Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One Pan Mediterranean Chicken Meal is a wholesome, vibrant dish packed with the bold flavors of olives, lemon, garlic, and herbs—all baked together for a fuss-free, nutritious dinner. Juicy chicken thighs or breasts roast alongside colorful vegetables, creating a balanced and satisfying meal with minimal cleanup. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
chicken thighs or breastscherry tomatoesred onionbell pepperszucchinikalamata olivessliced lemonsgarlic clovesolive oildried oregano or Italian seasoningpaprikasalt and pepperfeta cheese (optional for topping)fresh parsley or basil (optional for garnish)
directions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet or roasting pan with parchment paper.
Arrange chicken pieces on the pan. Surround with cherry tomatoes, sliced red onions, bell peppers, zucchini, olives, lemon slices, and whole garlic cloves.
Drizzle everything with olive oil. Sprinkle with oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Toss vegetables gently to coat evenly, leaving chicken on top skin-side up if using thighs.
Bake for 30-40 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
Optional: Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for crispier edges.
Top with crumbled feta and fresh herbs before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 4 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 45-55 minutes
Variations
Use boneless thighs or drumsticks for variety.
Add chickpeas or baby potatoes for extra heartiness.
Swap zucchini for eggplant or squash.
Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze after baking.
Serve over rice, couscous, or quinoa for a complete meal.
storage/reheating
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual portions.
Freeze cooked chicken and veggies for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, just increase baking time by 5-10 minutes.
Is this dish spicy?
Not inherently, but add red pepper flakes for heat.
Can I prep this ahead?
Yes, assemble on the pan and refrigerate up to 12 hours before baking.
What vegetables work best?
Any quick-roasting veggies like tomatoes, peppers, onions, zucchini, or asparagus.
Do I need to marinate the chicken?
Not required, but you can marinate for extra flavor.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, simply omit the feta topping.
Can I cook everything in a skillet?
It’s best oven-baked for even cooking, but an oven-safe skillet can work.
What herbs can I use?
Oregano, thyme, basil, rosemary, or a blend all pair well.
Does it work with chicken breasts?
Yes, use thick, even-sized pieces and avoid overcooking.
What’s the best olive variety?
Kalamata or Castelvetrano olives offer great Mediterranean flavor.
Conclusion
One Pan Mediterranean Chicken Meal is a flavorful, colorful, and easy dish that makes healthy eating a breeze. With everything cooked on a single pan, it offers convenience without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this Mediterranean-inspired meal is sure to become a favorite go-to recipe.
PrintOne Pan Mediterranean Chicken Meal
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A delicious and healthy Mediterranean-inspired chicken meal made in one pan, featuring seasoned chicken thighs, fresh vegetables, and savory toppings like olives and feta cheese.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season chicken thighs with oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in an ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken thighs skin-side down for 5-6 minutes until golden. Flip and cook 2 more minutes.
- Remove chicken and set aside. Add peppers and onion to the skillet and sauté for 4-5 minutes.
- Add garlic, cherry tomatoes, and olives, then return chicken to the skillet.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from oven and sprinkle with feta, lemon juice, and parsley.
- Serve warm with juices from the pan.
Notes
- Bone-in chicken breasts can be used instead of thighs with adjusted cooking time.
- Great served with rice, couscous, or crusty bread.
- Optional: add zucchini or artichoke hearts for extra vegetables.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.