Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure! This Lemon Olive Chicken is not just a recipe, it's a flavor explosion that will transport you straight to the sun-drenched coastlines of the Mediterranean. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you'll create a dish so delicious, your family and friends will be begging for seconds. Imagine tender, crispy-skinned chicken infused with bright lemon, aromatic garlic, and briny olives - a combination so irresistible, it'll make your taste buds dance with joy!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup olives, pitted
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Ensure the rack is positioned in the center of the oven for even cooking.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a crispy skin during roasting.
- Season both sides of the chicken thighs generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- In a small bowl, mix minced garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil to create a marinade. Whisk until well combined.
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs in a large cast-iron skillet or roasting pan, skin-side up. Arrange pitted olives around the chicken.
- Pour the lemon-garlic marinade evenly over the chicken and olives, ensuring good coverage.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken skin is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5-7 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Serve hot, spooning the pan juices and olives over the chicken. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.
Tips
- Pat the chicken thighs completely dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden-brown skin.
- Use a cast-iron skillet if possible - it provides even heat distribution and creates an amazing crust.
- Don't skip the resting period after cooking; it helps redistribute the juices, keeping the chicken moist.
- For extra flavor, use high-quality, pitted olives like Kalamata for an authentic Mediterranean taste.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to guarantee perfectly cooked chicken.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can elevate the presentation and add a fresh, aromatic touch.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a light Greek salad to complete your Mediterranean meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 130mg
