Sheet Pan Mediterranean Chicken & Zucchini: A Flavorful and Easy Dinner Idea

When it comes to busy weeknights or casual gatherings, nothing beats the convenience and flavor of a sheet pan meal. Today, we’re diving into a delicious recipe for Mediterranean Chicken & Zucchini that will not only satisfy your taste buds but also keep your kitchen mess to a minimum. This one-pan wonder is vibrant, healthy, and packed with protein, making it the perfect all-in-one dinner solution.

Ingredients

To whip up this delightful Mediterranean dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

• For the Vegetables:

  • 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 red onion, cut into wedges
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • Fresh herbs (such as parsley or basil) for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and your vegetables roast perfectly.

2. Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat them well with the marinade. Let this sit for 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but marinating will enhance the taste.

3. Prepare the Vegetables

While the chicken is marinating, prepare the vegetables. In a separate bowl, toss the zucchini, bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes with a bit of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper until everything is well coated.

4. Assemble the Sheet Pan

On a large sheet pan, arrange the marinated chicken breasts in the center. Surround them with the prepared vegetables, spreading them out evenly for optimal roasting. Ensure that everything is in a single layer to promote even cooking.

5. Bake

Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C) and the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.

6. Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the dish rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil for an added burst of flavor and color. Serve hot and enjoy your Mediterranean feast!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cleanup: With everything cooked on one sheet pan, there’s minimal mess, which means more time to enjoy your meal and less time washing dishes.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with lean protein and colorful vegetables, this dish covers all your dietary bases while keeping it wholesome.
• Versatile: Feel free to mix and match the veggies based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. This recipe is adaptable to whatever is in season or in your pantry!
• Flavor-packed: The combination of Mediterranean herbs and the bright flavors of lemon and garlic make each bite a culinary delight.

Final Thoughts

Sheet Pan Mediterranean Chicken & Zucchini is more than just a dinner idea; it’s a celebration of flavors and convenience that fits perfectly into a busy lifestyle. Whether you’re cooking for a family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and delicious taste. Don’t hesitate to give it a try; you might just find a new favorite recipe to add to your weekly rotation!

Feel free to explore, adjust, and enjoy this delightful recipe, making it your own as you bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your dining table!