One Pan Mediterranean Chicken
When it comes to weeknight dinners, I’m all about simplicity and flavor. One Pan Mediterranean Chicken is the perfect dish that delivers both in a big way. With juicy chicken thighs, vibrant vegetables, and the bright notes of citrus and olives, this meal is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the taste buds. Plus, it comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze—just what every busy home cook needs!
Why This Recipe Is Reliable
This recipe is a dependable go-to for several reasons. The combination of bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs ensures juicy meat that won’t dry out in the oven. Using fresh ingredients like rosemary, olives, and citrus not only adds flavor but also creates a beautiful presentation. The one-pan nature of this dish means you can toss everything together and let the oven do the work. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or impressing guests, this dish is sure to please.
What’s in the Bowl
To create this flavorful One Pan Mediterranean Chicken, gather the following ingredients:
- 8-10 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
- 1 large red onion, cut into 8 wedges
- 1 red bell pepper, seeded and cut into chunks
- 1 cup firm grape tomatoes, whole
- 1 cup pitted kalamata olives
- 3 tablespoons capers
- 3 fresh rosemary sprigs
- 1 large orange, cut into chunks
- 1 lemon, halved
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 8 garlic cloves, minced
These ingredients come together to create a symphony of Mediterranean flavors that will transport your taste buds to sunny shores.
Hardware & Gadgets
Before diving into the cooking process, here’s what you’ll need:
- Large Baking Sheet: A sturdy one is essential for even cooking.
- Mixing Bowl: For combining the marinade ingredients.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons: Precision is key for the best flavor.
- Sharp Knife: To chop your veggies and citrus efficiently.
- Spatula or Tongs: For turning the chicken and veggies halfway through cooking.
With these tools, you’ll be well-equipped to create your One Pan Mediterranean Chicken masterpiece.
One Pan Mediterranean Chicken, Made Easy
Let’s get started on this delicious dish with simple, clear steps:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature will help crisp the chicken skin and roast the vegetables beautifully.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, honey, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and minced garlic. Whisk until well combined. This marinade will infuse the chicken and vegetables with incredible flavor.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs on a large baking sheet. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken, making sure to coat each piece evenly. Reserve the other half for the vegetables.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
Scatter the red onion wedges, red bell pepper chunks, grape tomatoes, kalamata olives, capers, orange chunks, and lemon halves around the chicken on the baking sheet. Drizzle the reserved marinade over the top of the vegetables. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Add Fresh Herbs
Nestle the fresh rosemary sprigs among the chicken and vegetables. The rosemary will add an aromatic touch as everything cooks together.
Step 6: Roast in the Oven
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the vegetables are tender and caramelized.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Once done, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This One Pan Mediterranean Chicken is perfect on its own or served over a bed of fluffy couscous or rice. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the ease of this delightful dish!
Spring to Winter: Ideas
This One Pan Mediterranean Chicken can easily adapt to the seasons. Here are some ideas to switch things up:
- In the spring, add asparagus or artichoke hearts for a fresh touch.
- Summer is perfect for zucchini or eggplant, which roast beautifully.
- In the fall, consider adding butternut squash or sweet potatoes for a heartier meal.
- Winter can call for hearty greens like kale or Brussels sprouts to bulk up the dish.
Feel free to mix and match seasonal vegetables to keep this dish exciting year-round!
Slip-Ups to Skip
While cooking should be enjoyable, there are a few common slip-ups to avoid:
- Skipping the marinade time. Letting the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavor.
- Not preheating the oven. This can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy skin.
- Overcrowding the pan. Ensure there’s enough space for the chicken and vegetables to roast properly; if they are too close together, they’ll steam instead of roast.
- Using low-quality olive oil. For best flavor, choose a high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
These tips will help you achieve the best results with your One Pan Mediterranean Chicken!
Best Ways to Store
If you find yourself with leftovers (though they may be hard to resist!), here’s how to store them properly:
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken and vegetables in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
This dish maintains its flavor well, making it perfect for meal prep!
Quick Questions
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but be mindful that they may dry out more quickly. Consider reducing the cooking time.
What can I serve with One Pan Mediterranean Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with couscous, rice, or a simple green salad. You could also serve it alongside Chicken And Orzo for a delightful meal.
Is it okay to add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add any seasonal veggies you love. Just ensure they have similar cooking times to avoid undercooking or overcooking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep everything in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to roast. Just add a little extra time in the oven if starting from cold.
If you love this One Pan Mediterranean Chicken, you might also enjoy these recipes:
These dishes offer more delicious options for your dinner table!
See You at the Table
One Pan Mediterranean Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth, flavor, and the joy of gathering around the table. The vibrant colors and enticing aromas will surely have everyone coming back for seconds. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity; it’s easy to prepare, beautiful to serve, and utterly delicious. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let’s make some magic happen in the kitchen!
One Pan Mediterranean Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature will help crisp the chicken skin and roast the vegetables beautifully.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, honey, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and minced garlic. Whisk until well combined.
- Place the chicken thighs on a large baking sheet. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken, making sure to coat each piece evenly. Reserve the other half for the vegetables.
- Scatter the red onion wedges, red bell pepper chunks, grape tomatoes, kalamata olives, capers, orange chunks, and lemon halves around the chicken on the baking sheet. Drizzle the reserved marinade over the top of the vegetables. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
- Nestle the fresh rosemary sprigs among the chicken and vegetables.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the vegetables are tender and caramelized.
- Once done, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for enhanced flavor.
- Ensure the oven is preheated to avoid uneven cooking.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan to allow proper roasting.
- Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
