Mediterranean Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner Recipe

Name: Mediterranean Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 0.25 cup extra-virgin olive oil; lemon, juiced; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 1 teaspoon dried tarragon; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon black pepper; 4 chicken thighs with skin; 1 small red onion, sliced into petals; 8 mini bell peppers, halved lengthwise and seeded; 1 pound baby potatoes, halved; 1 lemon, sliced; 0.25 cup crumbled feta cheese; 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 8 pitted kalamata olives

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs with Veggies and Feta

This easy one-pan dish features juicy chicken thighs paired with roasted vegetables, tangy feta, and briny olives for a flavorful and balanced meal. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering!

Ingredients

cup extra-virgin olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon dried tarragon
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
teaspoon black pepper
4 chicken thighs with skin
1 small red onion, sliced into petals
8 mini bell peppers, halved lengthwise and seeded
1 pound baby potatoes, halved
1 lemon, sliced
cup crumbled feta cheese
cup fresh parsley, chopped
8 pitted kalamata olives

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425F (220C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, tarragon, oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Add the chicken thighs, sliced onion, halved bell peppers, and halved baby potatoes to the bowl. Toss everything together to ensure the vegetables and chicken are evenly coated with the marinade.

Step 4: Transfer the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out in an even layer. Place the lemon slices on top of the vegetables, making sure the chicken skin remains exposed to get nice and crispy.

Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165F (74C) and the vegetables are tender.

Step 6: Once cooked, remove from the oven and top with crumbled feta cheese, chopped fresh parsley, and kalamata olives.

Step 7: Serve hot and enjoy a flavorful, hearty meal!

Recipe Tip

If you're not a fan of olives, you can easily substitute capers or chopped artichoke hearts for a different flavor profile.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 533
Total Fat: 32g (42% DV)
Saturated Fat: 8g (40% DV)
Cholesterol: 85mg (28% DV)
Sodium: 1113mg (48% DV)
Total Carbohydrate: 41g (15% DV)
Dietary Fiber: 7g (25% DV)
Total Sugars: 4g
Protein: 23g (46% DV)
Vitamin C: 72mg (80% DV)
Calcium: 166mg (13% DV)
Iron: 3mg (19% DV)
Potassium: 802mg (17% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Mediterranean Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner Recipe

Author: Soup Loving Nicole

History of the Dish

The Mediterranean Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner is a modern interpretation of Mediterranean flavors, which have been popular for centuries across the southern European countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea. The regions cuisine is known for its emphasis on fresh, simple ingredients like olive oil, fresh herbs, garlic, and citrus. The combination of chicken, olives, feta, and vegetables on a single baking sheet reflects the region's tradition of cooking wholesome, nutrient-rich meals in an easy and communal way. This dish is a fusion of flavors from Greek, Italian, and Middle Eastern cuisines, making it a globally-inspired, one-pan dinner that brings together bold, vibrant tastes in a simple and healthy way.

Regional Variations

In Greece, a similar combination of ingredients might be used in a dish called "kotopoulo me lavraki" or roasted chicken with lemon and herbs, often served with roasted vegetables like potatoes and bell peppers. In Italy, a dish called "pollo alla mediterranea" often features chicken baked with olives, tomatoes, and capers. The variations across the Mediterranean reflect the different regional uses of local produce, such as the more liberal use of lemon and oregano in Greece, or the inclusion of tomatoes and capers in Italy. However, the sheet pan dinner format is more modern, and it has gained popularity for its convenience and simplicity, while still maintaining the essence of Mediterranean cooking.

Differences from Similar Dishes

While Mediterranean chicken dishes are common, what sets the sheet pan version apart is the method of preparation. Most Mediterranean chicken recipes involve either grilling or slow roasting the chicken and vegetables separately. The sheet pan method, however, allows for everything to be cooked in one place, making cleanup easier and ensuring that the flavors of the chicken, vegetables, and herbs meld together. The use of balsamic vinegar and fresh tarragon also provides a unique twist, differentiating this dish from more traditional Mediterranean preparations, which might focus more on lemon, olive oil, and garlic.

