This Easy Sheet Pan Mediterranean Chicken is a real winner! Juicy chicken, fresh zucchini, and colorful veggies come together for a tasty meal that’s super simple to make.
Just toss everything on one pan, and let the oven do its magic! It’s a great way to enjoy bright flavors without a lot of hassle. Who doesn’t love easy clean-up? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish. If you prefer dark meat, feel free to use thighs. They’ll add more flavor and stay juicy!
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini brings brightness. If zucchinis aren’t available, try using yellow squash or even bell peppers for added color.
Bell Peppers: Red and yellow peppers add sweetness and crunch. Green peppers can be used, but they have a sharper taste. Choosing your favorite colors makes it fun!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin is ideal for dressing the veggies. If you’re looking for a neutral flavor, avocado oil works well too.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a tangy kick. If you’re not a fan, goat cheese or even Parmesan can work as tasty substitutes.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
To keep your chicken juicy, it’s all about the seasoning and cooking time. Here are some tips:
- Marinate the chicken with olive oil and herbs in advance if you have time. This boosts flavor!
- Make sure to check the internal temperature. Remove it from the oven once it hits 165°F (74°C) for juicy meat.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat!
With these tips, your chicken will be perfectly cooked every time! Enjoy your delicious meal!
Easy Sheet Pan Mediterranean Chicken with Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 lemon, sliced (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Feta cheese crumbles (optional)
Time Needed:
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prep, with 20-25 minutes of baking time. In about 35-40 minutes, you’ll have a healthy and delicious meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for our chicken and veggies. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to make cleaning up easy later.
2. Prepare the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful blend will be drizzled over the chicken and vegetables.
3. Arrange the Ingredients:
Place the chicken breasts in the center of the prepared sheet pan. Then, add the zucchini, red and yellow bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes around the chicken. It should look colorful and appetizing already!
4. Add the Flavor:
Drizzle your olive oil and spice mixture evenly over the chicken and vegetables. Make sure to toss the veggies gently to coat them well in the flavorful mixture.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Now it’s time to bake! Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Check that the chicken is cooked through (it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the vegetables are tender.
6. Optional Cheese Delight:
If you love feta cheese, sprinkle some crumbles over the chicken and vegetables in the last 5 minutes of baking to allow it to soften. Yummy!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take the pan out of the oven and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices if you’d like. Serve warm and enjoy the fantastic Mediterranean flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
No, it’s best to use fresh chicken for this recipe. If using frozen chicken, make sure it’s completely thawed before cooking. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, or for a quick method, place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water.
What Vegetables Can I Substitute?
You can easily customize this dish with your favorite vegetables! If you don’t have zucchini, try using asparagus, broccoli, or even carrots. Just make sure they have similar cooking times to ensure everything is evenly cooked.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or gently on the stove until heated through. Adding a splash of olive oil can help maintain moisture!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and veggies in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just toss them in the olive oil and seasoning before baking when you’re ready to cook!
