Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Sheet Pan Mediterranean Chicken & Zucchini is the perfect balance of bold flavors, healthy ingredients, and effortless cooking. Juicy chicken paired with tender zucchini, roasted with olive oil, garlic, and Mediterranean spices, creates a dish that is both nourishing and delicious. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—you can prepare everything on one pan, which means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
This dish is not only quick to prepare but also highly versatile, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or meal prep. The Mediterranean-inspired seasoning, infused with oregano, paprika, and lemon, delivers a bright, savory profile that complements the natural sweetness of roasted zucchini. Whether served with rice, couscous, or a simple side salad, this recipe provides a wholesome, well-rounded meal that is satisfying without being heavy. If you love flavorful meals that don’t require hours in the kitchen, this one is a keeper.
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Sheet Pan Mediterranean Chicken & Zucchini: A Healthy One-Pan Dinner
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A healthy and flavorful sheet pan dinner featuring juicy Mediterranean-spiced chicken with roasted zucchini, tomatoes, and red onion for a simple one-pan meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: crumbled feta cheese for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, cumin, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Place chicken, zucchini, tomatoes, and red onion on the sheet pan. Drizzle with the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
- Arrange chicken breasts in the center of the pan and spread vegetables around them.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and vegetables are tender.
- Remove from oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley and optional feta, then serve warm.
Notes
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken for 30 minutes before roasting.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
- Serve with rice, couscous, or pita bread for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken breasts or thighs – The protein centerpiece of the dish, providing juicy, tender meat that absorbs the Mediterranean spices.
Zucchini – Roasts beautifully, becoming tender with caramelized edges that pair perfectly with the seasoned chicken.
Red onion – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor while roasting, enhancing the dish’s Mediterranean flair.
Cherry tomatoes – Provide bursts of sweetness and freshness, balancing the savory notes.
Olive oil – The base of the marinade and roasting, contributing richness and helping the vegetables caramelize.
Garlic – Brings a bold, aromatic flavor that ties together the Mediterranean seasoning.
Lemon juice – Adds brightness and acidity, balancing the richness of the chicken.
Dried oregano – A classic Mediterranean herb that infuses the dish with earthy, savory notes.
Paprika – Lends warmth and subtle smokiness to the chicken.
Salt and black pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance the natural flavors.
Fresh parsley – A fresh garnish that adds color and lightness just before serving.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken and zucchini, tossing until everything is evenly coated with the marinade.
Spread the chicken pieces and vegetables on the prepared baking sheet in an even layer. Add sliced red onions and cherry tomatoes around the chicken. Roast in the oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender with golden edges.
Once roasted, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately. Pair with couscous, rice, or warm pita bread for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, while cooking requires 25–30 minutes, making the total time around 40 minutes.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying. The microwave also works for quick reheating, though the chicken may lose some crispness. Freezing is possible for up to 2 months, but zucchini may soften upon thawing.
Variations and Customizations
This sheet pan recipe is highly flexible. You can swap zucchini for other vegetables such as bell peppers, eggplant, or broccoli. Adding olives, capers, or artichoke hearts brings an extra layer of Mediterranean flair. For those who prefer a smoky depth, substitute regular paprika with smoked paprika.
Protein variations work just as well—try boneless chicken thighs for extra juiciness or substitute with salmon or shrimp for a seafood option. Vegetarians can adapt the recipe by replacing chicken with chickpeas or halloumi cheese.
For extra richness, crumble feta cheese over the finished dish or drizzle with tzatziki sauce before serving. To make it heartier, serve the chicken and zucchini over quinoa, farro, or orzo. With so many customization possibilities, this recipe is a reliable foundation for countless variations.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, thighs work beautifully and add extra juiciness.
Do I need to peel the zucchini?
No, the skin is tender and edible, and it adds texture and color.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken and vegetables up to 24 hours in advance.
What other vegetables work well in this recipe?
Bell peppers, eggplant, and broccoli are excellent alternatives.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I add cheese to this dish?
Yes, feta cheese crumbles are a perfect finishing touch.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free as written.
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