Greek Chicken Tray Bake: A Flavorful One-Pan Dinner Recipe

Greek Chicken Tray Bake is a delightful dish that transports your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean. 🍽️ This one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights and can be prepared in under an hour. It combines tender chicken with vibrant vegetables, all seasoned with traditional Greek flavors. In this article, we will guide you through this simple yet flavorful recipe that promises to be a hit with the entire family!

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Why Choose a Tray Bake? 🥘

The beauty of a tray bake lies in its convenience and flavor. One-pan meals not only save time on cooking and cleaning but also allow the flavors to meld beautifully during the cooking process. Here are a few reasons why you should consider making a Greek Chicken Tray Bake for your next dinner:

1. Ease of Preparation: Simply toss all your ingredients on a tray and let the oven do the work.
2. Flavorful Meal: The combination of herbs, spices, and fresh vegetables creates a delicious dish that is satisfying and nutritious.
3. Versatility: You can easily swap out vegetables based on what you have at home or what is in season.

Ingredients Needed 🥗

Here’s what you need to create this delectable Greek Chicken Tray Bake:

<table> <tr> <th>Ingredient</th> <th>Quantity</th> </tr> <tr> <td>Chicken thighs or breasts</td> <td>4 pieces</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Red bell pepper</td> <td>1, sliced</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Yellow bell pepper</td> <td>1, sliced</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Red onion</td> <td>1, sliced</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Zucchini</td> <td>1, sliced</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Cherry tomatoes</td> <td>1 cup</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Garlic</td> <td>4 cloves, minced</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Olive oil</td> <td>3 tablespoons</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Greek seasoning</td> <td>2 tablespoons</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Lemon juice</td> <td>2 tablespoons</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Feta cheese</td> <td>½ cup, crumbled</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Fresh parsley</td> <td>For garnish</td> </tr> </table>

Note: You can customize this recipe by adding other vegetables such as asparagus, eggplant, or mushrooms. 🌟

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Cooking Instructions 🍳

Now that you have gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Greek Chicken Tray Bake:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven 🔥

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is essential to ensure even cooking and to get that delicious caramelization on your vegetables.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken 🐔

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, Greek seasoning, and lemon juice. Add the chicken pieces and toss until well coated.

Step 3: Arrange the Vegetables 🌽

On a large baking tray, spread the sliced bell peppers, red onion, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Place the marinated chicken on top of the vegetables.

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Step 4: Bake 🕒

Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Add Feta Cheese 🧀

About 5 minutes before the cooking time is complete, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the chicken and vegetables. This allows the cheese to warm up and slightly melt, enhancing the flavor.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve 🌿

Once out of the oven, let the dish rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

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Tips for the Perfect Greek Chicken Tray Bake 🌟

• Use Quality Chicken: Opt for organic or free-range chicken for the best flavor and texture.
• Cut Uniformly: Make sure to cut the vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking.
• Marinate: If time allows, marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight for more intense flavors.
• Monitor Cooking: Keep an eye on the chicken and vegetables to ensure they do not overcook.

Nutritional Benefits 🥗

This dish is not just delicious; it's packed with nutrients as well! Here are some benefits:

• High in Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is vital for muscle growth and repair.
• Rich in Antioxidants: The variety of colorful vegetables provides a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that promote overall health.
• Healthy Fats: Olive oil is a great source of healthy fats that can aid in heart health.

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Serving Suggestions 🥘

This Greek Chicken Tray Bake is versatile and can be served in many ways:

• With Rice: Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice for a hearty meal.
• With Pita Bread: Add some warm pita bread on the side for a complete Mediterranean experience.
• With Salad: Pair with a fresh Greek salad to enhance the meal.

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Conclusion 🥳

In conclusion, the Greek Chicken Tray Bake is not only a convenient one-pan meal but also a flavorful option that brings the taste of the Mediterranean into your home. With its simple preparation and delightful taste, it’s sure to become a family favorite. 🍽️ Whether you're cooking for a small gathering or just for yourself, this dish is bound to impress. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a culinary journey with this delicious Greek Chicken Tray Bake!