This Roasted Mediterranean Chicken Thighs & Baby Potatoes recipe is the ultimate one-pan meal that checks all the boxes: flavor-packed, minimal prep, and unbelievably satisfying. Juicy chicken thighs are nestled among golden baby potatoes, all seasoned with bold Mediterranean spices and roasted to crispy, savory perfection. It’s the kind of dish that tastes like it took hours—but it’s ready in about 45 minutes. Ideal for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and wholesome without hovering over the stove.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: Just toss everything on one baking sheet and let the oven do the work. No fuss, no piles of dirty dishes.
- Incredible Flavor: Every bite bursts with garlic, lemon, herbs, and that rich olive oil goodness that defines Mediterranean cuisine.
- Perfect Texture: The chicken skin crisps up beautifully while staying juicy inside, and the potatoes get those irresistible crispy edges and soft, fluffy centers.
- Balanced & Nourishing: A great mix of protein, healthy fats, and carbs in one go—plus you can always toss in more veggies if you want to amp up the nutrition.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what brings this crave-worthy dish together:
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: For the best flavor and texture—crispy skin and juicy meat. Boneless can work too, but the skin really takes it up a notch.
- Baby potatoes: Choose a mix of red and yellow for color and flavor variety. Their size makes them perfect for roasting whole or halved.
- Olive oil: Don’t skimp—this is the base of that beautiful Mediterranean richness and helps everything roast perfectly.
- Lemon juice + zest: Brightens the whole dish with a zippy tang that balances the richness of the chicken.
- Garlic: Lots of minced garlic brings depth and that unmistakable Mediterranean soul.
- Dried oregano and thyme: Classic herbs that infuse everything with savory warmth. Fresh herbs can be used too, just add them toward the end of roasting.
- Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and beautiful color.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for drawing out all the other flavors.
- Cherry tomatoes (optional): Adds a juicy burst and sweet contrast to the savory chicken and potatoes.
Variations
Want to switch things up a little? Totally doable:
- Add Veggies: Toss in red onions, bell peppers, or zucchini for more color and nutrients.
- Spicy Twist: A pinch of chili flakes or harissa paste adds a warming heat if that’s your style.
- Different Cuts: Boneless chicken thighs or even drumsticks work fine, just adjust the cooking time.
- Make it Saucy: Drizzle with a dollop of tzatziki or a quick yogurt-garlic sauce for a creamy contrast.
How to Make Roasted Mediterranean Chicken Thighs & Baby Potatoes
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Season Everything
In a large bowl, toss the chicken thighs and baby potatoes with olive oil, garlic, lemon zest and juice, paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well coated—your hands are the best tool for this.
Step 3: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Spread the potatoes out on the prepared baking sheet, then nestle the chicken thighs in between, skin side up. If using cherry tomatoes, add them toward the end of cooking to avoid over-softening.
Step 4: Roast
Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and cooked through (internal temp should hit 165°F/74°C) and the potatoes are tender and crispy on the edges.
Step 5: Broil for Extra Crisp
Optional but worth it: turn on the broiler for the last 2–3 minutes to crisp up the chicken skin even more. Just keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Let it rest for a few minutes out of the oven, then serve warm with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of lemon juice for extra brightness.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Dry the Chicken Skin: Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to help it crisp up nicely in the oven.
- Cut Potatoes Evenly: Halving them ensures they cook evenly and get those crisped-up sides.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give the ingredients room to roast instead of steam—you want those delicious caramelized edges.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: It’s the easiest way to guarantee the chicken is perfectly cooked without drying out.
How to Serve
This dish is a complete meal on its own, but here are some pairing ideas to elevate it even further:
- Side Salad: A crisp Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and feta is the perfect fresh companion.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with warm pita or a hunk of sourdough to soak up all those flavorful juices.
- Wine Pairing: A glass of dry rosé or light red wine like Pinot Noir complements the herbs and roasted flavors beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to deepen overnight—hello, even tastier lunch tomorrow.
Freezing
Freeze the chicken and potatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain that crispy texture, or use the microwave for a faster (but softer) option.
FAQs
Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs?
Yes, you can! They’ll cook a little faster, so start checking them around the 25–30 minute mark. But if you love crispy skin, stick with bone-in, skin-on thighs.
What potatoes work best for this recipe?
Baby or new potatoes are ideal—they roast quickly and get a lovely texture. If using larger potatoes, just cut them into smaller chunks.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should be 165°F. The juices should run clear, and the skin should be golden and crisp.
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can marinate the chicken and potatoes earlier in the day and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just let it sit at room temp for about 15 minutes before roasting.
Final Thoughts
This Roasted Mediterranean Chicken Thighs & Baby Potatoes recipe brings together everything we love in a comforting dinner—bold flavors, crispy textures, and zero stress. It’s proof that weeknight meals don’t have to be boring or complicated. Give it a try, and you just might find yourself adding it to your regular dinner rotation.
PrintRoasted Mediterranean Chicken Thighs & Baby Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A flavorful and hearty dish featuring roasted chicken thighs infused with Mediterranean herbs, paired with crispy baby potatoes.
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1.5 lbs baby potatoes, halved
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, paprika, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Add chicken thighs and baby potatoes to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
- Transfer everything to a large baking dish or sheet pan, arranging the chicken skin-side up and spreading potatoes around them.
- Roast for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is golden and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F) and potatoes are tender and slightly crisp.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for extra flavor.
- Use a mix of yellow and red baby potatoes for visual appeal.
- Great served with a side of tzatziki or a simple Greek salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with potatoes
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
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