keep the meal balanced. Steamed or roasted seasonal vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, add color and nutrition without overshadowing the main star.

Creative Ways to Present

For a beautiful family-style presentation, serve the chicken thighs directly from the skillet placed center-stage on the table—guests will love scooping up the lemony olives and dipping crusty bread into the sauce. Alternatively, arrange the chicken on a large platter surrounded by lemon wedges and freshly sprinkled parsley to impress at your next dinner party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Easy Mediterranean Chicken with Lemons & Olives Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to include some of the sauce and olives to keep the chicken moist and flavorful.

Freezing

This dish freezes well if you want to prepare ahead. Place cooled chicken along with the sauce and olives in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. To preserve texture, avoid freezing the lemon slices separately unless you want extra lemony intensity.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a low oven or covered skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary to prevent dryness. Microwaving works too, but do so in short bursts covered loosely with a microwave-safe lid to maintain juiciness and avoid overcooking the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken instead of bone-in thighs?

Absolutely! Boneless thighs or breasts will work, though you’ll want to reduce oven time slightly since boneless cuts cook faster. Keep an eye on them to avoid drying out the meat.

Are the olives necessary for this recipe?

Olives are a key component that bring the characteristic briny depth essential to the Mediterranean flavor profile. You can adjust the amount or type of olives if you prefer a milder taste, but they really shine here.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free. The olive oil provides healthy fats and rich flavor without the need for butter or cream, making it perfect for all kinds of dietary preferences.

How do I get the chicken skin extra crispy?

Patting the chicken dry before seasoning and cooking over medium-high heat are crucial steps for crispy skin. Avoid overcrowding the pan and resist the urge to move the chicken while searing for the best crust.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! It keeps well in the fridge and can be enjoyed cold or reheated. Pair it with pre-cooked grains or roasted veggies for an easy, balanced lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Mediterranean Chicken with Lemons & Olives Recipe is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug from the Mediterranean sun—zesty, comforting, and effortlessly elegant. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, it comes together quickly with straightforward ingredients but delivers complex, unforgettable flavor. Give it a try and let your kitchen fill with the enticing aroma of garlic, lemon, and olives—you’ll be hooked from the very first bite!