Name: One Pan Mediterranean Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 6 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs (3 pounds, fat trimmed and patted dry); 1 ½ teaspoons paprika (divided); 2 teaspoons kosher salt (divided); ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper (divided); 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; 1 large red onion (peeled, quartered, and sliced into ½” pieces); 2 medium zucchinis (sliced into ½” semi-circles); ¼ cup kalamata olives (pitted and roughly chopped); 2 cups cherry tomatoes (12 ounces); 6 garlic cloves (minced); ½ cup dry white wine; ¼ cup vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 2 tablespoons capers (drained); 2 teaspoons honey; ½ cup chopped fresh parsley (divided)

Print Recipe· 4.2 from 2 reviews

If you’re craving a vibrant and comforting meal that bursts with flavors and requires minimal cleanup, this One Pan Mediterranean Chicken Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Picture tender chicken thighs, perfectly crispy-skinned, swimming in a savory, colorful medley of olives, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and garlic, all harmonized by the tang of lemon and a touch of honey’s subtle sweetness. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug, effortlessly combining fresh ingredients and simple techniques to deliver a Mediterranean escape right on your dinner table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One large white plate on the right holds several pieces of raw chicken thighs with pale skin. A white bowl below it contains thick slices of purple and white red onions. To the left, a white bowl is filled with red and yellow small grape tomatoes. Above this bowl, there is a small amount of chopped green parsley in a glass bowl. A white bowl to the upper left has quartered green zucchini. Scattered around are small glass bowls holding condiments and spices: green capers, minced garlic, black pepper, dried herbs, chili powder, golden olive oil, honey, salt, and red olives. All items rest on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering fresh, wholesome ingredients is the secret to making any dish shine, and this One Pan Mediterranean Chicken Recipe is no exception. Each ingredient plays a vital role: from the crispy chicken skin providing texture to the juicy tomatoes offering sweetness, and the olives and capers injecting that signature briny punch, all coming together to create an unforgettable symphony of Mediterranean flavors.

6 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs: The star of the dish, bone-in with skin for juicy, flavorful meat and crispy texture.
1 ½ teaspoons paprika (divided): Adds a smoky, earthy warmth and beautiful color to the chicken and sauce.
2 teaspoons kosher salt (divided): Enhances all the natural flavors, perfectly balanced throughout the cooking process.
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper (divided): Brings just enough mild heat and depth to the dish.
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: For that rich Mediterranean foundation and to crisp the chicken skin.
1 large red onion: Quartered and sliced for sweet, caramelized layers that soften beautifully in the pan.
2 medium zucchinis: Sliced into half-inch semi-circles to add tender, fresh vegetable goodness.
¼ cup kalamata olives, pitted and chopped: Bursts of briny, savory flavor characteristic of Mediterranean cooking.
2 cups cherry tomatoes: Sweet, juicy, and providing a vibrant pop of red and natural sauce base.
6 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and boldness.
½ cup dry white wine: Adds acidity and complexity, elevating the sauce with subtle depth.
¼ cup vegetable broth: Keeps the pan sauce luscious and helps marry all the flavors.
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Brings brightness and a refreshing zing that lifts the entire dish.
2 teaspoons dried oregano: Essential Mediterranean herb, imparting an earthy, peppery note.
2 tablespoons capers, drained: Tiny bursts of sharp, tangy flavor that complement the olives beautifully.
2 teaspoons honey: Balances the acidity with just the right touch of sweetness.
½ cup chopped fresh parsley (divided): For a fresh, herbal finish and a burst of green color at the end.

How to Make One Pan Mediterranean Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken thighs dry to ensure the skin crisps nicely when cooked. Season generously with paprika, salt, and pepper, distributing the spices evenly. Heat the olive oil in a large wide skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, then place the chicken skin-side down. Let it cook undisturbed for about 7 minutes; this step is crucial because it builds that irresistible golden-brown crust. Flip the chicken and quickly cook the other side for 2 minutes before setting it aside. This first step develops layers of flavor you’ll savor with every bite.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

With the skillet now holding all those lovely browned bits, toss in the red onion and zucchini. Cook them gently for 6 to 8 minutes until they soften slightly and release their natural sweetness. This creates the delicious vegetable base that will soak up those flavor-packed juices from the chicken later on.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Next, it’s time to add the kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, white wine, vegetable broth, lemon juice, oregano, capers, honey, and half of the parsley into the pan along with the remaining salt, pepper, and paprika. Let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to scrape up the browned bits stuck to the skillet’s bottom—these add such incredible depth to the sauce. This step is like magic, as the sauce transforms into a rich and savory Mediterranean masterpiece.

