Juicy Roasted Chicken in Tomato Marinade

The most flavorful and juicy roasted chicken you’ll ever eat!

This Juicy Mediterranean Roasted Chicken is packed with bold flavors from a tomato-based marinade with balsamic vinegar, garlic, and warm spices. Roasted to perfection in just 35 minutes, it’s tender and flavorful and pairs beautifully with maroulosalata, Mediterranean rice pilaf, and tzatziki for a complete meal.

This is a little different from my typical go-to roasted chicken recipes because it has some tomato paste in the marinade. I usually make lemony chicken dishes, honey glazed, or even balsamic glazed chicken. However, the tomato in this reminds me of the base for traditional Greek dishes like Youvetsi or a tomato-based stew with all the warm, sweet, herby tomato flavor. The chicken is crispy on the outside, super juicy on the inside, and will become a family favorite.  

Why will this be a family favorite?

Warm, rich, sweet,

Tangy, garlicky, herby,

Flavor packed crispy,

Extra juicy, tender chicken

What do I need for this recipe?

Chicken thighs -Swap chicken thighs for drumsticks or bone-in chicken breasts—just adjust cooking time as needed.

Olive oil -your favorite delicious extra virgin olive oil to enhance the marinade.

Tomato paste -because this is the base of the marinade, be sure to get a high-quality version. Look for one that contains only tomatoes, no sugar or fillers, and has a thick, rich texture.

Garlic cloves -grated or minced to melt into the marinade.

White balsamic vinegar -I like to use this one because it’s light and has a little sweetness to offset the acidity of the tomato paste, but if you don’t have that, you can use dark balsamic vinegar or lemon with a bit of honey, which would even work.

Salt & freshly cracked black pepper -brightens all the flavors and brings them together.

Ground cinnamon -adds a subtle, warm sweetness to the sauce.

Crushed red pepper flakes -we like a little kick of heat on the back end, but you can leave this out if you prefer.

How do I prepare the pan?

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

How do I make the marinade?

Make the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, tomato paste, garlic, balsamic vinegar, salt, black pepper, cinnamon, and crushed red pepper flakes until smooth.

How long do I marinate the chicken?

Pat the chicken thighs dry and coat them evenly with the marinade. Let them sit for at least 15 minutes or up to overnight for deeper flavor.

How do I cook the chicken?

Place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown.

Does the skin get crispy?

For extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.

What’s the best way to make it a meal?

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy with maroulosalata, Mediterranean rice pilaf, and tzatziki for a delicious meal, or serve with a fresh Greek salad, roasted potatoes, or warm pita for a complete Mediterranean feast!

Can I put this in the air fryer?

I wouldn’t put it in a traditional air fryer from the start because you’ll lose a lot of the marinade, but you can cook the chicken in the oven and finish it off to crispy in the air fryer. Although, if you have an air fryer that looks like a mini oven, you can use that without sacrificing the marinade.

Do you have more tomato-based chicken dishes?

Pastitsada: Corfu Chicken in Tomato Sauce with Pasta

Skillet Chicken in Tomato & Red Pepper Sauce: Ready in an Hour!!

Kotopoulo Kokinisto: One Pan Roasted Chicken & Potatoes in a Tomato Sauce

Easy Stuffed Chicken Breast With Basil & Cheese Cooked In A Homemade Tomato Sauce

Chicken Saganaki (30 Minute Meal): Greek-Style Chicken In A Tomato & Feta Sauce

Greek Chicken Stew with French Fries: An Easy Dinner Idea

Watch the Video