Mediterranean Chicken Tray Bake

Why Make This Recipe

Mediterranean Chicken Tray Bake is a fantastic dish, perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. With its combination of juicy chicken, vibrant vegetables, and fragrant herbs, this recipe brings the tastes of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen. It’s easy to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and makes a complete meal all in one tray. Plus, the leftovers are just as delicious!

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Tray Bake

To make this delicious Mediterranean Chicken Tray Bake, start by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F) or 180°C (350°F) if using a fan-forced oven. Arrange the chicken thighs on a baking tray and sprinkle them with paprika, dried oregano, sea salt flakes, black pepper, and minced garlic.

In a small jug, combine honey, Dijon mustard, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and olive oil. Pour this tasty marinade over the chicken, making sure to rub it in so every piece is well coated.

Next, add the potatoes, red onion, and cherry tomatoes around the chicken on the tray. Drizzle them with a bit more olive oil and sprinkle with extra salt and pepper. Ensure that the chicken is facing skin-side up for that perfect golden finish.

Pour the chicken stock into the base of the baking dish, then bake for 50 minutes to 1 hour. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Before serving, let it stand for 10 minutes to let the flavors mingle.

Ingredients

1 kg (2 lb 3 oz) bone-in chicken thigh cutlets, skin on (approximately 5–6 chicken thighs)
2 tsp paprika
2 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp sea salt flakes
1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
1 tsp freshly minced garlic
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp Dijon mustard (see note 1 about gluten-free)
2–3 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
¼ cup (60 ml) olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
4–6 potatoes, cut into wedges
1 large red onion, cut into wedges
250 g (9 oz) cherry tomatoes
½ cup (125 ml) chicken stock (see note 1 about gluten-free)

How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Tray Bake

Serve the Mediterranean Chicken Tray Bake hot from the oven. It’s great on its own, but you can also pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for a heartier meal. The colorful vegetables and perfectly baked chicken make for a lovely presentation.

How to Store Mediterranean Chicken Tray Bake

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven to maintain that delicious crispy skin. You can also microwave individual portions if you’re short on time.

Tips to Make Mediterranean Chicken Tray Bake

Make sure to rub the marinade thoroughly into the chicken for maximum flavor.
If you like your vegetables a bit more roasted, you can add them to the tray halfway through cooking.
Experiment with other vegetables or herbs to tailor the dish to your taste.

Variation

Feel free to swap the chicken thighs for chicken breasts or even a mix of both! You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added color and nutrition.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just ensure you use gluten-free Dijon mustard and chicken stock.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Absolutely! Boneless thighs will cook faster, so adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the vegetables a few hours in advance. Just keep them chilled and bake when you’re ready to serve!