This Easy Sheet Pan Mediterranean Chicken with Zucchini is a one-pan wonder! Tender chicken and crisp zucchini come together with bright flavors from olives, tomatoes, and herbs.
You’ll love how easy it is to prepare. Just toss everything on a sheet pan, roast, and enjoy! Plus, less cleanup means more time for second helpings. Who doesn’t love that? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are easy to work with, but you can swap them for thighs if you prefer juiciness. They cook well and won’t dry out as easily.
Zucchini: I love using medium zucchinis for their tender texture. If zucchinis are hard to find, consider yellow squash or even bell peppers as a colorful alternative.
Cherry Tomatoes: These provide a burst of sweetness. If you can’t find them, any small tomato variety will do, or grape tomatoes are a good substitute.
Kalamata Olives: These olives add a briny flavor to the dish. You can substitute them with green olives or even capers if you want a different dimension.
Feta Cheese: Adding crumbled feta at the end gives a creamy finish. If you’re avoiding dairy, try a vegan feta or simply skip it for a lighter take.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
The chicken’s juiciness comes from properly seasoning and cooking it. Brushing the chicken with an olive oil mix infuses flavor and keeps it moist. For added tenderness, let the chicken marinate in the olive oil mix for at least 30 minutes before roasting, if you have the time.
- Preheat your oven thoroughly, so the chicken cooks evenly.
- Aim for golden-brown chicken by not overcrowding the pan; give everything some space!
- Use a meat thermometer to check if it’s reached 165°F (75°C) for perfect doneness.
Easy Sheet Pan Mediterranean Chicken with Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Vegetables:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: crumbled feta cheese for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to cook, giving you a total time of around 40 minutes. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures everything cooks evenly. Prepare a large sheet pan by lining it with parchment paper or giving it a light greasing.
2. Mix the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This flavorful mix will enhance the taste of your chicken and veggies.
3. Arrange Chicken and Vegetables:
Place the chicken breasts on the prepared sheet pan. Surround them with the sliced zucchinis, halved cherry tomatoes, red onion slices, and Kalamata olives. Make sure everything is evenly spread out for even cooking.
4. Drizzle and Toss:
Pour the olive oil and herb mixture over the chicken and vegetables. Use your hands or a spatula to gently toss the veggies, ensuring they are well-coated with the seasoning. Flip the chicken a couple of times so it absorbs the flavors.
5. Roast Everything:
Put the sheet pan in the preheated oven. Roast for 25-30 minutes, checking for doneness. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), and the vegetables should be tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Add Feta (Optional):
If you like feta cheese, sprinkle it over the chicken and veggies during the last 5 minutes of roasting. This adds a delightful creamy topping!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Serve your delicious Mediterranean chicken warm, and enjoy it with some crusty bread or your favorite side dish.
Enjoy your wholesome Mediterranean dinner with minimal effort and maximum flavor!
FAQ for Easy Sheet Pan Mediterranean Chicken with Zucchini
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, asparagus, or carrots. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly if the new veggies require it, as some might cook faster or slower than zucchini.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes! Marinating the chicken in the olive oil and herb mixture overnight will enhance its flavor and tenderness. Just keep it covered in the fridge, and be sure to let it rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking for even cooking.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This Mediterranean chicken pairs beautifully with crusty bread, couscous, quinoa, or a simple green salad. You could also serve it over rice or pasta for a heartier meal.
