Mediterranean Chicken Sheet Pan

Name: Mediterranean Chicken Sheet Pan
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 red onion, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 cloves garlic, minced

Highlighted under: Natural Inspiration

When I first tried making a Mediterranean Chicken Sheet Pan, I didn't expect it to become a staple in my weekly dinner rotation. The flavors merge beautifully with bright, fresh vegetables and marinated chicken, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and healthy. The convenience of a one-pan meal leverages minimal cleanup while maximizing flavor. I love how the roasted garlic and herbs unfold during cooking, filling the kitchen with an aromatic essence that sets the mood for a delightful dinner, any night of the week.

Created by

Darcy Penrose

Last updated on 2026-02-01T17:37:35.242Z

Creating the perfect Mediterranean Chicken Sheet Pan was a delightful challenge that I embraced wholeheartedly. Each ingredient plays its own role, with marinated chicken breasts soaking up the lemon and herb flavors, while bell peppers and zucchini add a burst of color and sweetness. What really stands out is the way the juices from the chicken blend with the vegetables, making every bite a taste explosion.

I found that using freshly squeezed lemon juice and a pinch of smoked paprika elevated the dish, giving it a subtle warmth that complements the other flavors. This recipe is a true testament to the idea that simple ingredients can create a culinary masterpiece.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Easy one-pan preparation for a hassle-free cleanup
Bright and vibrant flavors that transport you to the Mediterranean
Healthy and nutritious meal that doesn't compromise on taste

The Importance of Marinating

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step that enhances its flavor and tenderness. The acid from the lemon juice not only brightens the taste but also helps to break down the proteins, resulting in juicy, moist chicken. Aim to marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes, but if you have time, extending this to 1-2 hours will deepen the flavor even more. Make sure to turn the chicken occasionally to ensure an even coating.

If you're short on time, you can still achieve great results with a quick marinate. However, for a more pronounced flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade. This will not only enhance the flavor but also introduce a pleasant heat to the dish.

Selecting and Prep the Veggies

Choosing the right vegetables is essential for balancing the dish. Bell peppers add sweetness and color, while zucchini and cherry tomatoes bring moisture and acidity. You can also experiment with other Mediterranean vegetables like eggplant, asparagus, or artichokes, which work well roasted and can add unique textures and flavors. Just be sure to cut them into uniform sizes for even cooking.

When preparing the vegetables, make sure they are well coated in olive oil and seasoned properly. This step ensures they caramelize beautifully during roasting. Look for vibrant colors and a glossy appearance as visual cues to know they’re adequately dressed. If you notice them starting to dry out, you can always add a splash of broth or additional olive oil during roasting.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

Once your Mediterranean Chicken is cooked to a perfect golden brown and aromatic, allow it to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the juices redistribute throughout the chicken, keeping it moist. Serving it straight from the sheet pan offers a rustic presentation, but don't hesitate to plate the chicken with a side of grains like couscous or quinoa to soak up the delicious juices.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can easily reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for a quick meal. For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken and veggies in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and use the oven to restore the crispy texture.

Ingredients

Chicken and Vegetables

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lemon, juiced and zested
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 red onion, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 cloves garlic, minced

Enjoy the fresh flavors of the Mediterranean with this delicious sheet pan meal!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and coat well. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Prepare the Vegetables

On a large baking sheet, spread out the sliced bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. Add minced garlic and drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Combine and Roast

Place the marinated chicken on top of the vegetables. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

Serve

Once cooked, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve warm, garnished with additional lemon zest or fresh herbs as desired.

This meal pairs beautifully with a side of rice or a vibrant salad!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight. You can also switch up the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a healthier option or need to accommodate dietary restrictions, you can swap out the chicken breasts for skinless chicken thighs. They tend to be juicier and can handle a little longer in the oven without drying out. Additionally, if you're aiming for a plant-based meal, tofu or chickpeas marinated in a similar mixture will absorb those delightful flavors and provide protein.

Don’t hesitate to switch up the herbs and spices based on what you have on hand. Instead of dried oregano, you could use Italian seasoning or even fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a more intense flavor profile. Just remember that fresh herbs should be added towards the end of cooking to preserve their brightness and fragrance.

Scaling the Recipe

This Mediterranean Chicken Sheet Pan recipe is easily scalable. If you’re cooking for a larger crowd, simply double the quantities while ensuring that the chicken pieces and vegetables remain in a single layer on the baking sheet for even roasting. If you have more ingredients than will fit comfortably on one sheet pan, consider using two pans to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to steaming rather than roasting.

When adjusting the recipe size, keep an eye on the cooking time. An increased number of chicken breasts may require an extra 5-10 minutes in the oven. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure both safety and perfect doneness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in any vegetables you like, such as asparagus, green beans, or eggplant.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Mediterranean Chicken Sheet Pan is naturally gluten-free!

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

You can marinate the chicken and chop the vegetables a day in advance to save time.