Mediterranean Baked Chicken Dinner Recipe

Mediterranean Baked Chicken Dinner is a flavorful and healthy dish combining the bold tastes of the Mediterranean—think olive oil, garlic, lemon, and herbs—with tender, juicy chicken. It’s a one-pan meal loaded with vegetables like tomatoes, bell peppers, and zucchini, making it both convenient and nutritious.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or chicken breasts, drumsticks)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 lemon, juice and zest
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or fresh oregano)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Vegetables:

• 1 small red onion, cut into wedges
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Feta cheese crumbles (for serving)
• Fresh lemon slices

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Marinate the Chicken:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
• Rub this mixture all over the chicken thighs, making sure to coat them well. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 1 hour in the fridge for deeper flavor).

3. Prepare the Vegetables:

• In a large bowl, toss the onion, bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and olives with olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Ensure everything is well-coated.

4. Assemble the Dish:

• In a large baking dish or sheet pan, arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer.
• Spread the vegetables around the chicken, creating an even layer.
• If desired, add a few slices of lemon over the chicken for extra flavor.

5. Bake:

• Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy.
• Stir the vegetables halfway through cooking to ensure even roasting.

6. Garnish and Serve:

• Once cooked, remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of feta cheese for extra Mediterranean flair, if desired.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve the Mediterranean baked chicken and vegetables alongside couscous, quinoa, or warm pita bread.
• A side of tzatziki or hummus complements the dish beautifully.

Tips:

• Bone-in chicken: Using bone-in, skin-on chicken helps keep the meat moist and flavorful. However, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
• Vegetable variation: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables, such as eggplant, carrots, or mushrooms.
• Crispy skin: For extra crispy chicken skin, broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, keeping an eye on it to prevent burning.

This Mediterranean Baked Chicken Dinner is a delicious, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings. The blend of juicy chicken, roasted vegetables, and bright, citrusy flavors make it a wholesome and satisfying dish.