Where It Is Typically Served

The Mediterranean Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner is perfect for a family meal or a casual dinner party. It is an ideal dish to serve during the week, as it requires minimal prep and can be made in one go. In the Mediterranean, meals like this are often shared around a table with friends and family. Its a popular choice for gatherings where food is meant to be enjoyed together. The vibrant colors and flavors make it a visually appealing dish thats suitable for both casual family dinners and more festive occasions. Additionally, this dish pairs well with sides like couscous, rice, or a simple green salad.

Fun Facts

The Mediterranean diet is often praised for its health benefits, particularly for heart health, due to its high content of olive oil, fresh vegetables, and lean proteins like chicken.
Feta cheese, a key ingredient in this dish, has been made for over 6,000 years in Greece and is now a staple in Mediterranean cooking.
Kalamatta olives, featured in this recipe, are considered a symbol of Greek culinary tradition. They are known for their rich, briny flavor that adds depth to Mediterranean dishes.
The sheet pan method of cooking is part of a larger trend in modern cooking that emphasizes minimal effort and maximum flavor. It allows busy cooks to prepare a healthy, balanced meal without the need for extensive cooking skills.

Conclusion

This Mediterranean Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner offers a delightful way to enjoy the fresh and bold flavors of the Mediterranean in a simple, easy-to-make dish. Its rich history, regional variations, and modern twist on traditional Mediterranean recipes make it a favorite for both seasoned cooks and those new to the cuisine. The combination of succulent chicken, colorful vegetables, and the tangy feta and olives will transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean in no time!

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FAQ about Mediterranean Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner Recipe

Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. However, the cooking time may be slightly shorter, so be sure to monitor the chicken to prevent overcooking.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Yes, you can freeze this dish. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.

Yes, if you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can use red wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or even lemon juice for a different flavor profile.

You can add a variety of vegetables such as zucchini, carrots, mushrooms, or asparagus. Just make sure they are cut to similar sizes for even cooking.

To add some heat, you can incorporate red pepper flakes into the marinade or add fresh chili peppers to the sheet pan before baking.

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and vegetables with the marinade up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in the refrigerator, and then bake when you're ready to serve.

This Mediterranean chicken sheet pan dinner pairs well with couscous, quinoa, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with pita bread or rice to make it a more substantial meal.

If you don’t have feta, you can substitute it with goat cheese, ricotta salata, or even a sharp Parmesan for a different flavor.

Yes, you can use regular potatoes, but they should be cut into smaller pieces to ensure they cook evenly with the other ingredients. You may need to adjust the cooking time depending on the size of the potato pieces.

Comments

Christine Rivera

08/28/2023 06:47:22 PM

This recipe is incredibly simple and bursting with flavor! I incorporated a variety of vegetables like asparagus, carrots, and mushrooms for extra goodness. I also experimented with a pre-made Balsamic Vinaigrette marinade/dressing to make it even more convenient. I will absolutely be making this dish again and highly recommend giving it a try. It's absolutely delicious!

Gary King

03/24/2023 11:42:34 AM

Review rewritten: This dish turned out fantastic! I increased the amount of sauce, allowing the chicken and vegetables to marinate in the fridge for a few hours before cooking. I replaced regular potatoes with frozen diced sweet potatoes, and they turned out great. I will certainly be making this dish again!

Anna Davis

12/22/2024 04:17:18 PM

This recipe is a hit with my family and has become a weekly favorite! I've followed the instructions as written but also experimented with different vegetables and vinegars. The feedback is always fantastic, and there are never any leftovers. A couple of tips that have worked well for me: 1) I use a baking dish to fit more vegetables, and 2) I layer thick slices of red onion at the bottom, then add the vegetables and chicken on top. This method ensures the chicken skin stays crispy, the vegetables are perfectly cooked without getting soggy, and the juices at the bottom keep the chicken moist.

Raymond Campbell

03/22/2024 04:50:02 AM

This dish was absolutely delightful! I stuck to the recipe as written, with the only tweaks being the use of freshly picked tarragon from my garden and herb-infused feta cheese. I decided to marinate the chicken in the herb and oil blend a couple of hours ahead of time before adding the vegetables. I'm already eager to recreate this dish very soon.

