Mediterranean chicken traybake

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### Ingredients for Mediterranean Chicken Traybake:

Here’s what you’ll need to create this Mediterranean-inspired meal:

– **4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts** (or thighs, if preferred)
– **2 tablespoons olive oil**
– **1 teaspoon dried oregano**
– **1 teaspoon dried thyme**
– **1 teaspoon paprika**
– **Salt and black pepper**, to taste
– **1 lemon** (cut into wedges for roasting and juicing)
– **1 red bell pepper**, sliced into strips
– **1 yellow bell pepper**, sliced into strips
– **1 zucchini**, sliced into half-moons
– **1 pint cherry tomatoes**, halved
– **1 medium red onion**, sliced into wedges
– **2 garlic cloves**, minced
– **1/4 cup Kalamata olives** (optional, for a more authentic Mediterranean flavor)
– **Fresh parsley** (for garnish)

Optional:
– **Feta cheese** (crumbled or in blocks) – for topping, if desired.

### Instructions for Making Mediterranean Chicken Traybake:

#### 1. **Preheat the Oven**
Preheat your oven to **400°F (200°C)**. This high temperature will ensure that the chicken and vegetables roast to perfection, with a golden-brown exterior and tender interior.

#### 2. **Prepare the Chicken**
Pat the **chicken breasts** dry with paper towels. This helps them roast better by ensuring they don’t release too much moisture. Season the chicken generously with **salt**, **pepper**, **oregano**, **thyme**, and **paprika**. Drizzle **olive oil** over the chicken, rubbing it in to coat the meat evenly.

#### 3. **Prepare the Vegetables**
On a large **baking tray**, arrange the **sliced bell peppers**, **zucchini**, **red onion**, and **cherry tomatoes**. Drizzle with a little olive oil and toss everything together to coat the vegetables. Sprinkle with **salt**, **pepper**, and a little extra **oregano** for seasoning. Add the **garlic** and toss again.

#### 4. **Arrange the Chicken and Vegetables**
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the center of the tray, nestling them among the vegetables. If you’re using **Kalamata olives** and **lemon wedges**, scatter them around the chicken and vegetables. Squeeze a bit of fresh **lemon juice** over the chicken and vegetables, and place the lemon wedges on the tray for roasting.

#### 5. **Roast in the Oven**
Transfer the tray to the preheated oven and roast for **25-30 minutes**, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is golden brown on top. The vegetables should be tender and lightly charred.

#### 6. **Finish and Garnish**
Once the chicken and vegetables are cooked, remove the tray from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped **parsley** and, if desired, sprinkle **crumbled feta cheese** over the top for an extra burst of Mediterranean flavor.

#### 7. **Serve and Enjoy**
Slice the chicken and serve with the roasted vegetables on the side. Pair with a simple green salad, couscous, or warm pita bread to complete your Mediterranean meal.

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### Tips for the Perfect Mediterranean Chicken Traybake:

– **Use Bone-In Chicken for Extra Flavor**: While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the most common choice, you can also use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks for extra flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as bone-in pieces may need a few extra minutes.

– **Add Feta or Tzatziki**: For an even more authentic Mediterranean touch, consider topping your traybake with **crumbled feta cheese** after it comes out of the oven. Alternatively, serve with a side of **tzatziki sauce** (yogurt, cucumber, and garlic sauce) for a cool contrast to the warm flavors.

– **Customizable Vegetables**: Feel free to swap out or add other Mediterranean vegetables, like **eggplant**, **artichokes**, or **olives**. Just make sure they are cut into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.

– **Add Extra Zing with Lemon**: If you love the citrusy flavor, add extra **lemon juice** at the end, or roast additional lemon wedges alongside the chicken. This will add brightness and freshness to every bite.

– **Meal Prep**: This dish makes for great leftovers. You can store any leftover chicken and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven for a quick and easy meal.

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### Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to Mediterranean Chicken Traybake:

The **Mediterranean Chicken Traybake** is one of those dishes that makes you feel like you’re indulging in something special, even though it’s incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of juicy chicken, roasted vegetables, and the depth of Mediterranean herbs and spices creates a meal that is both hearty and healthy.

Not only is it perfect for busy weeknights, but it also makes a wonderful dish for entertaining guests or meal prepping for the week ahead. With a balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, this meal is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients. The colorful vegetables and zesty lemon add a burst of freshness that will leave you craving more.

So, whether you’re hosting a dinner party, trying to eat healthier, or simply in need of a quick weeknight dinner, this **Mediterranean Chicken Traybake** will deliver every time. It’s a meal that brings people together, nourishes your body, and fills your kitchen with the delicious aromas of the Mediterranean. Enjoy!