Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Tray

Name: Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Tray
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 lemons (zested and juiced); 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 1 red onion, sliced; 2 cups cherry tomatoes; 1/4 cup olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: World Kitchen Moments

I absolutely love how vibrant and fresh this Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Tray is! The combination of zesty lemon and robust Mediterranean flavors creates a dish that's perfect for any occasion. Each bite of tender chicken paired with roasted vegetables delivers a burst of flavor that truly brightens up the meal. I appreciate how simple the preparation is, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. Plus, it looks beautiful on the table, which makes it all the more inviting!

Created by

Ella Townsend

Last updated on 2026-02-14T23:21:36.951Z

When I first decided to make this Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Tray, I was looking for something that would bring warmth and cheer to my dinner table. The vibrant colors of the vegetables combined with the citrusy notes of lemon created an incredible aroma that filled my kitchen. I found that marinating the chicken just a bit longer really allowed the flavors to seep in beautifully.

Another tip I discovered is the importance of using fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme. They elevate the dish, giving it that authentic Mediterranean flair. The ease of one-pan cooking makes clean-up a breeze, which is always a bonus in my book!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Zesty lemon brightens the dish and enhances the flavors
Colorful vegetables add both nutrition and vibrancy
Easy one-pan preparation makes for quick clean-up

Marinating for Maximum Flavor

Marinating the chicken in this recipe is key to achieving deeply infused flavors. The combination of lemon juice and zest not only tenderizes the meat but also adds a refreshing brightness that elevates the dish. Ideally, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if time permits, aim for 1-2 hours for maximum impact. During this time, the acidity from the lemon interacts with the proteins in the chicken, helping to break them down for a juicier finish.

To ensure even flavor distribution, turn the chicken occasionally in the marinade. This can be easily done every 10-15 minutes if you're marinating for an extended period. For a twist, consider adding a splash of white wine or substituting lemon for lime in the marinade for a slightly different flavor profile that still aligns with Mediterranean tastes.

Choosing and Preparing Vegetables

The vibrant mix of vegetables not only enhances the visual appeal of the Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Tray but also contributes essential nutrients and varied textures. While this recipe calls for red and yellow bell peppers, red onions, and cherry tomatoes, feel free to experiment with seasonal vegetables. Zucchini, asparagus, or even eggplant can be great substitutions; just ensure they are cut uniformly for even roasting.

When arranging the vegetables on the tray, consider how they will cook at different rates. For heartier veggies like zucchini, a slightly larger cut may help them cook at a similar pace as softer tomatoes. Keeping them in a single layer aids in proper roasting; crowded vegetables can steam rather than roast, resulting in a less desirable texture.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Vegetables

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 lemons (zested and juiced)
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 red onion, sliced
2 cups cherry tomatoes
1/4 cup olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Ensure everything is evenly coated with the marinade for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, combine the lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Tray

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a large baking sheet, arrange the sliced vegetables and cherry tomatoes.

Add the Chicken

Place the marinated chicken on top of the vegetables, making sure to pour any leftover marinade over everything.

Roast the Dish

Roast the chicken and vegetables in the oven for about 45 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean meal!

This meal can be served with rice or crusty bread for a complete dining experience!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a bit of heat.

Serving Suggestions

This Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Tray makes a stunning centerpiece when served directly from the oven. Pair it with a simple side salad or a grain like couscous or quinoa to soak up the zesty flavors. A drizzle of a lemon vinaigrette over the salad can tie the meal together beautifully, enhancing the citrus notes present in the chicken and vegetables.

For a more substantial meal, consider serving this dish with crusty bread or pita. This adds a nice texture contrast and allows guests to scoop up the juicy chicken and roasted veggies, making the meal feel more interactive and communal.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftover Mediterranean Lemon Chicken, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate and consume within 3-4 days, ensuring the chicken remains moist when reheating. A microwave may suffice, but for better texture, reheating in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes is recommended.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. After cooking, allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven for optimal results, ensuring even heat distribution and retaining the vibrant flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, bone-in chicken will work, but the cooking time may need to be adjusted.

→ What vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add zucchini, eggplant, or asparagus for variety!

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can marinate the chicken the night before and assemble everything to bake right before serving.