If you crave crispy, golden roast chicken then you need to try this roast recipe.
Generations of cooks from Greece to Morocco have perfected the art of infusing chicken with fragrant herbs, citrus, and olive oil. The result? A roast so tender and flavorful, it practically melts in your mouth.

But here’s the secret most people miss—marination isn’t just about flavor; it’s about texture, too. The right blend of yogurt, garlic, and lemon tenderizes the meat while ensuring a golden, crackly skin when roasted. And with just a few pantry staples, you can transform an ordinary roast into something truly spectacular…

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this Mediterranean Chicken Roast is a game-changer. Let’s dive in!

Why This Mediterranean Roast Chicken Stands Out

• The Ultimate Marinade Hack
  • The secret? A mix of yogurt, citrus, and spices that breaks down fibers for ultra-juicy meat.
  • Why most people get it wrong—over-marinating can ruin texture!
  • The best marination time? 4–12 hours for peak tenderness…
• Crispy Skin Without Drying the Meat
  • The trick is a two-step roasting method—high heat for golden crispiness, then low heat for juiciness.
  • Why you should pat the chicken dry before roasting (hint: it helps with caramelization).
  • A drizzle of olive oil at the end locks in moisture while enhancing crispiness…
• The Right Spices Make All the Difference
  • Skip the generic seasoning blends! Instead, try za’atar, sumac, or smoked paprika for authentic depth.
  • One spice that’s often overlooked but makes a huge impact—cinnamon (just a pinch!).
  • The mistake of using too much dried oregano—why fresh herbs should be your go-to…
• Roasting Temperature Secrets
  • Start at 220°C (425°F) for the first 20 minutes, then lower to 180°C (350°F) for even cooking.
  • Why checking internal temperature (74°C/165°F) is more reliable than just eyeballing it.
  • The resting period: letting the chicken sit for 10 minutes keeps juices locked in…
• Side Dishes That Elevate This Roast
  • Want a full Mediterranean feast? Pair it with lemony roasted potatoes or fluffy couscous.
  • The surprising addition of a garlicky yogurt sauce takes it to another level.
  • A simple chopped salad (tomato, cucumber, red onion) adds the perfect fresh contrast…

Roast Chicken Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

For the Chicken:

• 1 whole chicken (1.5–2 kg / 3.3–4.4 lbs) – preferably free-range for better flavor
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil – cold-pressed for the best aroma
• 2 tsp salt – flaky sea salt or kosher salt works best
• 1 tsp black pepper – freshly ground for a more robust flavor
• 1 tsp smoked paprika – adds a deep, earthy warmth
• 1 tsp ground cumin – enhances the savory, nutty notes
• 1 tsp ground coriander – brings out citrusy undertones
• ½ tsp cinnamon – a secret touch for depth and warmth
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme or oregano leaves – finely chopped
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced – brightness and acidity for balance
• 4 garlic cloves, minced – for aromatic depth

For the Marinade:

• 200g / ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt – tenderizes the chicken and adds richness
• 2 tbsp olive oil – for smooth texture and flavor infusion
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar – enhances the tangy profile
• 1 tbsp honey – a touch of sweetness for balance

For Roasting:

• 1 onion, quartered – caramelizes beautifully in the pan
• 1 lemon, quartered – infuses the juices with brightness
• Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional) – for extra aromatic notes

For Garnish & Serving:

• Fresh parsley or cilantro – adds color and freshness
• Extra lemon wedges – for squeezing over the roasted chicken

How to Make Mediterranean Roast Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
2. Stir in salt, black pepper, paprika, cumin, coriander, and cinnamon until you get a smooth, thick marinade.

Aroma Check: You should smell a blend of tangy, earthy, and slightly sweet scents—this is the secret to deep Mediterranean flavors!

Step 2: Coat & Marinate the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Gently loosen the skin around the breast and thighs using your fingers (this helps the marinade penetrate deeper).
3. Rub the marinade generously all over the chicken, including under the skin.
4. Place the chicken in a bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 4 hours (or up to 12 hours for maximum flavor).

Time-Saving Tip: If you’re in a rush, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes—it won’t be as intense, but it still works!

Step 3: Prep for Roasting

1. Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F).
2. Arrange the quartered onion, lemon wedges, and rosemary in the bottom of a roasting pan.
3. Place a roasting rack on top (if available) and set the marinated chicken breast-side up.

Step 4: Start Roasting for Crispy Skin

1. Drizzle 2 tbsp of olive oil over the chicken to help crisp the skin.
2. Roast at 220°C (425°F) for 20 minutes—this will create a golden crust.
3. Lower the temperature to 180°C (350°F) and continue roasting for 50–60 minutes, basting occasionally with pan juices.

Pro Tip: If the skin starts browning too quickly, tent the chicken loosely with foil!

Step 5: Check for Doneness

1. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh (without touching the bone). It should read 74°C (165°F).
2. If juices run clear when you pierce the meat, it’s ready!

Step 6: Rest & Serve

1. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. This keeps the juices inside!
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve with extra lemon wedges.

Best Served With:

• Lemony roasted potatoes
• Warm pita bread & hummus
• A simple Mediterranean salad

Roast Chicken: Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping the Marinade Time

• Rushing the marinade process means the flavors won’t fully penetrate the chicken.
• Solution: Let it marinate for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight for deeper flavor and tenderness.

2. Not Drying the Chicken Before Roasting

• Extra moisture on the skin prevents crispiness.
• Solution: Always pat the chicken dry before roasting and drizzle olive oil on top for the perfect golden crust.

3. Roasting at One Temperature Only

• High heat throughout can dry out the meat, while low heat alone won’t give you crispy skin.
• Solution: Start at 220°C (425°F) for 20 minutes, then lower to 180°C (350°F) for even cooking.

4. Forgetting to Rest the Chicken

• Slicing too soon lets the juices escape, making the meat drier.
• Solution: Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before cutting into it.

5. Overcooking the Chicken

• Dry, tough chicken happens when you cook beyond 74°C (165°F).
• Solution: Use a meat thermometer and remove the chicken as soon as it reaches the right temperature.

Roast Chicken: Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken pieces instead of a whole chicken?

Yes! You can use bone-in, skin-on thighs or drumsticks for a quicker cook time. Reduce roasting time to 35–45 minutes, checking for an internal temp of 74°C (165°F).

2. What if I don’t have Greek yogurt for the marinade?

No problem! Substitute it with plain whole-milk yogurt, buttermilk, or even coconut yogurt for a dairy-free option. The key is acidity to tenderize the meat.

3. Why is my chicken skin not crispy?

This happens if the chicken is too wet before roasting. Always pat it dry, avoid excess marinade on the skin, and roast at high heat first (220°C/425°F) to get that golden, crispy finish.

4. Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?

Yes! Set your air fryer to 190°C (375°F) and cook for about 45–50 minutes, flipping halfway through. Make sure to check for doneness with a meat thermometer.

5. How do I store and reheat leftovers?

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10–15 minutes, or use an air fryer for a crispier texture.

6. What are the best side dishes to serve with this?

Classic Mediterranean sides like roasted potatoes, tzatziki, hummus, couscous, or a fresh Greek salad pair beautifully!

Mastering the Mediterranean Chicken Roast is all about bold flavors, the perfect marinade, and a crispy-yet-juicy finish. With the right spices, roasting techniques, and a little patience, you’ll create a dish that’s better than any restaurant’s! Whether you serve it with roasted potatoes, pita, or a fresh salad, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

And if you are craving more mouthwatering recipes? Check out our ultimate guide here.