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Mediterranean Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs (Easy Skillet Recipe)

Mediterranean Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs (Easy Skillet Recipe)
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Mediterranean Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs are one of those simple dinners that taste like you spent hours cooking. The chicken turns golden and crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and the lemon-garlic-oregano marinade gives it that fresh, vibrant Mediterranean flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, but also elegant enough for guests.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 lemon, juiced (fresh is best)

  • 1 tsp dried oregano

  • Salt & black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1) Make the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together:

  • olive oil

  • minced garlic

  • lemon juice

  • oregano

  • salt and pepper

2) Marinate the Chicken

Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels (important for crispy skin).
Coat thoroughly in the marinade.

Cover and refrigerate for:

  • at least 30 minutes

  • up to 8 hours for deeper flavor

3) Pan-Fry

Heat a skillet over medium heat.

Place chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for 6–7 minutes until golden and crispy.

Flip and cook another 6–7 minutes, until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches:
✅ 165°F / 74°C

4) Rest & Serve

Remove chicken from the skillet and rest for 5 minutes.

Serve with:

  • Greek salad

  • roasted vegetables

  • couscous or quinoa

  • rice or potatoes

Notes

  • Dry the chicken first → crispier skin every time.

  • Use fresh lemon juice (not bottled) for a clean bright flavor.

  • Don’t cook on high heat—medium heat prevents burning garlic.

  • Use a thermometer to avoid dry chicken:

    • 165°F / 74°C at the thickest part

  • Want extra Mediterranean flavor? Add:

    • ½ tsp paprika

    • fresh rosemary or thyme

    • lemon zest for stronger lemon aroma

Find it online: https://biteseason.com/mediterranean-lemon-garlic-chicken-thighs-easy-skillet-recipe/