If you’re seeking a dish that’s both healthy and bursting with flavor, Mediterranean Chicken is the perfect recipe to try. This dish draws inspiration from the rich culinary traditions of the Mediterranean region, where fresh herbs, ripe vegetables, and lean proteins are at the forefront. The result is a meal that’s not only delicious but also nourishing for the body.
Mediterranean Chicken is known for its vibrant blend of ingredients—juicy chicken breasts marinated in a mixture of garlic, lemon, and aromatic herbs, then baked to perfection with colorful bell peppers, tomatoes, and olives. The combination of fresh vegetables and herbs makes it a standout dish that’s perfect for any season. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that looks as good as it tastes. Best of all, it’s a simple recipe that can be prepared in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup olive oil
1 lemon, juiced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Bake:
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 red onion, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges, for serving
Directions
1. Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, combine minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a fragrant marinade. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish, and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours) to let the flavors infuse.
2. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, prepare the vegetables by slicing the bell peppers, red onion, and halving the cherry tomatoes.
3. Assemble the Dish
In a large baking dish, arrange the marinated chicken breasts. Surround the chicken with the sliced bell peppers, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and Kalamata olives. Drizzle any remaining marinade over the vegetables for extra flavor.
4. Bake the Chicken
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The vegetables should be tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Add the Finishing Touches
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove the dish from the oven. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top, allowing it to soften from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and basil for a burst of color and freshness.
6. Serve
Serve the Mediterranean Chicken hot, with lemon wedges on the side for an extra squeeze of brightness. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of couscous, quinoa, or a simple green salad.
How to Prepare
1. Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor
Marinating the chicken is a crucial step to ensure it absorbs all the flavors of the herbs and lemon. Make sure to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have more time, a longer marination (up to 4 hours) will deepen the flavors.
2. Cut Vegetables for Even Cooking
Slice the vegetables evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate. This will help them become tender without overcooking the chicken. Use a colorful mix of bell peppers and tomatoes to make the dish visually appealing.
3. Bake Until Perfectly Tender
Keep an eye on the chicken as it bakes. Avoid overcooking by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Remove the dish from the oven once it reaches 165°F (74°C) for juicy, tender chicken.
Preparation Time
Marinating: 30 minutes to 4 hours
Prepping vegetables: 10 minutes
Baking: 25-30 minutes
Total time: Approximately 1 hour (including marination)
Servings
This Mediterranean Chicken recipe serves 4, making it perfect for a family meal or dinner with friends.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for this recipe. They offer a richer flavor and remain juicy when baked. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few extra minutes to cook through.
2. What other vegetables can I add to the dish?
Feel free to add other Mediterranean vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or artichoke hearts. They will blend seamlessly with the flavors of this dish.
3. How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave for a quick meal.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken and chop the vegetables ahead of time. Assemble everything in the baking dish and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This makes meal prep quick and easy.
5. What can I serve with Mediterranean Chicken?
This dish pairs well with fluffy couscous, rice, roasted potatoes, or a fresh side salad. Adding a side of tzatziki or hummus can also enhance the Mediterranean flavors.
