Extra Virgin Olive Oil & Mediterranean Chicken

This Mediterranean chicken recipe cooked in extra virgin olive oil is perfectly spiced, full of flavour, and pairs beautifully with lemon roasted potatoes.

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Extra Virgin Olive Oil & Mediterranean Chicken
  • Serving Amount

    Amount

    4

  • Cooking Time

    Time

    30 Mins

  • Type of recipe

    Course

    Main Dishes

Updated February 12th 2026

A Classic Mediterranean Chicken Dish

Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is a central ingredient in Mediterranean cooking, valued for its flavour, balance and versatility. Cooking Mediterranean chicken in extra virgin olive oil enhances the natural spices and citrus notes in this dish while helping create a rich, well-rounded finish.

Cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil retains the characteristics of the olives from which it is made, contributing both flavour and quality to everyday meals.

Chicken is a versatile and widely enjoyed ingredient in Mediterranean cooking, pairing beautifully with citrus, herbs and warming spices.

Combined with fresh ingredients like lemon juice, paprika, oregano, and extra virgin olive oil, this Mediterranean chicken recipe offers a balanced and satisfying meal — a simple way to enjoy Mediterranean-inspired cooking at home.

Mediterranean Chicken Recipe With Olive Oil

This Mediterranean chicken recipe cooked in extra virgin olive oil is perfectly spiced, full of flavour, and pairs beautifully with lemon roasted potatoes. Inspired by the principles of the Mediterranean Diet, it delivers exceptional flavour inspired by Mediterranean cooking traditions.

Key Points At A Glance

  • Serves 4
  • Mediterranean-style spiced chicken
  • Uses extra virgin olive oil for marinating and searing
  • Oven-finished for crisp skin and tender meat
  • Pairs well with lemon potatoes or salad
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Ingredients

Total

16
  1. 8 Chicken Thighs
  2. 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oi to sear the chicken
  3. Freshly chopped Parsley, to garnish

Marinade

  1. 4 tbsp of Morocco Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  2. 4 tbsp Lemon Juice
  1. 2 teaspoons of Sweet Paprika
  2. 2 teaspoons of Dried Oregano
  3. 1 teaspoon Cumin
  4. 1/2 teaspoon Coriander
  5. 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  6. 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  7. 1/2 teaspoon grated Nutmeg
  8. 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground Pepper
  1. 4 tbsp of Morocco Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  2. 4 tbsp of Lemon Juice
  3. 2 cloves of garlic, chopped

Instructions

Total

14
  1. Place the chicken either in a dish that can accommodate all the pieces or in a ziplock bag
  2. In a bowl, combine all the spice mixture ingredients and mix well
  3. Rub the chicken with the spices all over
  4. In a separate bowl, combine extra virgin olive oil with lemon juice
  5. Pour the marinade over the chicken and distribute evenly to make sure that all the pieces are well covered with the spices and the marinade
  6. Marinate the Mediterranean chicken in a refrigerator for at least 20 minutes, or up to 8 hours
  7. Preheat your oven to 350F
  8. Preheat an oven-proof skillet and once hot, add 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
  9. Add the chicken, skin side down, and do not move it for 7-8 minutes (until nicely seared and browned)
  10. Flip the chicken and cook for another 5 minutes
  11. Transfer the skillet into a hot oven and cook the chicken for 20-25 minutes, until the internal temperature shows 165F
  12. Carefully remove the skillet from the oven (using oven-proof gloves)
  13. Place the Mediterranean chicken on a serving plate and spoon over the finishing sauce on all the chicken pieces
  14. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve

Morocco Gold - An extra virgin olive oil that has great taste, tradition, and health properties

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From The Larder

Why Use Extra Virgin Olive Oil In Mediterranean Chicken?

Extra virgin olive oil works particularly well in marinades, helping spices and citrus flavours coat the chicken evenly. It also supports browning during searing and adds balance to the finishing sauce.

If you would like to learn more about cooking confidently with extra virgin olive oil, our guides explain how EVOO can be used across a wide range of everyday dishes.

Cooking & Serving Tips

  • Marinating: Allow at least 20 minutes for flavour to develop.
  • Searing: Do not move the chicken while browning to achieve a crisp skin.
  • Serving: Serve with roasted potatoes, rice or a simple Mediterranean salad.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days.

FAQs About Mediterranean Chicken

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes. Adjust cooking time accordingly to prevent overcooking.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

A minimum of 20 minutes is recommended, but up to 8 hours will deepen flavour.

Why use extra virgin olive oil in the marinade?

Extra virgin olive oil helps distribute spices evenly and supports browning during cooking.

Further Reading:

For more mouth-wateringly tempting recipes which make the most of your Morocco Gold extra virgin olive oil flavours check out our full  recipe section here.

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