Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s bursting with Mediterranean flavors? Imagine succulent chicken thighs, perfectly stuffed with a savory blend of olives, feta, and garlic, all baked to golden perfection. This Olive Stuffed Chicken Thighs recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds but also impresses your guests with its gourmet flair! With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Dive into the recipe and discover how easy it is to bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup pitted olives, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure the chicken cooks evenly and develops a nice golden color.
- Prepare the stuffing by combining the chopped olives, minced garlic, crumbled feta cheese, dried oregano, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Take the bone-in chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve a crispy skin when cooked.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully create a pocket in each chicken thigh by slicing horizontally along the side, making sure not to cut all the way through. This pocket will hold the delicious stuffing.
- Stuff each chicken thigh with the olive mixture, ensuring that you fill them generously. Use toothpicks if necessary to secure the opening and keep the stuffing inside during cooking.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the stuffed chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Once the chicken thighs are nicely browned, flip them over so the skin side is facing up. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
- Bake the chicken thighs in the oven for about 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear. This ensures that the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
- Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender and flavorful.
- Serve the olive stuffed chicken thighs warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your Mediterranean-inspired meal!
Tips
- Choose Quality Olives: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality pitted olives. Kalamata or green olives work wonderfully in this recipe, adding a rich, briny taste.
- Patience is Key: Make sure to let the chicken rest after baking. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.
- Don’t Skip the Searing: Searing the chicken thighs skin-side down before baking is essential for achieving that delicious crispy skin. It also adds a depth of flavor to the dish.
- Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to mix in other herbs like thyme or rosemary with the stuffing for an extra layer of flavor. Fresh herbs can also be used as a garnish for a vibrant finish.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your Olive Stuffed Chicken Thighs with a refreshing salad or some roasted vegetables to create a well-rounded Mediterranean meal that your guests will rave about.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 140mg