Dorothy Baker

08/27/2023 10:35:13 AM

I used 6 large chicken thighs and doubled the marinade for this recipe. I also added carrots and celery, swapped baby potatoes for sweet potatoes, and baked everything in multiple pans due to the quantity. After letting it cool, I shredded the chicken and combined everything back together. It was delicious the first night and even more flavorful as leftovers.

Ashley Martinez

07/20/2024 02:37:45 AM

Fantastic! My husband absolutely loved this dish, although he wished there was more chicken in it. Next time, I'll use 6 thighs instead of the original amount. Following advice from other reviews, I marinated the chicken in the sauce for 6 hours in the refrigerator and added the chopped veggies during the last hour. As an extra touch, I included quartered mushrooms and 3 cloves of smashed garlic, which added great flavor. Doubling the sauce is unnecessary unless you're doubling the recipe. This dish pairs well with couscous or brown rice as a side. Overall, a delicious and satisfying meal.

Matthew Ramirez

02/15/2023 01:43:23 PM

I prepared this dish tonight and my husband and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I made a couple of adjustments based on the ingredients I had on hand: I marinated the chicken in a ziplock bag with Balsamic vinaigrette dressing about an hour before cooking, substituted Italian seasoning for parsley, included zucchini and sliced bell peppers instead of mini peppers. I followed the remaining steps of the recipe as instructed. The outcome was fantastic! Thank you for sharing this recipe!

Jerry Taylor

10/03/2023 09:09:32 AM

The flavors were not only amazing, but the dish also looked stunning with a burst of vibrant colors! To switch things up from using potatoes (which we had recently had a few times), I opted for zucchini chunks instead. I increased the amount of red onion by threefold—so deliciously sweet after roasting. Following a tip from another reviewer, I added only half of the lemon juice specified in the liquid mix. If you enjoy Greek or Mediterranean cuisine, this recipe is a definite winner!

Virginia Williams

03/02/2023 05:58:54 AM

Absolutely delicious! My husband requests this dish every week! I increase the marinade portion (excluding the tarragon which we find too overpowering) and let the chicken marinate for a couple of hours. I also include halved baby potatoes and onions in the marinade an hour before baking. I highly recommend this recipe!

Jerry Lopez

11/05/2023 01:52:35 AM

Absolutely loved it! My daughter, who is usually picky with her meals, went for seconds. I added artichoke hearts, opted for chicken breast, and doubled the marinade. This dish is definitely going to be a regular in our meal rotation. Quick and easy to prepare, and the flavor is outstanding!

Patrick Walker

01/29/2023 07:55:40 AM

Extremely simple and incredibly tasty!

Jeffrey Roberts

09/17/2023 11:26:12 AM

Review Rewritten: This dish was absolutely amazing! It was incredibly flavorful and simple to prepare. I decided to double the sauce and substituted balsamic vinegar with a generous dash of honey and a splash of apple cider vinegar. The replacement added a hint of sweetness that I really enjoyed.

Brenda Rivera

01/17/2024 04:59:03 AM

One of the things I really appreciate about this recipe is that all the preparation can be done in advance, allowing me to spend time with my guests without any last-minute rush. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed it, and I even gave a printed copy of the recipe to my friend to take home.

Sharon Sanchez

08/29/2022 06:53:06 PM

Decent, but not outstanding.

Cynthia Lewis

10/08/2024 04:53:27 PM

I substituted zucchini for potatoes and marinated it overnight. The dish turned out delicious!

Katherine Martinez

02/08/2024 02:57:46 PM

Excellent! I plan to enhance it with mushrooms and increase the amount of potatoes next time.

Laura Rivera

10/29/2023 10:37:50 PM

I baked the potatoes on a separate sheet with lemon slices on top. I doubled the amount of skinless, boneless chicken thighs and marinated them in Litehouse marinade. Overall, I would rate this recipe 10/10 - it required some prep work but was easy to make and everyone enjoyed it.

Gary Evans

04/11/2023 04:03:31 AM

Substituted capers for olives and omitted the potatoes. Delicious!

Tyler White

04/05/2025 11:52:16 AM

Delicious! Make sure to dice the potatoes small and remove the chicken bones, cutting the meat into bite-sized pieces before serving.

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audio version

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Mediterranean Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner Recipe