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Sunshine Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken & Veggies: Your Mediterranean Diet Dinner Hero!

Discover a vibrant Mediterranean diet recipe featuring lemon herb roasted chicken and colorful vegetables. Easy, healthy, and delicious for weeknight dinners!
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Healthy Recipes
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
  • 1 large red onion cut into wedges
  • 1 red bell pepper seeded and chopped into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 yellow bell pepper seeded and chopped into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 zucchini cut into 1-inch rounds or half-moons
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • Juice of 1 large lemon
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper or to taste
  • Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional: Kalamata olives pitted and halved (about 1/2 cup)

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup, if desired.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, red onion, bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. If using olives, add them now.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour this marinade over the chicken and vegetables.
  4. Toss everything gently to ensure the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated with the marinade. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld while the oven heats up.
  5. Spread the chicken and vegetable mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will cause the vegetables to steam rather than roast; use two pans if necessary.
  6. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center, and the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized. The cherry tomatoes should be softened and slightly burst.
  7. Remove from the oven and garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Adjust salt and pepper if needed.