Mediterranean Chicken Tray Bake: A Delicious One-Pan Meal For Easy Weeknight Dinners

Mediterranean Chicken Tray Bake is a delightful, all-in-one dish that not only bursts with flavor but also simplifies your weeknight dinner routine. This vibrant meal combines juicy chicken with a medley of fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices, all beautifully roasted in a single tray. Whether you're hosting a family dinner or simply trying to make weeknight meals less stressful, this recipe checks all the boxes! 🍗✨

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Mediterranean+Chicken+Tray+Bake" alt="Mediterranean Chicken Tray Bake" /> </div>

Why Choose a Tray Bake? 🌟

One of the biggest advantages of a tray bake is the convenience it offers. With everything cooked together, you can minimize clean-up time and maximize the flavors as they meld in the oven. Here are a few key benefits of making a tray bake:

• Simple Preparation: Just chop your ingredients, season, and arrange them on a baking tray.
• Minimal Clean-Up: Cooking in one dish means less washing up afterward! 🙌
• Flavorful Fusion: The roasting process allows for a delightful blending of flavors and aromas.
• Healthy Ingredients: Opt for fresh veggies and lean chicken for a nutritious meal. 🥗

Ingredients You’ll Need 🥙

To make this Mediterranean Chicken Tray Bake, gather the following ingredients:

<table> <tr> <th>Ingredient</th> <th>Quantity</th> </tr> <tr> <td>Chicken thighs or breasts</td> <td>4-6 pieces</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Cherry tomatoes</td> <td>1 cup</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Bell peppers (mixed colors)</td> <td>2, sliced</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Zucchini</td> <td>1, sliced</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Red onion</td> <td>1, sliced</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Olive oil</td> <td>3 tbsp</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Garlic cloves</td> <td>4, minced</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Oregano</td> <td>1 tsp</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Paprika</td> <td>1 tsp</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Salt & pepper</td> <td>To taste</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Feta cheese</td> <td>Optional, for topping</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Fresh parsley</td> <td>For garnish</td> </tr> </table>

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Mediterranean+Chicken+Tray+Bake+Ingredients" alt="Mediterranean Chicken Tray Bake Ingredients" /> </div>

Preparing Your Mediterranean Chicken Tray Bake 🍽️

The preparation is straightforward and can be done in under 20 minutes, leaving you ample time to unwind while dinner cooks.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven 🔥

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to roast your chicken and vegetables beautifully.

Step 2: Season the Chicken 🍗

In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken in the mixture until evenly coated.

Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables 🌶️

On a large baking tray, arrange the sliced bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle a little olive oil, sprinkle salt, and pepper, and toss to mix.

Step 4: Combine Everything Together 🥘

Nestle the seasoned chicken among the vegetables on the baking tray. For added flavor, you can sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top.

Step 5: Bake 🕒

Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Baked+Mediterranean+Chicken" alt="Baked Mediterranean Chicken" /> </div>

Serving Suggestions 🍽️

Once your Mediterranean Chicken Tray Bake is ready, garnish it with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. This dish can be served in various ways:

• With Rice or Couscous: Serve the chicken and vegetables over a bed of fluffy rice or couscous to soak up all the delicious juices.
• With a Side Salad: A simple green salad will complement the richness of the dish perfectly.
• As Leftovers: This tray bake is delicious reheated for lunch or as a quick dinner later in the week.

Enjoying Leftovers

One of the best things about a tray bake is that it keeps well! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave before enjoying.

Health Benefits of the Ingredients 🌱

This Mediterranean Chicken Tray Bake is not just tasty; it's also packed with health benefits! Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Chicken: A great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Vegetables: Loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Bell peppers and tomatoes are particularly rich in vitamin C.
• Olive Oil: A heart-healthy fat that can aid in cholesterol management.
• Feta Cheese: Adds flavor and a source of calcium.

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Healthy+Mediterranean+Dish" alt="Healthy Mediterranean Dish" /> </div>

Tips for Customization 🔄

Feel free to customize your Mediterranean Chicken Tray Bake based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences:

• Swap out Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or eggplant can be great substitutes.
• Try Different Proteins: You can use shrimp or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Herbs and Spices: Experiment with rosemary, thyme, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for some heat. 🌶️

Conclusion

The Mediterranean Chicken Tray Bake is a simple yet delectable dish that can transform your weeknight dinners. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, it not only looks appetizing but also fuels your body with nutritious ingredients. Enjoy the ease of preparation and cleanup while indulging in a meal that everyone will love! Happy cooking! 🍴❤️

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Mediterranean+Chicken+Tray+Bake+Final" alt="Final Mediterranean Chicken Tray Bake" /> </div>