Introduction to Greek Sheet-Pan Chicken
Why Choose Greek Sheet-Pan Chicken for Dinner?
Looking for a quick, vibrant, and flavor-packed dish to impress your dinner guests or to make a weeknight meal feel special? Enter Greek Sheet-Pan Chicken. This recipe effortlessly combines tender chicken thighs with hearty vegetables and the tangy bite of feta cheese, all drizzled in a zesty lemon-garlic dressing. It’s not just about great taste; it’s about convenience too.
Imagine a one-pan meal that requires minimal prep and clean-up. Simply toss everything together, let the oven work its magic, and voilà! In less than an hour, you’ll have a Mediterranean feast that’s just bursting with flavor. The best part? You can customize the veggies based on what you have on hand or what's in season—think bell peppers, zucchini, or even asparagus.
Plus, the use of extra virgin olive oil and fresh herbs adds a healthful touch, making this dish suitable for various dietary preferences. Whether you're serving it alongside crusty bread to soak up that rich sauce or as a standalone centerpiece, this dish truly brings a taste of Greece right to your table. You won’t be disappointed!
Ingredients for Greek Sheet-Pan Chicken
If you're ready to infuse your dinner routine with some vibrant Mediterranean flavors, gather these essential ingredients for your Greek sheet-pan chicken. With this delightful combination, you’ll create a dish that’s not only appealing but also packed with nutrients.
For the Ladolemono (Greek Salad Dressing)
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (juice of 2 large lemons)
- 1 to 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 large garlic clove, minced
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¾ teaspoon black pepper
- ¾ cup extra virgin olive oil (for an authentic flavor)
For the Chicken and Veggies
- 1 large red onion, halved and sliced into ½-inch pieces
- 1 medium zucchini, halved and sliced into ½-inch pieces
- 1 large orange bell pepper, cored and sliced
- 1 large tomato, cut into wedges
- Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
- 6 to 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- ¼ cup pitted Kalamata olives
- ¼ cup Castelvetrano olives
- 4 ounces feta cheese (chunked for richness)
- ¼ cup chopped Italian parsley for garnish
These carefully selected ingredients contribute to an undeniably delicious sheet-pan chicken dish that can elevate any weeknight dinner or special occasion. Want to enhance your Mediterranean experience? Check out this guide to learn about other staples in Mediterranean cuisine!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Greek Sheet-Pan Chicken
Cooking a delicious dinner doesn’t have to be complicated! This Greek sheet-pan chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and brings the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine right to your dinner table. Let’s dive into the preparation steps to ensure your meal is a success!
Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, gather all the ingredients to make the process smoother. You’ll need the following:
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For the Ladolemono Dressing:
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Fresh lemon juice
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Dried oregano
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Minced garlic
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Kosher salt and black pepper
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Extra virgin olive oil
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For the Chicken and Veggies:
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Chicken thighs (boneless and skinless)
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Fresh vegetables like red onion, zucchini, orange bell pepper, and ripe tomatoes
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Kalamata and Castelvetrano olives
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Tangy feta cheese
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Fresh Italian parsley for garnish
Having everything ready will make cooking more enjoyable and less stressful!
Whisk Together the Ladolemono Dressing
Start by preparing the ladolemono dressing, a Greek salad staple that will infuse your chicken and veggies with zesty flavors. In a medium mixing bowl, combine:
- ¼ cup of fresh lemon juice
- 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried oregano
- 1 minced garlic clove
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¾ teaspoon black pepper
Whisk these ingredients together until well combined. Now, while whisking, gradually drizzle in ¾ cup of extra virgin olive oil until the dressing emulsifies beautifully. This dressing will be the star of the show, so don’t skimp on this step!
Prepare the Vegetables on the Sheet Pan
Next, take a large sheet pan and spread your chopped vegetables: the sliced red onion, zucchini, orange bell pepper, and tomato wedges. Season them with a sprinkle of kosher salt and black pepper. Then, pour about ¼ cup of your ladolemono dressing over the veggies and toss everything to ensure they are nicely coated. This helps to enhance their flavor during baking!
Season the Chicken and Arrange Ingredients
Time to get that chicken ready! Season your chicken thighs on both sides with salt and pepper. Now, nestle the seasoned chicken into the pan alongside the veggies. Add the olives and sprinkle chunks of feta cheese over everything. Drizzle the remaining ladolemono dressing generously over the chicken to lock in all those tasty flavors.
Bake Until Golden Brown and Delicious
Now for the fun part—baking! Preheat your oven to 425°F and place the sheet pan in the oven. Bake for about 35 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked, and the vegetables are tender and caramelized. For that extra golden color, you can broil everything for a couple of minutes, just keep a close eye on it so nothing burns. Once done, remove your pan from the oven, spoon the rich pan juices over the chicken, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve it up and enjoy the explosion of flavors in your mouth!
This easy-to-follow guide to Greek sheet-pan chicken will surely impress your friends and family, and it could become a staple in your weekly dinners!
Variations on Greek Sheet-Pan Chicken
Swap Out the Veggies for Seasonal Produce
One of the great things about Greek sheet-pan chicken is its versatility. Feel free to mix and match with seasonal vegetables you have on hand. Asparagus, carrots, or even Brussels sprouts can effortlessly elevate this dish. Think of ingredients that capture that fresh, vibrant flavor profile typical of Mediterranean cuisine—your taste buds will thank you!
