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Mediterranean Chicken

A delightful one-pan meal featuring juicy chicken breasts baked with colorful vegetables and bold flavors, perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts The main protein source, ensuring a hearty meal.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Adds richness and helps with roasting the vegetables.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher salt Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
  • 1 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper Adds a hint of spice and warmth.
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes Brings sweetness and juiciness to the dish.
  • 1 medium shallot Offers a mild, sweet onion flavor.
  • 2 cloves garlic Infuses the recipe with aromatic, savory notes.
  • 1 whole lemon Provides a refreshing zest and acidity.
  • 1/2 cup green olives Adds a salty, briny taste that enhances the flavors.
  • 2 tablespoons capers Contributes a tangy burst that complements the chicken.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Intensifies the garlic flavor without the chopping.
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder Infuses a subtle onion taste throughout.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Introduces a smoky depth to the dish.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano A classic herb that adds an earthy note.
  • 1 teaspoon dried tarragon Offers a unique anise flavor that enhances the dish.
  • 1/4 cup feta crumbles Optional garnish for added creaminess and tang.
  • 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley or basil Finishing touches for color and freshness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and position the oven rack in the upper third for broiling later.
  2. Use a kitchen mallet to lightly pound the thick end of each chicken breast until they are uniform in thickness, about ¾-inch thick.
  3. In a 9 x 13 baking dish or large rimmed baking sheet, combine halved tomatoes, sliced shallot, minced garlic, lemon slices, olives, capers, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and ¼ teaspoon kosher salt.
Cooking
  1. In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, oregano, 2 teaspoons kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
  2. Brush the chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon olive oil and rub the spice mixture generously on both sides.
  3. Nestle the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the vegetable mixture in the baking dish and bake for 18 minutes.
Serving
  1. Switch the oven to broil on high for an additional 2 to 4 minutes, watching closely for golden brown edges. Chicken is ready when it reaches 165°F internally.
  2. Remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley or basil, and optional feta crumbles before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the spice mix for a few hours before cooking. Keep a close eye while broiling to prevent burning the garlic. Let the dish rest after baking to avoid loss of juices when slicing.