Step 4: Simmer the Chicken

Return the chicken thighs to the pan, nestling them into the luscious sauce. Cover the skillet and allow the chicken to simmer gently for 23 to 25 minutes. This slow cooking ensures that the chicken cooks through perfectly, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F while soaking up all those vibrant Mediterranean flavors.

Step 5: Reduce the Sauce and Finish

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it temporarily and uncover the pan to let the sauce simmer for another 10 minutes. This step thickens the sauce, intensifying its flavor and consistency. Then, nestle the chicken back into the sauce, letting everything mingle just a little longer before serving.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish off your One Pan Mediterranean Chicken Recipe with the remaining fresh parsley and some lemon slices for that extra splash of color and brightness. It’s these little touches that bring the dish to life and make it as inviting on the eye as it is on the palate.

How to Serve One Pan Mediterranean Chicken Recipe

The image shows a white bowl filled with various fresh ingredients neatly layered in separate sections. There are bright red and yellow cherry tomatoes on one side, with a mound of chopped green herbs next to them. Sliced zucchini with green edges and pale centers is placed around the bowl, along with pieces of red onion and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. There is a small pile of finely chopped garlic and another pile of ground spices, beige in color. A cluster of dark purple chopped olives is also present. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. A woman's hand is seen holding the bowl from the side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley sprinkled over the dish not only adds a vibrant green contrast, but also a fresh herbal brightness that perfectly balances the richness of the chicken and sauce. Lemon slices are optional but highly recommended for squeezing over each serving, delivering a delightful citrus zing that lifts every bite.

Side Dishes

This dish is incredibly versatile and goes wonderfully alongside simple sides like fluffy couscous, buttery mashed potatoes, or crusty artisan bread to soak up that tantalizing sauce. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette would also complement the Mediterranean flavors beautifully and add a refreshing crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special dinner, serve the One Pan Mediterranean Chicken Recipe in a rustic ceramic pan or a large shallow platter, arranging the chicken and vegetables artfully and garnishing with extra olives and fresh herbs. Pair with a chilled glass of white wine or rosé to complete the Mediterranean experience and impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chicken and vegetables will continue to absorb flavors overnight, sometimes making the dish even more delicious the next day. Just be sure to reheat gently to keep the chicken moist.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, which is perfect for meal prep or saving extra for busy nights. Place cooled leftovers into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the chicken and sauce gently over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as slower reheating helps maintain moisture and flavor without drying out the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can swap chicken breasts for thighs, but bone-in, skin-on thighs are preferred for their moisture and flavor. If using breasts, watch the cooking time closely to avoid drying them out.

Is it okay to use green olives instead of kalamata olives?

Green olives will work, but kalamata olives have a richer, fruitier flavor that’s more traditional for Mediterranean dishes. If you use green olives, consider adjusting the salt slightly, as they can be quite briny.

What can I substitute for white wine in the sauce?

If you prefer not to use wine, extra vegetable broth with a splash of white wine vinegar or lemon juice can work. The key is balancing acidity and depth to keep the sauce vibrant.

Can this dish be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! The One Pan Mediterranean Chicken Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth. It’s a great option for anyone watching their gluten intake.

How do I make the chicken skin extra crispy?

Patting the chicken dry before seasoning and searing skin-side down without moving it for 7 minutes is essential. Using a heavy skillet and enough olive oil also helps ensure a beautifully crispy skin.

Final Thoughts

This One Pan Mediterranean Chicken Recipe is truly a kitchen gem, combining effortless cooking with deeply satisfying flavors that celebrate the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. It’s a reliable dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, and I promise once you make it, it’ll quickly become a cherished staple. So grab your skillet, invite some good company, and get ready to savor every juicy, saucy, wonderful bite of this delightful meal.