Add Different Types of Olives or Cheese
Another easy way to customize your Greek sheet-pan chicken is by experimenting with different olives or cheese varieties! Kalamata and Castelvetrano olives lend a rich brininess, but why not try green olives or some spicy olives for a kick? You can also swap the feta for tangy goat cheese or creamy ricotta for a different texture. Each combination brings a unique twist while keeping true to those iconic Mediterranean flavors. Happy cooking!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Greek Sheet-Pan Chicken
Creating the perfect Greek sheet-pan chicken is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some handy tips to elevate your dish:
- Vegetable Swap: Don’t hesitate to use seasonal veggies! Asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or even artichokes can add a unique twist.
- Marination Magic: If time permits, marinate the chicken thighs for an hour or overnight in the ladolemono for deeper flavor infusion.
- Feta Placement: For optimal melted goodness, add feta towards the end of the baking process. It prevents over-browning while allowing it to soften.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your Greek sheet-pan chicken with a simple side salad or creamy yogurt sauce for a refreshing contrast.
Ready to impress your friends? Let the Mediterranean flavors shine!
Serving Suggestions for Greek Sheet-Pan Chicken
When it comes to enjoying Greek sheet-pan chicken, you have plenty of options! Serve this vibrant dish as is for a hearty meal, or consider these delightful pairings:
- Crusty Bread: A loaf of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the rich pan sauce.
- Greek Salad: Fresh, crisp greens tossed in a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the dish’s savory flavors.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy, herb-dusted potatoes are an excellent side that complements the Mediterranean profile.
- Quinoa or Rice: For a wholesome base, serve with fluffy quinoa or fragrant rice to soak up the delicious juices.
With these ideas, you’ll create an unforgettable dining experience! Check out this link for more inspired Greek recipes.
Time Breakdown for Greek Sheet-Pan Chicken
Preparation Time
The preparation time for this delicious Greek Sheet-Pan Chicken is just 8 minutes. That's barely enough time to wash your veggies!
Cooking Time
Once you pop everything in the oven, give it about 37 minutes to bake. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while it cooks to perfection.
Total Time
All in all, you’ll need about 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something quick, flavorful, and satisfying!
Nutritional Facts for Greek Sheet-Pan Chicken
Calories
Each serving of this Greek sheet-pan chicken packs approximately 466.7 calories. It's a satisfying meal that fits well within a healthy dinner choice without compromising on flavor.
Protein
With about 25.7 grams of protein per serving, this dish is an excellent source for those looking to maintain or build muscle. Protein is essential for recovery and overall health, making this recipe a great option post-workout.
Sodium
One serving contains around 789.6 milligrams of sodium. While it's important to be mindful of salt intake, balance it with fresh vegetables and other low-sodium meals throughout the day for a well-rounded diet.
FAQs about Greek Sheet-Pan Chicken
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for tender thigh meat, you can swap in chicken breasts if that’s what you prefer. Just be mindful that chicken breasts might dry out a bit more during cooking, so consider checking them a few minutes earlier.
What should I serve with Greek Sheet-Pan Chicken?
This delicious Greek sheet-pan chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. You can serve it with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful pan juices. Alternatively, consider a fresh Greek salad or some rice pilaf for a heartier option. Roasted potatoes or a light quinoa salad are also fantastic accompaniments!
How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is simple! Let your Greek sheet-pan chicken cool down, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave; just be sure to warm it gently to keep it juicy. For longer storage, freeze the chicken for up to three months—just make sure to label it clearly!
Conclusion on Greek Sheet-Pan Chicken
In summary, Greek sheet-pan chicken is a deliciously easy dinner option that brings bold Mediterranean flavors to your table. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is satisfying on its own or alongside crusty bread. Enjoy a meal that not only tastes good but is also good for you!
Greek Sheet-Pan Chicken
Equipment
- Oven
- Sheet pan
- mixing bowl
Ingredients
For the Ladolemono (Greek salad dressing)
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice Juice of 2 large lemons
- 1 to 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 large clove garlic minced
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¾ teaspoon black pepper
- ¾ cup extra virgin olive oil
For the Chicken and Veggies
- 1 large red onion halved and sliced into ½-inch pieces
- 1 medium zucchini halved and sliced into ½-inch pieces (half moons)
- 1 large orange bell pepper cored and sliced into ½-inch thick slices
- 1 large tomato cut into 8 wedges
- kosher salt
- ground black pepper
- 6 to 8 boneless skinless chicken thighs
- ¼ cup pitted Kalamata olives
- ¼ cup pitted Castelvetrano olives
- 4 ounces feta cheese cut into chunks
- ¼ cup chopped Italian parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Position a rack in the middle of your oven and heat it to 425°F.
- In a medium mixing bowl, add the lemon juice, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper and whisk vigorously to combine. While whisking, drizzle in the olive oil and continue whisking until emulsified.
- On a large sheet pan, spread the onions, zucchini, bell pepper, and tomatoes. Season well with salt and pepper, then pour about ¼ cup of the sauce all over the veggies. Toss to coat, then spread the vegetables out so they are all touching the surface of the pan.
- Season the chicken on both sides with salt and pepper. Nestle the chicken, olives, and chunks of feta in between the vegetables and drizzle with the remaining ladolemono sauce, making sure the chicken especially is covered with the sauce.
- Bake on the center rack of your heated oven until the chicken is cooked through, about 35 minutes. For more color, transfer the chicken to the top rack about 6 inches away from the broiler. Broil for a couple of minutes, watching closely to make sure the chicken and vegetables gain some color but do not burn.
- Remove from the oven and spoon the pan juice all over the chicken. Garnish with the parsley and serve.
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