Mediterranean Chicken Thighs with Bell Peppers

Mediterranean Chicken Thighs with Bell Peppers

Flavorful chicken thighs cooked with bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes, seasoned with Mediterranean herbs and lemon.

2 servings
Prep: 12 min • Cook: 28 min
Easy

Ingredients

    Equipment Needed

    • Large skillet (oven-safe if possible)
    • Chef's knife
    • Cutting board
    • Lemon juicer (optional)

    Nutrition (per serving)

    Calories

    500

    Protein

    40g

    Carbs

    20g

    Fat

    30g

    Instructions

    1. 1

      Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

      ⏱️ 5 minutes

      Technique: preheating

    2. 2

      In a large skillet (oven-safe preferred, or transfer to baking dish later), heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, basil, and oregano.

      ⏱️ 2 minutes

      Technique: heating, seasoning

    3. 3

      Sear the chicken thighs for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. They don't need to be cooked through at this point.

      ⏱️ 4-6 minutes

      Technique: searing

    4. 4

      Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil to the skillet.

      ⏱️ 1 minute

      Technique: removing, adding

    5. 5

      Add the sliced bell pepper and onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

      ⏱️ 5 minutes

      Technique: sautéing

    6. 6

      Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

      ⏱️ 30 seconds

      Technique: sautéing

    7. 7

      Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for another 2 minutes, until they start to soften and release their juices.

      ⏱️ 2 minutes

      Technique: cooking

    8. 8

      Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them among the vegetables. Pour the lemon juice over the chicken and vegetables.

      ⏱️ 1 minute

      Technique: combining

    9. 9

      Transfer the skillet (or baking dish) to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

      ⏱️ 15-20 minutes

      Technique: baking

    10. 10

      Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil (optional).

      ⏱️ 1 minute

      Technique: plating

    💡 Chef's Tips

    Serve over rice, couscous, or alongside a simple salad.

    ⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

    • Overcooking the chicken will make it dry.
    • Not searing the chicken first will result in less flavor.
    • Using too much lemon juice can make the dish too tart.

    Why Easy?

    ✓ What makes it easier:

    • Simple ingredients
    • Easy oven baking
    • Basic knife skills

    ! What requires attention:

    • None