Name: Mediterranean Chicken Bake with Olives, Feta, and Roasted Vegetables Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon paprika; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; ½ red onion, sliced; ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; ½ cup crumbled feta cheese; Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

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If you are craving a meal that bursts with flavor, is hearty yet healthy, and embodies the vibrant spirit of the Mediterranean coast, then you are going to love this Mediterranean Chicken Bake with Olives, Feta, and Roasted Vegetables Recipe. Juicy chicken mingles with the tang of Kalamata olives, the creaminess of crumbled feta, and the sweetness of roasted cherry tomatoes and red onion, all brightened with garlic, lemon, and aromatic herbs. This one-pan wonder is a celebration of textures and colors, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a special gathering dish that feels like a warm Mediterranean hug.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows an arrangement of 11 small white bowls on a white marbled surface, each filled with different ingredients. In the top left corner, there is a whole light pink piece of raw chicken. To the right, a bowl with green zucchini slices is visible. Below, there is a bowl with shredded pale yellow cheese next to a bowl filled with peeled red tomato sauce. A bowl with white chopped onions sits nearby. Fresh green herbs are placed in a small bunch to the left of two white bowls containing black pepper and mixed white and black spices. A bowl full of crumbled white cheese is present near the center. At the bottom of the frame, halved bright red cherry tomatoes and a bottle of golden olive oil are arranged beside a bowl with dark purple whole olives. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is key to pulling off this dish with its signature tones of tangy, savory, and fresh. Each component delivers something essential — from the tender chicken and punchy olives to the juicy tomatoes and zesty lemon — making this recipe as delightful as it is straightforward.

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Choose thighs for extra juiciness or breasts for a lean option.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish perfectly without overpowering.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and depth.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a quintessential Mediterranean herbal note.
1 teaspoon paprika: Gives a mild smokiness and beautiful color.
3 tablespoons olive oil: For richness and to help everything roast beautifully.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers aromatic punch and a hint of warmth.
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Roasts down to sweet, juicy bites that balance the tang.
½ red onion, sliced: Adds a touch of mild sweetness when roasted.
½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted: The star salty, briny flavor that defines Mediterranean cooking.
1 teaspoon lemon zest: Brings fresh brightness that lifts the whole dish.
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Adds acidity that balances richness and intensifies flavors.
½ cup crumbled feta cheese: Creamy and tangy, sprinkled on top to finish.
Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish: Offers a refreshing, colorful flourish.

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Bake with Olives, Feta, and Roasted Vegetables Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly greasing a large baking dish. This helps keep the chicken from sticking and ensures easy cleanup. Next, season your chicken breasts or thighs generously with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and paprika. These spices create a flavorful crust while baking, locking in the juicy tenderness you want.

Step 2: Arrange Chicken in the Baking Dish

Once seasoned, place the chicken pieces evenly spaced in the baking dish. This arrangement allows heat to circulate around them for even cooking. It also creates little nooks to nestle the delicious medley of vegetables and olives you’ll prepare next.

Step 3: Toss the Vegetables and Olives

In a mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, pitted Kalamata olives, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice. Toss everything to coat with the oil and citrus, which will enhance caramelization and flavor during roasting.

Step 4: Add the Vegetable Mixture to the Chicken

Spoon this vibrant mixture evenly over and around the chicken in the baking dish. The tomatoes and onions will roast down to a luscious softness, while the olives release their salty tang, creating a symphony of Mediterranean flavors that complement the tender chicken perfectly.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered in your preheated oven for about 30 to 35 minutes. Aim for the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F for perfect doneness. During this time, the vegetables roast beautifully, melding with the aromatic herbs and citrus.

Step 6: Finish with Feta Cheese

Once the chicken is cooked, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly across the top and return the dish to the oven for an additional 5 minutes. This last step softens the feta just enough to become creamy without melting away, adding a luscious tang that rounds out the Mediterranean Chicken Bake with Olives, Feta, and Roasted Vegetables Recipe beautifully.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and garnish generously with fresh parsley or basil for a bright, herbaceous finish. Serve warm and get ready to fall in love with those layers of flavor and the colorful presentation.

How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Bake with Olives, Feta, and Roasted Vegetables Recipe

The image shows a white oval baking dish filled with a layered casserole. The bottom layer is thinly sliced pale yellow potatoes arranged in overlapping rows. On top of the potatoes, there are visible slices of light green zucchini placed evenly. Covering the vegetables is a thick layer of melted cheese that is creamy white with some golden brown spots. Scattered over the cheese are small pieces of browned ground meat mixed with finely chopped red bell peppers, adding red and brown colors. A silver serving spoon rests inside the dish on the right side. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface with a blue and white striped cloth partially visible at the top left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Always finish this dish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil. They add a fresh burst of color and aroma that balances the richness and saltiness of the olives and feta. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper just before serving will elevate it even more.

Side Dishes

This Mediterranean Chicken Bake is delightful on its own, but pairing it with light, complementary sides can make it a complete meal. Think fluffy couscous, fragrant rice pilaf, or rustic crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette is another stellar option for a fresh, crunchy contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve this recipe family-style on a large platter where everyone can help themselves to the colorful roasted chicken and vegetables. Alternatively, plate individual servings with a scoop of couscous or quinoa underneath, topping with a sprinkle of feta and herbs for an elegant touch. You can even stuff the roasted vegetables and chicken into warm pita bread pockets for a handheld Mediterranean feast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. The flavors deepen overnight, making for tasty next-day meals. Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days, giving you a quick and flavorful option for lunch or dinner.

Freezing

You can freeze the leftovers to save for future meals. Ensure the chicken and vegetables are completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When stored properly, they last for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. To retain the best texture, cover the dish with foil when reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. If microwaving, use short intervals to avoid drying out the chicken and vegetables.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?

Absolutely! Bone-in chicken adds even more flavor and juiciness to the dish, but bake time will increase by about 10 to 15 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F internally for safe consumption.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Mediterranean Chicken Bake with Olives, Feta, and Roasted Vegetables Recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just be mindful of sides if serving with bread or couscous, and opt for gluten-free grains if needed.

What vegetables can I add or substitute?

Feel free to customize! Zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant are all fantastic roasted additions that blend well with the existing flavors. Just chop them into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can assemble the dish a few hours ahead, refrigerate, and then bake when ready. Just allow extra baking time since the ingredients will be chilled when going into the oven.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add a pinch of red chili flakes to the seasoning or toss a few sliced hot peppers into the vegetable mix. This simple tweak gives the dish a pleasant, warming kick without overwhelming the Mediterranean balance.

Final Thoughts

This Mediterranean Chicken Bake with Olives, Feta, and Roasted Vegetables Recipe is truly a kitchen treasure that combines simplicity and elegance effortlessly. It brings together fresh ingredients and bold flavors in a way that’s comforting, healthy, and sure to impress. Whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining friends, this dish invites everyone to savor a little taste of the Mediterranean with every bite. Give it a try—you’ll soon find it becoming one of your go-to favorites!