Name: Mediterranean Chicken and Chickpea Skillet
Prep time: 35 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 large red bell pepper, sliced; 1 small red onion, sliced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp ground cumin; 1 lemon (zest and juice); 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper, to taste

Mediterranean Chicken and Chickpea Skillet

SavoryVanilla0661

This Mediterranean Chicken and Chickpea Skillet is a vibrant, protein-packed dinner that comes together in about 35 minutes. Brining the chicken ensures every bite stays tender and juicy—an easy step that takes this meal from good to great. Chickpeas add both heartiness and extra protein, while aromatic spices, lemon, and fresh herbs give it classic Mediterranean flair. Served straight from the skillet, it’s satisfying, colorful, and perfect for sharing with family or friends. With minimal prep and accessible ingredients, it’s a weeknight winner you’ll want to make again and again!

Ingredients

Instructions

Prepare a 6% brine solution (about 3 tbsp salt per quart of water) and submerge chicken thighs for 15 minutes while prepping vegetables. Drain and pat chicken dry.
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs, season with salt, pepper, oregano, and smoked paprika. Sear until golden on both sides (about 3-4 minutes per side). Remove to a plate.
In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil. Sauté red onion and bell pepper until softened and lightly caramelized, about 5-6 minutes.
Stir in garlic and cumin; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Return chicken to skillet. Add chickpeas and half the lemon zest. Squeeze lemon juice over everything. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and flavors meld.
Scatter fresh parsley and remaining lemon zest over the skillet before serving. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.