Name: Mediterranean Baked Chicken: A Flavorful & Healthy Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 65 min
Yield: 4-6 servings
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 red onion, sliced; 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, for serving); Lemon wedges, for serving

Mediterranean Baked Chicken: Just the name conjures images of sun-drenched coasts, fragrant herbs, and the simple, wholesome goodness of the Mediterranean diet, doesn't it? I'm thrilled to share this incredibly flavorful and easy-to-make recipe with you. Forget bland, boring chicken dinners! This dish is bursting with vibrant flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the shores of Greece or Italy.

The Mediterranean diet, renowned for its health benefits and emphasis on fresh, whole foods, has a rich history rooted in the culinary traditions of the region. For centuries, families have gathered around tables laden with dishes like this one, sharing stories and enjoying the simple pleasures of life. This Mediterranean Baked Chicken recipe is a modern take on those classic flavors, bringing the essence of the Mediterranean to your kitchen.

What makes this dish so irresistible? It's the perfect combination of tender, juicy chicken infused with the bright, zesty flavors of lemon, garlic, oregano, and a touch of olive oil. The addition of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, tomatoes, and olives not only adds visual appeal but also contributes to the dish's incredible taste and texture. People love this recipe because it's healthy, delicious, and incredibly convenient. It's a one-pan wonder that requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or elegant enough for a weekend gathering. Get ready to experience a taste of the Mediterranean with every bite!

Ingredients:

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 red onion, sliced
1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, for serving)
Lemon wedges, for serving

Preparing the Vegetables and Chicken:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the oven is hot enough to cook the chicken and vegetables evenly.
Prepare the chicken breasts. If they are very thick, you can slice them horizontally to create thinner cutlets. This will help them cook faster and more evenly. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a good sear and preventing the chicken from steaming in the oven.
In a large bowl, combine the sliced red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion. Make sure the vegetables are sliced into similar sizes so they cook at the same rate.
Add the Kalamata olives and sun-dried tomatoes to the bowl with the other vegetables. The olives and sun-dried tomatoes will add a burst of Mediterranean flavor to the dish.
In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, fresh oregano, fresh parsley, olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). This mixture will be the marinade and sauce for the chicken and vegetables.
Pour half of the olive oil mixture over the vegetables in the large bowl. Toss well to coat all the vegetables evenly. This ensures that the vegetables are flavorful and don't dry out during baking.
Place the vegetables in a single layer in a large baking dish. A 9x13 inch baking dish works well. Spreading the vegetables in a single layer allows them to roast properly instead of steaming.
Drizzle the remaining olive oil mixture over the chicken breasts. Make sure to coat both sides of the chicken. Season the chicken generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don't be shy with the seasoning, as this is what will give the chicken its flavor.
Arrange the chicken breasts on top of the vegetables in the baking dish. Make sure the chicken is not overcrowded, as this can prevent it from cooking evenly.

Baking the Mediterranean Chicken:

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This will help to trap the moisture and prevent the chicken and vegetables from drying out during the initial baking process.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. The foil helps to steam the chicken and vegetables, ensuring they are tender and juicy.
Remove the aluminum foil from the baking dish. Be careful when removing the foil, as steam will escape.
Continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of the chicken in the thickest part.
If the vegetables are not as tender as you like, you can continue baking for a few more minutes. Keep an eye on the chicken to make sure it doesn't dry out.
Once the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender, remove the baking dish from the oven.

Serving the Dish:

Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the chicken and vegetables (if using). The feta cheese adds a salty and tangy flavor that complements the Mediterranean flavors of the dish.
Serve the Mediterranean baked chicken and vegetables hot.
Garnish with fresh lemon wedges. A squeeze of lemon juice adds a bright and refreshing touch to the dish.
Serve the dish as is, or with a side of rice, quinoa, or couscous. These grains are a great way to soak up the delicious sauce from the baking dish.
You can also serve the chicken and vegetables with a side of crusty bread for dipping in the sauce.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Tips for Success:

Use high-quality ingredients. The better the quality of your ingredients, the better the flavor of the dish will be.
Don't overcrowd the baking dish. If the baking dish is too crowded, the chicken and vegetables will steam instead of roast.
Adjust the seasoning to your liking. Feel free to add more or less salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
Experiment with different vegetables. You can use any vegetables you like in this dish. Some other good options include bell peppers of different colors, eggplant, and cherry tomatoes.
Add a splash of white wine. For an extra layer of flavor, add a splash of dry white wine to the baking dish before baking.
Make it ahead of time. You can prepare the vegetables and chicken ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake.
Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. For a richer flavor, you can use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Add some chickpeas. For a heartier dish, add a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas to the baking dish along with the vegetables.
Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt. A dollop of Greek yogurt adds a creamy and tangy element to the dish.

Variations:

Spicy Mediterranean Chicken: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the olive oil mixture for a spicier dish.
Lemon Herb Mediterranean Chicken: Add more lemon juice and fresh herbs to the olive oil mixture for a brighter and more flavorful dish.
Mediterranean Chicken with Potatoes: Add cubed potatoes to the baking dish along with the other vegetables for a heartier meal.
Mediterranean Chicken with Artichoke Hearts: Add quartered artichoke hearts to the baking dish for a unique and flavorful twist.

Conclusion:

This Mediterranean Baked Chicken recipe isn't just another chicken dish; it's a vibrant, flavorful journey to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean, right in your own kitchen! I truly believe you'll find it's a must-try for anyone looking for a healthy, delicious, and relatively hands-off meal. The combination of juicy, tender chicken infused with the bright, herbaceous flavors of oregano, thyme, and lemon, coupled with the sweetness of roasted tomatoes and the briny tang of olives, creates a symphony of tastes that will tantalize your taste buds. It's a dish that's both comforting and exciting, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. But the best part? It's incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different variations to suit your preferences. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade. If you're a fan of feta cheese (and who isn't?), crumble some over the top during the last few minutes of baking for a creamy, salty finish. You could also incorporate other Mediterranean vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or artichoke hearts for an even more substantial and colorful meal. Speaking of serving suggestions, the possibilities are endless! I personally love serving this Mediterranean Baked Chicken over a bed of fluffy couscous or quinoa to soak up all those delicious pan juices. A side of crusty bread is also a must for mopping up every last drop of flavor. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a fresh Greek salad or a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette. You could even shred the chicken and use it as a filling for pita pockets or wraps, adding a dollop of hummus and some chopped cucumber for a quick and easy lunch. And don't forget about leftovers! This chicken is just as delicious the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping. You can use it in salads, sandwiches, or even as a topping for pizza. The flavors actually meld together even more overnight, making it even more flavorful. I've poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I'm confident that you'll love it as much as I do. It's a dish that's not only delicious but also good for you, packed with lean protein, healthy fats, and plenty of vitamins and minerals. It's a win-win! So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure. I promise you won't be disappointed. I'm so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the magic of Mediterranean flavors for yourself. Once you've made it, please, please, please come back and share your experience in the comments below! I'd love to hear what you thought, what variations you tried, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue creating recipes that you'll love. Happy cooking!