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Easy One-Sheet-Pan Mediterranean Chicken Recipe with Zucchini and Olives for Perfect Weeknight Dinner

one-sheet-pan mediterranean chicken - featured image

A quick and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired one-sheet-pan chicken dish with zucchini and olives, perfect for a fuss-free weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds / 680 grams)
  • 2 medium zucchinis, cut into thick half-moons
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives (about 75 grams), pitted
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh parsley (optional), chopped for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice and zest, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well blended and fragrant.
  3. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Toss the chicken in the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated well. Let sit for 10 minutes if possible.
  4. Slice zucchinis into thick half-moons (about 1/2 inch thick). Add them to the bowl with the chicken marinade and gently toss to coat.
  5. Arrange chicken thighs skin-side up evenly on a large rimmed baking sheet. Scatter zucchini slices and Kalamata olives around the chicken, avoiding overcrowding.
  6. Roast in the oven for 30-35 minutes. Halfway through (around 15 minutes), use tongs to flip the zucchini and olives for even cooking, but leave chicken skin side up.
  7. Check chicken for doneness; internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Skin should be golden brown and crispy, zucchini tender but firm.
  8. Remove from oven, sprinkle fresh parsley on top, and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before marinating for crispier skin. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even roasting. Let chicken rest after cooking to lock in juices. For extra lemon flavor, drizzle fresh lemon juice before serving. Can substitute chicken breasts but reduce cooking time to 20-25 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mediterranean chicken, one sheet pan, zucchini, olives, easy dinner, weeknight meal, baked chicken thighs