
This Mediterranean chicken dish has been my go-to for busy weeknights and casual dinner parties alike The vibrant colors and bold flavors never fail to impress while keeping cleanup minimal with just one pan
- avocado oil: High smoke point makes it ideal for roasting while adding healthy fats
- white wine vinegar: Adds acidity to balance the richness look for unoaked varieties
- garlic powder: Provides consistent flavor without burning that fresh garlic might
- ground coriander: Essential Mediterranean spice with citrusy notes buy whole seeds and grind for maximum flavor
- bonein skinon chicken thighs: Stays juicier than breasts during roasting the skin crisps beautifully
- frozen artichoke hearts: Frozen maintains better texture than canned thaw before using
- fresh asparagus: Look for firm spears with tight purpletinged buds
- fresh dill: Parsley or basil work too but dill complements the artichokes perfectly
- Oven preparation:
- Heat your oven to 375°F and line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper This prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless
- Marinade creation:
- In a large mixing bowl vigorously whisk together the oil vinegar and all dried spices until fully emulsified The marinade should coat the back of a spoon
- Chicken preparation:
- Pat chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels this helps the skin crisp properly then thoroughly coat each piece in marinade making sure to get under the skin
- Initial roasting:
- Arrange chicken skin side up on prepared sheet leaving space between pieces Bake undisturbed for 20 minutes to develop golden skin
- Vegetable addition:
- Remove pan from oven and carefully arrange lemon slices artichokes and asparagus around chicken The pan juices will flavor the vegetables
- Vegetable coating:
- Gently toss vegetables in the pan juices then drizzle with remaining oil A silicone spatula works best to avoid tearing the parchment
- Final roasting:
- Return chicken to pan nestling it among vegetables skin side up Continue baking until chicken reaches 165°F internally about 1520 more minutes
- Resting and finishing:
- Let rest 810 minutes to redistribute juices then shower with fresh herbs The residual heat will gently wilt the herbs

Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days The flavors actually improve overnight Reheat gently in a 300°F oven to maintain texture
Ingredient Substitutions
Boneless thighs work but reduce cooking time by 5 minutes Canned artichokes can substitute if added only for the last 10 minutes of cooking
Serving Suggestions
Serve over lemoninfused couscous or with warm pita bread to soak up the delicious pan juices A simple cucumber salad makes a refreshing side
Cultural Context
This dish embodies the sunny flavors of coastal Mediterranean cooking where artichokes grow wild and meals celebrate seasonal produce with minimal fuss

Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use fresh artichokes instead of frozen?
While possible, fresh artichokes require significant prep work. Frozen artichoke hearts are recommended for their convenience and consistent texture in this dish. If using fresh, prepare by removing tough outer leaves and choke before quartering.
- → What can I substitute for avocado oil?
Extra virgin olive oil makes an excellent substitute, maintaining the Mediterranean flavor profile. For high-heat roasting, grapeseed or refined coconut oil would also work well.
- → How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F internally and juices run clear. Bone-in thighs remain juicy even when cooked slightly beyond this temperature, making them forgiving for home cooks.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance for deeper flavor. For best texture, add vegetables just before baking. Leftovers reheat well and make excellent wraps or salad toppings.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
This Mediterranean chicken shines with simple sides like herbed rice, warm pita, or a crisp green salad. For heartier meals, serve with roasted potatoes or couscous to soak up the flavorful pan juices.
- → Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless thighs work well but reduce cooking time by 5-8 minutes. The bones add flavor and help retain moisture, so consider increasing spices slightly if using boneless.