The aroma of zesty lemon, briny olives, and perfectly roasted veggies wafts through the air as you imagine a dinner that’s both vibrant and nourishing. Picture biting into juicy chicken infused with Mediterranean flavors, surrounded by colorful vegetables that are almost too pretty to eat—almost. This Sheet Pan Mediterranean Lemon-Olive Chicken & Veggies recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that makes your taste buds dance like no one is watching.
Remember those evenings when dinner felt like an Olympic event? You know, the ones where you juggle pots, pans, and your sanity? Well, fear not! This recipe simplifies your life while still delivering a stunning dish that impresses family and friends. Cook this dish for a cozy weeknight dinner or serve it at your next gathering. Trust me; the crowd will be asking for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This amazing Mediterranean chicken dish combines ease of preparation with deep flavors that transport you to a sun-soaked terrace in Greece.
- The vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
- It’s versatile enough to fit any occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings.
- Plus, cleanup is a breeze with just one pan to wash!
Ingredients for Sheet Pan Mediterranean Lemon-Olive Chicken & Veggies
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor; they add that aromatic kick we all love.
- Bell Peppers: Use a mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers to give your dish visual appeal and sweetness.
- Red Onion: This adds a slight tanginess and sweetness when roasted—it’s like nature’s candy!
- Cherry Tomatoes: Their burst of flavor adds freshness; look for plump ones that are bright in color.
For the Marinade:
- Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil infuses richness into the chicken and veggies.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is key; it brightens the flavors beautifully.
- Dried Oregano: This herb brings out that classic Mediterranean vibe—think sun-drenched landscapes!
- Kalamata Olives: Pitted olives provide briny goodness; just be sure they’re not expired (yikes!).
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Sheet Pan Mediterranean Lemon-Olive Chicken & Veggies
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). While you’re waiting for it to heat up, grab a large baking sheet and line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare Your Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, dried oregano, minced garlic, and season with salt and pepper. This marinade is like liquid sunshine!
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Place your chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or bowl and pour half of the marinade over them. Seal or cover tightly and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—or longer if you have time.
Step 4: Chop Your Veggies
While your chicken is marinating away in its sunny bath, chop up your bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Just don’t chop off any fingers—those are not an ingredient!
Step 5: Combine Everything on the Sheet Pan
Once marinated, take out the chicken and place it on one side of your prepared baking sheet. Scatter your chopped veggies around it. Drizzle everything with the remaining marinade (don’t waste any of that deliciousness!).
Step 6: Roast Until Perfect
Pop your sheet pan into the preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (75°C) and veggies are tender. Pro tip: If you want caramelization on those veggies (who doesn’t?), broil them for an additional couple of minutes.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every bite of this delightful Sheet Pan Mediterranean Lemon-Olive Chicken & Veggies!
You Must Know
- This amazing Greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating your chicken to soak up all those delectable Mediterranean flavors. While the chicken absorbs the goodness, chop your veggies and preheat the oven. Finally, arrange everything on a sheet pan and let the oven do its magic.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out veggies based on what’s in your fridge—zucchini, bell peppers, or even asparagus work beautifully. You can also experiment with different herbs or spices like oregano, thyme, or even a pinch of chili flakes for a kick.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, use the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to ensure everything stays juicy and flavorful.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Marinate your chicken overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
- Always cut your veggies into uniform sizes for even cooking.
- Don’t skip preheating; it helps achieve that perfect golden finish on your dish.
I remember my first time making this Sheet Pan Mediterranean Lemon-Olive Chicken & Veggies. My friends raved about it so much that I wondered if I’d accidentally stumbled onto some secret culinary talent!
FAQs
What are the main ingredients in Sheet Pan Mediterranean Lemon-Olive Chicken & Veggies?
The main ingredients for Sheet Pan Mediterranean Lemon-Olive Chicken & Veggies include boneless chicken thighs, assorted vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion, olives, garlic, and fresh herbs. The dish is seasoned with lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to enhance the Mediterranean flavors. This combination creates a deliciously vibrant meal that is both healthy and satisfying.
How long does it take to prepare Sheet Pan Mediterranean Lemon-Olive Chicken & Veggies?
Preparing Sheet Pan Mediterranean Lemon-Olive Chicken & Veggies typically takes about 15 minutes. Cooking time in the oven is around 30 to 35 minutes at 400°F (200°C). This means you can have a flavorful and nutritious meal ready in under an hour. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet wholesome.
Can I customize the veggies in this recipe?
Absolutely! One of the great things about Sheet Pan Mediterranean Lemon-Olive Chicken & Veggies is its versatility. You can easily substitute or add any seasonal vegetables you enjoy. Options like asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or even broccoli work well in this dish. Just ensure that all vegetables are cut to similar sizes for even cooking.
Is Sheet Pan Mediterranean Lemon-Olive Chicken & Veggies healthy?
Yes! This recipe is loaded with lean protein from chicken and plenty of vitamins from fresh vegetables. The use of olive oil adds healthy fats that are beneficial for your heart. Plus, it’s naturally low in carbohydrates, making it a great choice for various diets. Enjoy this nutritious meal without compromising flavor.
Conclusion for Sheet Pan Mediterranean Lemon-Olive Chicken & Veggies
Sheet Pan Mediterranean Lemon-Olive Chicken & Veggies offers a delightful mix of flavors while being incredibly easy to prepare. With just one pan, you can enjoy a balanced meal rich in protein and vegetables that everyone will love. This recipe suits various dietary preferences and allows for customization with different veggies. Enjoy a wholesome dinner that saves time and maximizes taste!
Sheet Pan Mediterranean Lemon-Olive Chicken & Veggies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
Experience a vibrant, one-pan meal bursting with Mediterranean flavors that’s simple to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 medium red onion, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons (about 1/4 cup)
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives
Instructions
- 1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- 2. Prepare Your Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- 3. Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or bowl and pour half of the marinade over them. Seal or cover tightly and let marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
- 4. Chop Your Veggies: While the chicken is marinating, chop the bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- 5. Combine Everything on the Sheet Pan: Once marinated, place chicken on one side of the prepared baking sheet. Scatter chopped veggies around it and drizzle with the remaining marinade.
- 6. Roast Until Perfect: Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (75°C) and veggies are tender. For extra caramelization on veggies, broil for an additional couple of minutes if desired.
- 7. Serve: Plate your meal and drizzle with sauce from the pan before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with veggies (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Feel free to customize vegetables based on availability—zucchini and asparagus are great additions. Marinating overnight enhances flavor infusion. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for best results.
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