Greek Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner
Highlighted under: Global Cuisine
I absolutely love this Greek Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner because it's a vibrant and flavorful way to enjoy a wholesome meal. With tender chicken thighs marinated in tangy lemon and herbs, it pairs perfectly with colorful roasted vegetables. The best part? It all cooks on a single sheet pan, making cleanup a breeze. The delightful combination of Mediterranean flavors transports me straight to sunny Greece, making this dish a favorite in my home for quick weeknight dinners and entertaining alike.
When I first made this Greek Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner, I was amazed at how easy it was to put together without sacrificing flavor. The key is to marinate the chicken beforehand, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply. I found that using bone-in thighs not only adds to the flavor but also keeps the meat juicy as it cooks alongside vibrant veggies like bell peppers and red onions. It's truly a family-friendly recipe!
One of my favorite tips is to add a sprinkle of feta cheese right before serving. It melts beautifully into the warm chicken and veggies, enhancing the Mediterranean essence of the dish. This dinner not only satisfies my family's cravings but also showcases how simple, healthy meals can be crafted right from my kitchen.
You'll Love This Dish Because
- Zesty lemon and herb marinade infuses the chicken with incredible flavor
- A colorful array of roasted vegetables adds both taste and nutrition
- Effortless cleanup with everything cooking on just one sheet pan
Mastering the Marinade
The marinade not only tenderizes the chicken thighs but also infuses them with a bright and zesty flavor. To achieve the best results, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes, but for an even richer taste, consider marinating it for up to 4 hours or overnight in the refrigerator. This extended time helps the flavors penetrate deeply into the meat, providing a more succulent and tasty dish.
Be sure to use freshly squeezed lemon juice if possible, as it has a brightness and acidity that bottled juice lacks. The combination of lemon, olive oil, oregano, and seasoning creates a balanced marinade that complements the chicken beautifully. If you're in a pinch, swapping the oregano for a mixture of Italian herbs or even fresh herbs can provide delightful variations.
Roasted Vegetables: Getting it Just Right
Roasting vegetables not only enhances their natural sweetness but also provides a satisfying bite. For this recipe, cutting the red onion and bell peppers into uniform pieces ensures even cooking. Aim for pieces that are about 1-inch thick to achieve that perfect caramelization without burning. Keep an eye on them during baking; they should be tender with golden edges when ready—typically around 30-40 minutes at 400°F.
If you're looking to switch things up, feel free to explore other vegetables. Zucchini, carrots, or eggplant can be exciting substitutes that still pair well with the Mediterranean profile of this dish. Just remember to adjust cutting sizes and cooking times accordingly based on the vegetable's density.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious Greek Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner:
For the Chicken and Vegetables
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 lemons (one for juice, one for wedges)
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped before starting for an easier cooking experience.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Greek Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Marinade
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, juice of one lemon, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat well. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Arrange the Vegetables
While the chicken marinates, prepare the vegetables. On a large sheet pan, spread out the sliced bell peppers, onion wedges, and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and toss to coat.
Add the Chicken
Place the marinated chicken thighs on top of the vegetables. Add lemon wedges for extra flavor.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Finish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle crumbled feta over the dish and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serve warm with fresh pita bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal!
Pro Tips
- For an extra kick, add some fresh herbs like parsley or dill before serving. You can also customize the vegetables based on what's in season.
Storage and Reheating
This Greek Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner is fantastic for meal prep. Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend using the oven rather than the microwave for the best texture. Place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through, to ensure that the chicken stays juicy and the vegetables retain their texture.
If you wish to freeze leftovers, separate the chicken and vegetables into individual portions. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, allow the frozen meal to defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, or bake from frozen at a lower temperature of 325°F (160°C) until heated through, usually taking about 45 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Greek Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner, consider serving it with a side of warm, crusty pita bread or over a bed of fluffy couscous or quinoa. Both options provide a nice contrast in texture and can help soak up the delicious juices from the chicken and roasting vegetables. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs right before serving can add a touch of freshness to the dish.
For an added burst of flavor, a dollop of tzatziki sauce made from yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and fresh dill pairs perfectly with the Mediterranean elements of this meal. This not only enhances the meal visually but also provides a creamy, cooling contrast to the zesty chicken and roasted vegetables.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, but reduce the cooking time to about 25-30 minutes as they cook faster.
→ Is it necessary to use skin-on chicken?
While skin-on chicken yields a juicier result, you can use skinless if preferred, just be careful not to overcook.
→ What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add zucchini, asparagus, or even potatoes for a heartier meal.
→ Can I prep this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Marinate the chicken and chop the vegetables a day in advance for easy assembly later.
Greek Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner
I absolutely love this Greek Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner because it's a vibrant and flavorful way to enjoy a wholesome meal. With tender chicken thighs marinated in tangy lemon and herbs, it pairs perfectly with colorful roasted vegetables. The best part? It all cooks on a single sheet pan, making cleanup a breeze. The delightful combination of Mediterranean flavors transports me straight to sunny Greece, making this dish a favorite in my home for quick weeknight dinners and entertaining alike.
Created by: Brianna Tate
Recipe Type: Global Cuisine
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken and Vegetables
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 lemons (one for juice, one for wedges)
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, juice of one lemon, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat well. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.
While the chicken marinates, prepare the vegetables. On a large sheet pan, spread out the sliced bell peppers, onion wedges, and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and toss to coat.
Place the marinated chicken thighs on top of the vegetables. Add lemon wedges for extra flavor.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Once out of the oven, sprinkle crumbled feta over the dish and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Extra Tips
- For an extra kick, add some fresh herbs like parsley or dill before serving. You can also customize the vegetables based on what's in season.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 550mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 16g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 30g