Greek Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

Name: Greek Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 bone-in chicken thighs; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 red onion, sliced; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: International Ideas

I love preparing easy and delicious meals that bring the whole family together, and this Greek Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner does exactly that. Packed with vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, it makes weeknight dinners a breeze. The juicy chicken, roasted vegetables, and zesty herbs create a delightful harmony on a single baking sheet, minimizing cleanup time. With just a few minutes of prep, I can set it in the oven and focus on spending quality time with my loved ones, making this dish a staple in our home.

Created by

Lorna Whitcombe

Last updated on 2026-02-08T00:16:36.696Z

When I first tried the Greek Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner, I was amazed by how easy it was to prepare a meal that felt so gourmet. The key is using quality ingredients—fresh herbs and ripe vegetables make a huge difference. I marinated the chicken beforehand to infuse it with flavor, which really elevated the dish.

The beauty of this recipe lies in the one-pan method, which not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully as they roast. I always add a sprinkle of feta cheese at the end to give that perfect tangy finish.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh Mediterranean flavors that brighten up dinner time
One-pan cooking makes cleanup a breeze
Customizable with your favorite seasonal vegetables

Unlocking Flavors with Marinades

Marinating the chicken not only infuses it with flavor but also tenderizes the meat. The combination of olive oil and lemon juice acts as a natural meat tenderizer, breaking down proteins and enhancing the juiciness of the chicken thighs. Aim to marinate for at least 15 minutes, though longer (up to 2 hours) can yield even more depth of flavor. Just be cautious not to marinate too long if you are using an acid-based marinade, as it can begin to make the chicken mushy.

The inclusion of garlic and oregano in the marinade brings a delightful Mediterranean essence to the dish. Greek cuisine often highlights fresh and robust herbs, and oregano is a staple with its peppery and slightly sweet notes. Using fresh oregano is great if you have it on hand, but dried works wonderfully too and contributes to the convenience of this recipe.

Vegetable Harmony

The veggies in this sheet pan dinner play a crucial role; they not only add flavor but also provide nutritional balance. The sweet, juicy cherry tomatoes burst as they roast, complementing the tender chicken. Slicing the onion and bell pepper creates an even cook and a lovely caramelization that enhances their natural sweetness. Be sure to cut the zucchini into even pieces to ensure consistent cooking, and aim for a medium thickness of about 1/4 to 1/2 inch.

Feel free to customize the vegetable medley based on seasonal availability or personal preference. Carrots, eggplant, or even asparagus can be wonderful substitutes. Just keep in mind that some vegetables roast faster than others; for example, denser vegetables like carrots may need to be pre-roasted for about 10 minutes to ensure they’re perfectly tender by the time the chicken is cooked.

Serving and Storage Tips

This Greek Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner is perfect for serving straight from the oven for a family-style meal. I like to serve it alongside a side of Greek salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. Don't forget to sprinkle fresh parsley or even some extra feta just before serving for a pop of freshness. The vibrant colors of the dish are just as appetizing as the flavors, making for a visually pleasing presentation.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven for best results, aiming for around 350°F (175°C) until warmed throughout. Alternatively, for a quick meal, use a microwave, but be aware the chicken may lose some of its crispness. You can also freeze the components separately for future easy dinners; just ensure everything is cooled before sealing in your freezer bags.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful meal:

Ingredients

4 bone-in chicken thighs
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 red onion, sliced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 bell pepper, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
2 teaspoons dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Fresh parsley for garnish

The ingredients are all you need to create a wonderful meal.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a savory one-pan dinner:

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Marinate Chicken

In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Prepare Vegetables

On a large sheet pan, spread out the cherry tomatoes, onion, zucchini, and bell pepper. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss to combine.

Arrange Chicken

Place the marinated chicken thighs on top of the vegetables and pour any remaining marinade over the chicken.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

Add Feta

In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top and return to the oven.

Serve

Remove from oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Enjoy this Mediterranean delight right from the pan!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding olives or capers to the vegetable mix. You can also substitute the chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option.

Ingredient Pantry Substitutions

If you're lacking certain ingredients, there are plenty of substitutions that can work well in this recipe. Instead of chicken thighs, bone-in chicken breasts can be used, although they may require a slightly shorter cooking time due to their lower fat content. While fresh cherry tomatoes are delightful, canned diced tomatoes can work in a pinch; just be sure to reduce the amount of added salt since they may be pre-seasoned.

In place of feta cheese, goat cheese provides a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, consider a plant-based feta made from nuts, or simply omit cheese altogether without sacrificing flavor. The key is to maintain the balance of salty and creamy to elevate the dish.

Perfecting Your Baking Technique

Ensuring an even cook is essential when using a sheet pan. Make sure your chicken and vegetables are spread out in a single layer without overcrowding; this allows all components to roast evenly and achieve that delicious caramelization. If you find the vegetables are browning too quickly, consider covering them loosely with aluminum foil for the last part of cooking to avoid burning.

To check for doneness, a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken should read 165°F (75°C). This ensures that you are not only serving safe food but also preventing overcooking, which can lead to dryness. The roasted vegetables should be tender and slightly charred at the edges for that optimal flavor combination.

Enhancing Meal Prep Efficiency

To speed up weekday cooking, you can chop the vegetables up to a day in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This makes the setup for your sheet pan dinner super quick when you're ready to cook. You can also marinate the chicken ahead of time; just be sure to do so for no more than two hours for maximum flavor without compromising texture.

For an added layer of flavor, consider incorporating marinated olives or sun-dried tomatoes into your vegetable mix. They not only enhance the Mediterranean flair but also add a delightful contrasting texture and taste. Topping off the meal with a drizzle of balsamic reduction can provide an elegant finish without much extra effort.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables like asparagus, carrots, or broccoli.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken the night before and store it in the fridge, then just roast it with the vegetables the next day.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover chicken and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! All the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free, making it a perfect option for those with dietary restrictions.