Sheet Pan Mediterranean Chicken

Mediterranean cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients, and this Sheet Pan Mediterranean Chicken is a shining example of how simple cooking can produce extraordinary results. By roasting juicy chicken thighs alongside zesty lemon-herb potatoes and fresh seasonal vegetables, you create a harmonious meal that is both satisfying and incredibly easy to prepare. This recipe is perfect for those busy evenings when you want a gourmet meal without the mountain of dishes.

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The secret to this dish is the balance of textures and the layering of aromatics. The smoky paprika and dried oregano on the chicken pair beautifully with the fresh rosemary and thyme on the potatoes. As the cherry tomatoes roast, they burst, creating a natural sauce that coats the tender zucchini and red onion. Every bite offers a different combination of Mediterranean goodness.

Ingredients

For the Chicken
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
For the Vegetables
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 1 large red onion, cut into wedges
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Lemon-Herb Potatoes
• 1 1/2 pounds baby potatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
To Serve
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges

Transfer liquids, oils, and dry ingredients cleanly into bottles and jars while cooking or baking.

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Instructions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2

In a large bowl, combine chicken thighs with olive oil, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, black pepper, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Toss to coat. Set aside to marinate while preparing the vegetables.

Step 3

In a separate bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, rosemary, parsley, thyme, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.

Step 4

Spread the potatoes evenly on one side of the sheet pan. Roast for 15 minutes.

Step 5

Meanwhile, toss zucchini, red onion, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.

Step 6

After 15 minutes, remove the sheet pan from the oven. Add marinated chicken thighs and prepared vegetables to the pan, arranging everything in a single layer.

Step 7

Return the pan to the oven and roast for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C) and the potatoes are golden and tender.

Step 8

Broil for 2–3 minutes for extra color, if desired.

Step 9

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure even cooking, try to cut your zucchini and red onion into uniform sizes. If your potatoes are on the larger side, quarter them instead of halving so they soften quickly. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for the best results.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can easily swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts, though you should check them a few minutes earlier as they can dry out faster. For a vegetarian alternative, replace the chicken with thick slices of halloumi or hearty chunks of eggplant and bell pepper. This recipe is highly adaptable to whatever seasonal vegetables you have on hand.

Serviervorschläge

This vibrant sheet pan meal is delicious on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a side of cool tzatziki or a fresh Greek salad. For a complete dining experience, serve it alongside a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the citrus notes of the lemon-herb potatoes.

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Whether you are hosting a small dinner party or prepping for a week of healthy lunches, this Sheet Pan Mediterranean Chicken is a reliable and flavorful choice. The combination of golden potatoes, juicy chicken, and roasted vegetables brings a true taste of the Mediterranean to your table with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.

Keeps spoons and utensils off counters while cooking, catching drips and keeping your stovetop clean.

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Recipe Questions

→ What is the best type of chicken to use?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for this dish because they stay juicy and absorb the flavors well. Chicken breasts can be used but may require adjusted cooking times.

→ Can the vegetables be substituted?

Yes, zucchini, red onion, and cherry tomatoes can be swapped with vegetables like eggplant or bell peppers, especially for a vegetarian variation.

→ How do lemon and herbs enhance the dish?

Lemon zest and juice add brightness and acidity, while herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano infuse aromatic depth that complements the chicken and vegetables.

→ Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?

Marinating allows the chicken to soak up garlic, herbs, and lemon flavors, enhancing tenderness and overall taste, but can be skipped for faster preparation.

→ What side dishes pair well with this meal?

Classic Mediterranean sides like tzatziki, Greek salad, or a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc pair beautifully to complement the flavors.