Mediterranean Chicken Sheet Pan

Name: Mediterranean Chicken Sheet Pan
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 medium red onion, sliced; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 cup kalamata olives, pitted; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Highlighted under: Taste of Continents

I absolutely love preparing a Mediterranean Chicken Sheet Pan for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. The combination of marinated chicken and vibrant vegetables creates a delightful meal full of flavor and color. Using a single pan not only simplifies clean-up but also allows the ingredients to blend together beautifully during baking. Each bite delivers a taste of the Mediterranean, and I enjoy serving this dish alongside warm pita bread and a refreshing tzatziki sauce for dipping. It's a favorite in our kitchen!

Created by

Helena Wright

Last updated on 2026-02-01T21:57:36.001Z

Preparing the Mediterranean Chicken Sheet Pan has been a delightful experience. I discovered that marinating the chicken with fresh herbs, lemon, and garlic not only enhances the flavor but also tenderizes the meat. I typically let it marinate for at least an hour before cooking, and the difference in taste is remarkable. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors!

During my last attempt, I added a handful of olives and feta cheese to the veggies, which brought an amazing salty tang to the overall dish. Experimenting with toppings can truly elevate this recipe. If you're looking for flair, fresh herbs like parsley or dill sprinkled on top before serving will brighten it up beautifully.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Vibrant flavors from fresh herbs and spices
Easy one-pan preparation for minimal cleanup
Perfectly roasted vegetables that complement the chicken
Versatile meal that can be served with various sides

Mastering the Marinade

The marinade is the heart and soul of this Mediterranean Chicken Sheet Pan. Each ingredient plays a pivotal role; the olive oil helps to keep the chicken moist, while the lemon juice adds a bright, tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the chicken. If you're short on time, a minimum of 30 minutes in the marinade will still enhance the flavor, but for best results, consider letting it marinate overnight. This allows the chicken to absorb the herbs and spices, resulting in a flavorful, juicy bite.

When preparing the marinade, ensure the garlic is minced finely to disperse its flavor evenly throughout the chicken. If you're sensitive to garlic, you can reduce the amount or substitute it with garlic powder, although fresh garlic provides a more robust flavor. Remember, the balance of seasonings is crucial; feel free to adjust the oregano or add a pinch of crushed red pepper for a hint of heat.

Choosing the Right Vegetables

Selecting fresh, seasonal vegetables not only enhances the taste of the dish but also contributes to its vibrant visual appeal. Cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness and acidity, while bell peppers bring a slight crunch. Feel free to experiment with other Mediterranean staples like artichokes, eggplant, or even asparagus for varied textures. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary; denser vegetables like carrots or potatoes take longer to soften, so consider pre-roasting them slightly before adding to the pan.

Another tip: cut your vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure they cook evenly. If you prefer a more caramelized flavor, increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) while monitoring closely for burnt edges. The goal is to achieve tender, slightly browned vegetables that enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

Serving and Storing Tips

This dish shines when served fresh, but leftovers can be a delightful addition to lunch the next day. It stores well in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re looking to prepare it in advance, you can marinate the chicken and chop the vegetables a day ahead, storing them separately in the fridge until ready to bake. This will save you time during busy weeknights or gatherings.

When serving, pairing this Mediterranean Chicken Sheet Pan with warm pita bread and homemade tzatziki elevates the meal beautifully. The cool, creamy tzatziki complements the roasted flavors wonderfully. You can also serve it over a bed of couscous or quinoa for a heartier meal. For a lighter option, consider a side salad of arugula with lemon vinaigrette to add freshness to the plate.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Mediterranean Chicken Sheet Pan:

For the Chicken and Vegetables

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 medium red onion, sliced
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 cup kalamata olives, pitted
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

For the Marinade

1/4 cup olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Combine these ingredients for a fantastic Mediterranean feast!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Mediterranean Chicken Sheet Pan:

Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a large sheet pan, spread out the cherry tomatoes, red onion, bell pepper, zucchini, and olives. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss to combine.

Bake Everything Together

Place the marinated chicken on top of the vegetables on the sheet pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

Add Feta and Serve

In the last 5 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the chicken and vegetables. Once done, remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy this delightful dish with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try garnishing your Mediterranean Chicken Sheet Pan with fresh parsley or a dash of red pepper flakes before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make this dish more budget-friendly, chicken thighs can be a fantastic substitute for chicken breasts. They have a higher fat content, which boosts flavor and tends to stay juicier during cooking. You can also opt for boneless, skinless turkey breasts as a lean alternative.

In terms of vegetables, don't hesitate to substitute based on what's available in your pantry. For example, if zucchini isn't in season, yellow squash can work beautifully, and roasted carrots could add a lovely sweetness to the mix. For a spicy kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the sheet pan.

Scaling the Recipe

This Mediterranean Chicken Sheet Pan recipe is easily scalable for larger gatherings or meal prep. Simply ensure your sheet pan is large enough to accommodate extra proteins and vegetables without overcrowding. If you double the recipe, it may be necessary to use two pans to allow for proper roasting and caramelization. Crowding the pan can lead to steaming rather than roasting, affecting the texture of the vegetables.

When scaling up, be mindful to adjust the marinade proportions accordingly. A simple rule of thumb is to maintain the same ratio of marinade ingredients to chicken and vegetables. This ensures each piece is flavor-packed, keeping the essence of this delightful Mediterranean dish intact.

Reheating Leftovers

For the best results when reheating leftovers, use the oven rather than a microwave. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spread the chicken and vegetables on a baking sheet. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the crispy texture of the vegetables and prevents the chicken from becoming rubbery.

If reheating in the microwave is your only option, use a microwave-safe dish and cover it to retain moisture. Heat in short intervals, checking every 30 seconds to prevent overheating. Adding a splash of water can help steam the dish, keeping it from drying out. Serve with fresh pita and tzatziki for an enjoyable second day of flavors!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time as bone-in chicken may take longer to cook.

→ What vegetables can I substitute?

Feel free to use any seasonal vegetables like asparagus or eggplant.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and prep the vegetables up to a day in advance.

→ What should I serve with this dish?

It pairs wonderfully with couscous, quinoa, or a simple green salad.