Mediterranean Feta Chicken Tray Bake

Name: Mediterranean Feta Chicken Tray Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on; 200g feta cheese, crumbled; 1 red onion, sliced; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 250g cherry tomatoes, halved; 100g Kalamata olives, pitted; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Authentic Ideas

I absolutely love creating dishes that bring together vibrant, fresh flavors, and this Mediterranean Feta Chicken Tray Bake is a perfect example. By roasting chicken with a medley of vegetables and creamy feta, I achieve a meal that feels both hearty and light. The simplicity of this recipe allows the ingredients to really shine. Thanks to oven roasting, everything comes together beautifully with minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a relaxed dinner with friends.

Created by

Adriana Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-02-15T23:59:36.426Z

When I first tried this Mediterranean Feta Chicken Tray Bake, I was inspired by the bright flavors of the Mediterranean. The combination of juicy chicken, tangy olives, and creamy feta creates a symphony of tastes that dances on the palate. I found that allowing the dish to roast for the right amount of time ensures that both the chicken stays tender and the vegetables caramelize beautifully.

A secret tip I discovered is to add a splash of lemon juice before serving. It elevates the entire dish, making each bite burst with freshness. Trust me; this simple addition transforms the flavors and is something I always recommend to family and friends!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright Mediterranean flavors that awaken your taste buds
One-pan preparation makes clean-up a breeze
A comforting and satisfying meal perfect for any night

Unlocking the Flavor of Feta

Feta cheese not only adds creaminess but also a bright, tangy flavor that elevates the entire dish. As it bakes, the feta softens and slightly browns, blending its salty notes with the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables. The key is to use a quality feta, preferably made from sheep's milk, which provides a richer taste compared to cow's milk varieties. Crumbling the feta before adding ensures even distribution, allowing every bite to be infused with its unique character.

Additionally, feta acts as a flavor enhancer for the chicken as it roasts. The melting cheese drips down onto the chicken thighs, creating a deliciously savory glaze that not only keeps the meat moist but also delivers a burst of Mediterranean flavor. For those who prefer a milder option, goat cheese can be substituted, but keep in mind it will alter the flavor profile somewhat.

Vegetable Selection and Preparation

The choice of vegetables significantly influences the dish's texture and flavor. Red onions bring a sweet and slightly pungent bite, while bell peppers add color and crunch. Cherry tomatoes not only burst with juiciness but also caramelize during roasting, creating a wonderful sauce that mingles with the other ingredients. If you're looking to mix things up, consider adding zucchini or eggplant for extra heartiness, adjusting the cooking time if necessary to ensure everything is tender and roasted evenly.

A good tip is to cut the vegetables into similar sizes to promote even cooking. Place denser vegetables, such as bell peppers, closer to the chicken to ensure everything finishes cooking at the same time. Keeping an eye on the roasting process will help avoid overcooked or undercooked ingredients, as you want the veggies to retain a bit of their natural texture while still being soft.

Serving Suggestions and Make-Ahead Tips

While this Mediterranean Feta Chicken Tray Bake can stand alone beautifully, consider serving it alongside a light salad or some crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. A refreshing cucumber and tomato salad dressed with olive oil and lemon can balance the richness of the dish perfectly. Alternatively, you could serve it over a bed of quinoa for added nutrition and texture, creating a wholesome meal that's both satisfying and delicious.

If you're looking to prep ahead, the chicken can be marinated with the spices and olive oil a few hours or even a day in advance. Simply cover it tightly in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook. The vegetables can be chopped ahead as well—just store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. This makes for a quick assembly on busy nights, allowing you to enjoy a home-cooked meal without the last-minute rush.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started on this delightful dish:

Ingredients

4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
200g feta cheese, crumbled
1 red onion, sliced
1 bell pepper, sliced
250g cherry tomatoes, halved
100g Kalamata olives, pitted
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Once you have the ingredients ready, you can proceed to the cooking steps!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Mediterranean Feta Chicken Tray Bake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Drizzle olive oil over them and massage the seasoning into the meat.

Arrange the Vegetables

In a large baking tray, add the sliced onion, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and olives. Pour in any remaining olive oil and toss to combine.

Add Chicken and Feta

Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the vegetables. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over everything.

Bake the Dish

Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.

Garnish and Serve

Once done, remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy your Mediterranean feast!

This easy-to-follow recipe will bring the flavors of the Mediterranean into your kitchen!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the dish before baking. This simple addition will elevate the flavor profile and delight those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find that your chicken isn't cooking evenly, check the thickness of the thighs and remove them from the tray if they're significantly thicker than the other pieces. Ensuring even sizes helps avoid drying out some pieces while others remain undercooked. If you notice that the vegetables are browning too quickly, you can cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil halfway through the cooking time, allowing the chicken to finish cooking without over-roasting the veggies.

In case your dish is lacking moisture after baking, this can sometimes happen due to varying oven efficiencies. You can rectify this by adding a splash of chicken broth or white wine to the tray for the last ten minutes of cooking, ensuring everything stays juicy and flavorful.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, and the flavors will often deepen and meld together, making it even more delicious. If you'd like to keep it longer, freezing is an option as well. Just make sure to let the chicken cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be kept for up to three months, though for the best quality, try to consume it within one month.

When reheating, use the oven for best results to maintain the crispiness of the chicken skin. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. If using a microwave, use short bursts of heat to avoid making the chicken rubbery; cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breast, but keep in mind that they may dry out faster than thighs. Consider adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

→ What vegetables can I substitute?

Feel free to use any seasonal vegetables you like, such as zucchini or eggplant, to make this dish your own!

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to a day. Simply bake it when ready to serve.