Mediterranean Chicken Sheet Pan

Name: Mediterranean Chicken Sheet Pan
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: World Inspiration

I love making this Mediterranean Chicken Sheet Pan whenever I crave a healthy yet flavorful meal. The vibrant colors of the vegetables and the aromatic herbs create a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. With just one pan, I can whip up a satisfying dinner that's both easy and quick, perfect for busy weeknights or when I have guests over. The combination of juicy chicken, crisp vegetables, and zesty lemon makes this dish a family favorite that keeps everyone coming back for more!

Created by

Isadora Pembroke

Last updated on 2026-02-01T18:17:36.243Z

Every time I make this Mediterranean Chicken Sheet Pan, it brings back memories of summer vacations by the sea. The warmth of the Mediterranean sun is captured in the blend of flavors, with olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs dancing together beautifully. I found that marinating the chicken for even just 30 minutes enhances the flavors significantly, so don't skip this step!

Using a variety of colorful vegetables not only makes the dish visually appealing but also adds depth to the taste. Each bite bursts with freshness, complemented by the tangy lemon juice that brings everything together. The ease of cleaning up after is just the cherry on top!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
One-pan meal for easy clean-up
Bursting with vibrant Mediterranean flavors
Healthy and satisfying with colorful vegetables
Perfect for meal prep or serving guests

Choosing the Right Chicken

Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs in this recipe is key because they remain juicy during the baking process, unlike chicken breasts that can dry out. If you prefer chicken breast for a leaner option, adjust the cooking time to prevent overcooking; they may only need about 20-25 minutes in the oven. Make sure to check for doneness with a meat thermometer, which should read 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider using bone-in chicken thighs. The cooking time will increase by approximately 10-15 minutes, but the additional richness from the bones will enhance the overall dish, giving it a satisfying, hearty quality.

Vegetable Variety and Substitutions

The combination of cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, zucchini, and Kalamata olives contributes to the Mediterranean vibe of this meal. However, feel free to swap them out for other seasonal vegetables like asparagus, red onions, or eggplant. Just be mindful of the cooking times; firmer vegetables like carrots or potatoes may require a longer baking time to achieve tenderness.

In addition, if you're looking for a lower-sodium option or have dietary restrictions, consider using green olives instead of Kalamata olives. They will provide a different flavor profile but still maintain the dish's essence.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Vegetables

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, juiced and zested
2 teaspoons dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

Cooking Directions

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Arrange Ingredients

On a large baking sheet, arrange the marinated chicken, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, zucchini, and olives.

Bake the Dish

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Mediterranean feast!

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try sprinkling fresh parsley on top just before serving.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Mediterranean Chicken Sheet Pan can be prepped ahead of time, making it perfect for meal preparation. Marinate the chicken thighs in the olive oil and seasoning mixture the night before, and store them in the refrigerator. You can also chop the vegetables and place them in an airtight container, ready to assemble the next day. Simply combine everything on the baking sheet and bake as directed when it's time for dinner.

If you prefer to have portions ready to go, you can cook the entire dish and then divide it into meal prep containers. This way, you’ll have flavorful and ready-to-eat meals for busy weeknights.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers of the Mediterranean Chicken Sheet Pan can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It's best to let the dish cool down before sealing it to prevent condensation, which can make the chicken soggy. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until everything is heated through, or you can microwave individual portions for convenience.

If you're looking to freeze leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. To reheat from frozen, simply bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 25-30 minutes, checking to ensure it's heated throughout.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may cook faster, so adjust the baking time accordingly.

→ What if I don’t like olives?

You can omit the olives or substitute them with artichoke hearts or capers for a different flavor.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include your favorite vegetables like asparagus, carrots, or eggplant.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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