If you’re seeking a dish that combines vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, look no further than Roasted Mediterranean Chicken. This recipe perfectly captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine, known for its emphasis on fresh produce, lean meats, and flavorful herbs. Originating from the sun-drenched coasts of Southern Europe, this dish is a delightful blend of cultural influences, including Greek, Italian, and Spanish culinary traditions. It’s not only a feast for the senses but also a healthy meal option that can be enjoyed by everyone, including those new to cooking.
Ingredients
For this delightful roasted Mediterranean chicken recipe, you’ll need:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious roasted Mediterranean chicken:
1. Prepare the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. This marinade is the heart of your Mediterranean chicken, infusing the meat with a robust flavor profile.
2. Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for a more intense flavor.
3. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, remove the chicken from the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature.
4. Prepare the Vegetables
In a large roasting pan, combine the sliced bell peppers, red onion wedges, zucchini slices, and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat the vegetables evenly.
5. Roast the Chicken and Vegetables
Arrange the marinated chicken breasts on top of the vegetables in the roasting pan. Scatter the Kalamata olives around the chicken and vegetables. Place the pan in the preheated oven and roast for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
6. Garnish and Serve
Remove the pan from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the chicken and vegetables before serving. Enjoy this dish hot, accompanied by a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Tips and Variations
Tips for Success
- Choosing Chicken: While bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts are recommended for maximum flavor and juiciness, you can also use boneless chicken breasts or thighs. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Marinating: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. If time permits, marinate overnight for the best results.
- Vegetable Options: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on your preferences or what’s in season. Eggplant, mushrooms, or artichoke hearts would be excellent additions.
Variations
- Roasted Mediterranean Chicken and Potatoes: For a heartier meal, add cubed potatoes to the vegetable mix. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting.
- Mediterranean Chicken Breast Recipes: For a leaner option, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts and reduce the cooking time to 25-30 minutes.
- Easy Mediterranean Chicken Recipes for Beginners: Keep it simple by using a store-bought Mediterranean marinade to save time.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a basic nutritional breakdown per serving of roasted Mediterranean chicken:
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
These values may vary slightly based on ingredient brands and specific portion sizes.
Roasted Mediterranean Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the essence of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen. With its aromatic herbs, vibrant vegetables, and succulent chicken, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish is straightforward to prepare and packed with flavor. Try it out and share your experience with us. We’d love to hear how you personalized the recipe to make it your own.
If you enjoyed this recipe, check out our other Mediterranean-inspired dishes on easycrispyrecipes.com. Don’t forget to leave a comment below, share the recipe on social media, and subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes and cooking tips.