1-Step 1: Prepare the Spice Mixture and Rub the Chicken Start by mixing the spice blend: 2 teaspoons sweet paprika, 2 teaspoons dried oregano, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon grated nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Rub this evenly over all 8 skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs. Let the flavors sink in while you prep the marinade. This dry rub sets the base for bold lemon garlic chicken thighs taste.

2-Step 2: Marinate the Spiced Chicken In a bowl, whisk 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil with 4 tablespoons lemon juice. Pour over the chicken, coating each piece well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes or up to 8 hours. Short marinate works for quick meals; longer builds deeper flavor in your olive oil herb roasted Mediterranean chicken thighs recipe. Flip halfway if time allows.

3-Step 3: Preheat and Sear the Chicken Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab an oven-safe skillet and add 2 tablespoons cooking olive oil over medium-high heat. Place chicken skin-side down. Sear undisturbed for 7 to 8 minutes until skin crisps and browns. This step locks in juices for tender roasted Mediterranean chicken. Flip thighs and cook 5 more minutes on stovetop. Skin-on chicken thighs shine here with golden crispiness.

4-Step 4: Bake to Perfection Slide the skillet into the oven. Bake 20 to 25 minutes until internal temp hits 165°F (74°C). Use a thermometer for safety. Bone-in keeps meat juicy. For weeknight Mediterranean chicken thighs dinner, this one-pan method saves cleanup.

5-Step 5: Finish and Serve Wear oven gloves to remove skillet. Transfer chicken to a plate. Mix finishing sauce: 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, 4 tablespoons lemon juice, and 2 chopped garlic cloves. Spoon over hot thighs. Garnish with chopped parsley. Serve with rice, salad, or roasted potatoes. The finishing sauce of olive oil, lemon, and garlic brightens the dish; also great drizzled over vegetables or salad. Pairs well for one-pan Mediterranean chicken thighs and potatoes too. For dietary tweaks, use boneless chicken thighs in Step 1 for quicker cook. This easy oven-baked Mediterranean chicken thighs version suits busy schedules.