The Ultimate Greek Hummus Chicken Sheet Pan Bake

The Greek Hummus Chicken Sheet Pan Bake has quickly become a staple for home cooks who refuse to choose between a nutritious meal and a quick cleanup. This vibrant dish captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors, combining juicy protein, crisp vegetables, and a creamy hummus coating that acts as both a marinade and a built-in sauce. By utilizing a single sheet pan, you allow the juices from the chicken to mingle with the roasting vegetables, creating a depth of flavor that usually requires hours of simmering. Whether you are navigating a hectic weeknight or hosting a casual dinner with friends, this recipe offers a foolproof path to a healthy, satisfying, and aesthetically pleasing meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Chicken: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces.

• Hummus: 1 cup of your favorite classic or roasted garlic hummus.

• Vegetables: 1 large zucchini (sliced), 1 red bell pepper (chopped), 1 yellow bell pepper (chopped), and 1 red onion (wedged).

• Tomatoes: 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes.

• Oil & Seasoning: 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to taste.

• Garnish: ½ cup crumbled feta cheese, ¼ cup sliced Kalamata olives, and fresh parsley.

• Lemon: 1 whole lemon, half sliced into rounds and half for juicing.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a large, rimmed baking sheet with olive oil or line it with parchment paper for the easiest possible cleanup.

2. Season the Vegetables: In a large bowl, toss the zucchini, bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, the dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Spread them in an even layer across the baking sheet.

3. Coat the Chicken: In the same bowl (no need to wash it), toss the chicken pieces with the remaining olive oil and smoked paprika. Use a spoon or spatula to coat each piece of chicken generously with the hummus. The hummus should form a thick “crust” over the meat.

4. Arrange and Bake: Nestled the hummus-coated chicken among the vegetables on the sheet pan. Place the lemon slices on top of the chicken and vegetables. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.

5. Finish and Serve: Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and chopped parsley. Squeeze the remaining lemon half over the entire tray before serving.

The Secret Power of the Hummus Crust

The defining characteristic of this dish is the use of hummus as a cooking medium. While many recipes rely on heavy oils or cream-based sauces, hummus provides a heart-healthy alternative that serves a dual purpose. As the chicken roasts, the moisture from the chickpeas and tahini in the hummus locks in the natural juices of the meat, preventing the chicken from drying out—a common pitfall of sheet pan cooking.

Furthermore, the heat of the oven caramelizes the exterior of the hummus, creating a textured “crust” that is rich in garlic and Mediterranean spices. This eliminates the need for a complex marinade or a separate gravy. As the tray rests, the hummus slightly thins and mingles with the olive oil and vegetable juices, creating a light, savory sauce that coats every bite.

Customizing Your Mediterranean Medley

One of the reasons this recipe consistently ranks as a fan favorite is its incredible versatility. While the classic version uses bell peppers and zucchini, you can easily adapt the vegetable base to suit the season or what you have in your refrigerator. For a heartier version, add halved baby potatoes or chickpeas to the tray, though you may need to give the potatoes a 10-minute head start in the oven before adding the chicken.

If you prefer a bit of heat, consider using a spicy red pepper hummus or adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the vegetable toss. For those following specific dietary patterns, this meal is naturally gluten-free. To make it dairy-free or Paleo-friendly, simply omit the feta cheese. The richness of the hummus ensures you won’t feel like you’re missing out on flavor or texture.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

This Greek Hummus Chicken is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. To lean into the Mediterranean theme, serve it over a bed of fluffy quinoa, lemon-herb couscous, or warm orzo. If you are looking for a lower-carb option, a simple side of cauliflower rice or a crisp cucumber and mint salad provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, roasted flavors of the sheet pan.

This dish is also an exceptional candidate for meal prep. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the leftovers just as delicious the next day. Simply portion the chicken and vegetables into airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, a few minutes in a skillet or a quick zap in the microwave will bring the dish back to life, though the oven or an air fryer is best if you want to maintain the slightly crisp texture of the hummus crust.