Easy & Healthy Sheet Pan Mediterranean Chicken with Zucchini 🍗🥒🌿
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a quick, nutritious, and flavorful dinner, look no further than this Sheet Pan Mediterranean Chicken recipe. Combining tender chicken with vibrant zucchini and Mediterranean herbs, this easy sheet pan dinner is perfect for busy weeknights. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also offers a healthy twist with minimal cleanup. Dive into this savory dish that embraces the essence of Mediterranean cuisine, and elevate your weeknight meal repertoire!
2. Ingredients for Healthy Chicken and Zucchini
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
For even more delicious ideas, explore our collection of easy dinner recipes and Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Easy Sheet Pan Dinner
Preparing the Chicken and Vegetables
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts evenly with half of the herb mixture. Toss the zucchini and cherry tomatoes in the remaining herb mixture. Place the chicken, zucchini, and tomatoes on a large sheet pan lined with parchment paper.
Cooking the Mediterranean Chicken with Zucchini
Arrange the lemon slices over the chicken and vegetables. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F) and the vegetables are tender. For added color and flavor, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes until slightly charred.
Serving and Garnishing the Dish
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot, directly from the sheet pan for a rustic touch, or plate for a more elegant presentation. Pair with a side of whole grain rice or crusty bread to complete your meal.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Healthy Chicken and Zucchini
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a microwave or oven until warmed through. For best texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F covered with foil to retain moisture. This dish also freezes well—simply store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
5. Delicious Serving Suggestions
This Mediterranean chicken with zucchini pairs beautifully with:
- Garlic Butter Pasta
- Freshly baked pita bread or naan
- Crunchy Greek salad with feta and olives
- A cool dollop of tzatziki sauce
Experiment with different sides to make this dish suitable for any occasion.
6. Frequently Asked Questions about Easy & Healthy Sheet Pan Mediterranean Chicken
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor. Adjust cooking time to 35-40 minutes, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute chicken with plant-based protein such as chickpeas or tofu. Adjust the seasoning and roasting time accordingly.
How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation time is approximately 10-15 minutes, with a total cooking time of 25-30 minutes for a quick and easy dinner.
What are good substitutions for fresh herbs?
Use dried herbs if fresh are unavailable—just reduce the quantity by half. For example, 1 teaspoon of dried herbs equals 1 tablespoon of fresh.
7. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need for This Recipe
- Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master: Make slicing zucchinis and other vegetables a breeze with this versatile vegetable chopper.
- CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set: Ensure your baking sheets and cookware are nonstick for easy cleanup and perfect cooking results.
- Ninja Mega Kitchen Power System: Blend up sauces, marinades, or sides effortlessly to complement your meal.
- Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker: Ideal for preparing refreshing drinks to pair with your Mediterranean chicken.
8. Benefits of Making an Easy & Healthy Sheet Pan Meal
This sheet pan dinner offers numerous advantages: minimal prep, fewer dishes, and a wholesome meal packed with nutrients. It’s adaptable, so you can customize ingredients based on what’s in your pantry or garden. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy healthy eating without sacrificing flavor or convenience.
9. Conclusion
In summary, this Sheet Pan Mediterranean Chicken recipe is a perfect go-to for anyone seeking a healthy dinner option that’s both easy to make and bursting with flavor. With simple ingredients, quick prep, and straightforward cooking, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Try it tonight and enjoy the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean with minimal effort!
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Easy & Healthy Sheet Pan Mediterranean Chicken with Zucchini
Discover the delicious and healthy Easy & Healthy Sheet Pan Mediterranean Chicken with Zucchini, a quick and flavorful dinner perfect for busy weeknights. This wholesome recipe combines tender chicken breasts, fresh zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and fragrant Mediterranean herbs all cooked effortlessly on a single sheet pan for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the chicken breasts evenly with half of the herb mixture. Toss the zucchini and cherry tomatoes in the remaining herb mixture.
- Arrange the chicken, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes on a large sheet pan lined with parchment paper.
- Place lemon slices over the chicken and vegetables. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the vegetables are tender.
- For added color, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes until slightly charred. Remove from oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve hot directly from the sheet pan or plate for a more refined presentation. Pair with rice or crusty bread if desired.
Notes
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F covered with foil for best results.
- This dish can be customized with chicken thighs or plant-based proteins like chickpeas or tofu. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Use dried herbs in place of fresh if needed, reducing the amount by half.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Nut-Free, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 350 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg