Zesty Mediterranean Sheet Pan Chicken

Welcome to a culinary journey that brings the vibrant, fresh flavors of the Mediterranean right into your kitchen with this incredibly easy and delicious Mediterranean Chicken Bake. Imagine succulent chicken, roasted to perfection alongside a medley of colorful, tender-crisp vegetables, all bathed in a zesty, aromatic marinade. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience – wholesome, deeply satisfying, and remarkably simple to prepare. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something nutritious yet effortlessly flavorful, this one-pan wonder promises a delightful dinner without the fuss.

The beauty of Mediterranean cuisine lies in its emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients and robust, natural flavors. Our Mediterranean Chicken Bake embodies this philosophy, combining tender chicken with sun-kissed tomatoes, earthy potatoes, crisp bell peppers, sweet red onions, and the distinctive briny notes of Kalamata olives. Infused with classic Italian herbs, bright lemon, and rich olive oil, every bite transports you to the sun-drenched coasts of the Mediterranean. It’s a complete, balanced meal that requires minimal hands-on time, allowing you to relax while your oven does all the hard work.

A plate of golden-brown Mediterranean chicken thighs surrounded by roasted vegetables like potatoes, bell peppers, asparagus, and cherry tomatoes, garnished with fresh parsley and Kalamata olives.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary adventures, this simple Mediterranean Chicken Tray Bake recipe is designed for success. It’s ideal for anyone looking for a hearty, healthy, and filling dinner solution. The marinated chicken, often referred to as Chicken Kalamata due to the generous inclusion of these flavorful olives, becomes incredibly juicy and tender, complementing the perfectly roasted vegetables. This dish offers a fantastic way to enjoy a wide array of vegetables in one go, making it a truly balanced and vibrant meal.

If you’re a fan of fuss-free, delicious baked chicken recipes, you’ll love exploring other options like my Honey Sriracha Baked Chicken Breast, Baked Chicken Breast with Mushrooms, or the incredibly flavorful Best Baked Chimichurri Chicken. Each offers a unique twist on baked chicken, but none quite capture the rustic, wholesome charm of this Mediterranean rendition.

Why This Baked Mediterranean Chicken Will Become Your New Favorite

There are countless reasons why this Baked Mediterranean Chicken recipe stands out as a must-try. Beyond its incredible taste, it offers unparalleled convenience and nutritional benefits, making it a staple for any home cook.

Explosively Flavorful: This isn’t your average bland baked chicken. The secret lies in a meticulously crafted marinade, bursting with the authentic tastes of the Mediterranean. A harmonious blend of aromatic dried herbs like basil and oregano, sharp garlic, bright lemon juice, a hint of red wine vinegar, and rich olive oil penetrates every piece of chicken and vegetable. This infusion creates a depth of flavor that is both savory and slightly tangy, guaranteeing an unforgettable culinary experience with every forkful. The spices caramelize beautifully in the oven, adding a delicious crust and enhancing the overall taste profile.
Effortlessly Simple: Say goodbye to complicated recipes with endless steps and multiple pots and pans. This is the epitome of an “oven-and-forget-it” meal. After a quick initial preparation, which primarily involves marinating the chicken and chopping your chosen vegetables, everything gets tossed together in a single baking dish. Pop it into the oven, set a timer, and you’re free to attend to other tasks, or simply relax. This hands-off approach makes it perfect for busy weeknights when time is precious but you still want a homemade, wholesome meal.
A Complete & Balanced Meal: Forget about cooking separate side dishes. This Mediterranean Chicken Bake is truly an all-in-one solution. You have your lean protein from the chicken, complex carbohydrates from the hearty potatoes, and a rainbow of essential vitamins and minerals from the variety of fresh vegetables. Everything cooks together, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a cohesive and nutritionally complete meal. It’s designed to provide a balanced plate without any extra effort.
Highly Versatile and Customizable: One of the greatest advantages of this recipe is its flexibility. While the core ingredients create a classic Mediterranean profile, you can easily adapt it to your preferences or what you have on hand. Don’t have asparagus? Use green beans! Prefer sweet potatoes over baby potatoes? Go for it! This adaptability ensures that the recipe can be enjoyed repeatedly without becoming monotonous, and it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover produce.
Family-Friendly & Crowd-Pleasing: The rich, savory flavors and wholesome ingredients appeal to almost everyone, making it a fantastic meal for families. It’s also incredibly easy to scale up for entertaining guests. Simply use a larger baking dish and adjust the quantities to feed a crowd, ensuring everyone gets a generous portion of this comforting and impressive dish.

Essential Mediterranean Chicken Ingredients

Crafting the perfect Mediterranean Chicken Bake starts with selecting fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the layered flavors and inviting textures of this delightful dish. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:

Fresh ingredients laid out for a Mediterranean baked chicken recipe, including raw chicken thighs, lemon, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, various vegetables, and Kalamata olives.

Chicken: For the most succulent and flavorful results, we highly recommend using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. The bone helps to conduct heat evenly, keeping the meat moist, while the skin crisps up beautifully, adding a delicious texture and extra flavor. However, feel free to substitute with your favorite chicken cut, such as boneless, skinless thighs for a leaner option, or even chicken breasts, though you might need to adjust baking times to prevent them from drying out.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is paramount here. It provides a bright, acidic counterpoint to the rich chicken and savory vegetables, cutting through the richness and elevating all the other flavors. Bottled lemon juice simply won’t deliver the same vibrant punch.
Olive Oil: A staple of Mediterranean cooking, good quality olive oil is essential for the marinade. It helps to tenderize the chicken, carry the flavors of the herbs and spices, and ensure the vegetables roast perfectly with a golden-brown finish. While extra virgin olive oil is excellent for flavor, a lighter, neutral-flavored olive oil can also be used if preferred, especially for roasting at higher temperatures.
Red Wine Vinegar: This adds another layer of tangy acidity and a subtle fruity note to the marinade. If you don’t have red wine vinegar on hand, balsamic vinegar, white wine vinegar, or even apple cider vinegar can be used as effective substitutes, each offering a slightly different but equally delicious profile.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is a cornerstone of Mediterranean flavors. Its pungent aroma and sweet, savory taste infuse the entire dish, creating an irresistible depth. Don’t skimp on the garlic – it makes a huge difference!
Seasoning: A classic blend of dried basil, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper forms the aromatic backbone of this dish. These herbs are synonymous with Mediterranean cuisine and provide that characteristic savory, earthy, and slightly sweet flavor. Feel free to adjust quantities to your taste or add a pinch of dried thyme or rosemary for additional complexity.
Asparagus: These slender green spears add a fresh, slightly bitter, and sweet note when roasted. Remember to trim off the woody ends for the best texture. If asparagus isn’t in season, green beans or even broccoli florets make excellent alternatives.
Potatoes: Small, waxy baby potatoes are ideal for this bake as they roast beautifully and absorb the marinade’s flavors. If using larger potatoes (like Yukon Gold or red potatoes), ensure you halve or quarter them into roughly 1-inch pieces for even cooking alongside the chicken.
Onion: Red onion, cut into wedges, not only adds a beautiful color but also sweetens and mellows considerably when roasted, contributing a wonderful depth of flavor. Sweet or yellow onions can be used as alternatives, though red onions offer a slightly sharper raw flavor that transforms delightfully in the oven.
Bell Peppers: Cubed red bell peppers bring sweetness and a pop of vibrant color. Any color of bell pepper can be used – yellow, orange, or even green for a slightly more bitter note – allowing for great customization based on preference and availability.
Chicken Broth: A splash of chicken broth is crucial for keeping the chicken moist and preventing the dish from drying out during baking. It also combines with the marinade to create a flavorful pan sauce that coats the vegetables and chicken beautifully. Use low-sodium broth if you’re mindful of salt intake.
Tomatoes: Cherry or grape tomatoes are perfect for this recipe. They burst with sweet, juicy flavor when roasted, adding a lovely tang and freshness to the final dish. Add them towards the end of cooking to prevent them from becoming too mushy.
Kalamata Olives: The star of the “Chicken Kalamata” aspect! These meaty, briny, and slightly fruity Greek olives are a signature Mediterranean ingredient. They add a deep, savory, and salty flavor that complements the chicken and vegetables perfectly. Pit them if they aren’t already, or chop them for a more distributed flavor.
Parsley: A generous sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley as a garnish provides a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor and a beautiful green contrast, tying all the vibrant components together just before serving.

How To Master This Mediterranean Chicken Tray Bake

Creating this delightful Mediterranean Chicken Tray Bake is straightforward, broken down into simple steps that even beginner cooks can follow with confidence. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this vibrant, one-pan meal!

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven for Success. Begin by preheating your oven to a steady 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature when you place your dish inside, promoting even cooking and optimal browning. A properly preheated oven is key to achieving that perfect roast on both the chicken and vegetables.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken. Take your bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. Thoroughly clean them under cold running water and then pat them completely dry with a kitchen towel. Removing excess moisture is crucial for achieving crispy skin and allowing the marinade to adhere effectively. Set the chicken aside on a plate while you prepare the marinade.

A bowl containing a freshly made Mediterranean marinade mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, and dried herbs.

Step 3: Whisk Up the Flavorful Marinade. In a medium-sized bowl, combine all the vibrant marinade ingredients: fresh lemon juice, good quality olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk everything together thoroughly until well combined. This aromatic mixture is the heart of your Mediterranean flavors, ready to infuse your chicken with incredible taste.

Raw chicken thighs marinating in a glass dish, covered with a bright, herb-infused Mediterranean marinade.

Step 4: Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor. Place the prepared chicken thighs in a shallow dish or a large resealable bag. Pour approximately half of the freshly made marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Gently toss or massage the marinade into the chicken. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator. For an even deeper flavor penetration and tenderness, you can marinate it overnight (up to 8-12 hours). Reserve the other half of the marinade for the vegetables.

A two-part image showing Mediterranean chicken with vegetables before baking (raw) and after baking (golden and cooked), with Kalamata olives and cherry tomatoes.

Step 5: Assemble and Begin Baking. Once marinated, transfer the chicken thighs to a 9×13 inch baking dish, arranging them in a single layer. Around the chicken, evenly spread your prepped vegetables: asparagus spears, baby potatoes, red onion wedges, and cubed bell peppers. Pour the chicken broth and the *remaining* reserved marinade over the vegetables, ensuring they are nicely coated. Place the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for an initial 20 minutes at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). This initial bake allows the vegetables to start softening and the chicken to begin cooking.
Step 6: Add Tomatoes and Continue Baking. After the initial 20 minutes, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Evenly scatter the cherry or grape tomatoes and the Kalamata olives over the chicken and vegetables. Return the dish to the oven and continue baking for another 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) when checked with a meat thermometer. The vegetables should be tender and slightly caramelized.
Step 7: Achieve Golden, Crispy Skin (Optional but Recommended). For that irresistible golden, crispy chicken skin, move the oven rack closer to the broiler element and switch your oven to broil (high setting). Broil for an additional 3-5 minutes, carefully watching to prevent burning. The skin will turn a beautiful golden-brown and become wonderfully crisp. This step adds a fantastic textural contrast to the tender meat and vegetables.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve Warm. Once the chicken bake is out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes. Then, generously garnish with fresh chopped parsley. The vibrant green not only adds a burst of fresh flavor but also makes the dish visually appealing. Serve immediately while everything is wonderfully warm, allowing everyone to savor the incredible Mediterranean flavors.

Expert Tips for the Best Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Achieving a consistently perfect Easy Chicken Bake every time is simple with these expert tips. These small adjustments can make a big difference in flavor, texture, and overall enjoyment of your meal.

Prioritize Marination Time: While you *can* skip marinating in a pinch, allowing the chicken to soak in that flavorful blend for at least an hour (or ideally, 2-4 hours, or even overnight) will yield significantly more tender and flavorful meat. The acids in the lemon juice and vinegar help to break down the chicken fibers, making it incredibly succulent.
Experiment with Chicken Cuts: We’ve highlighted bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for their flavor and moisture retention, but this recipe is adaptable. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or even chicken breasts can be used. If using breasts, consider cutting them into thicker pieces or pounding them slightly to ensure they cook evenly and don’t dry out. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Embrace Vegetable Versatility: This recipe is a blank canvas for your favorite vegetables. Feel free to swap or add ingredients based on seasonal availability and personal preference. Great additions include zucchini, eggplant, mushrooms, green beans, or even sweet potatoes. Just ensure all vegetables are cut into roughly similar-sized pieces for even roasting.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: For perfectly roasted, slightly caramelized vegetables and crispy chicken skin, avoid overcrowding your baking dish. If you’re doubling the recipe or using a lot of vegetables, use two separate baking dishes or a larger sheet pan to allow for proper air circulation. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of roasting, resulting in soggy vegetables.
The Feta Finish: For an extra layer of authentic Mediterranean flavor and a delightful creamy, salty tang, sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese over the dish during the last 10 minutes of baking or right after it comes out of the oven. The warmth will slightly soften the feta, enhancing its creamy texture.
Always Check Internal Temperature: The most crucial tip for food safety and optimal texture is to always use a reliable meat thermometer. Chicken should be cooked to a minimum internal temperature of 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) at its thickest part. This ensures it’s safe to eat and perfectly cooked – no more guessing!
Feeding a Crowd? Double Up: This recipe is incredibly easy to scale. If you’re hosting a dinner party or meal prepping for the week, simply use a larger baking dish or two standard dishes and double all the ingredients. The cooking time might increase slightly, so rely on your meat thermometer for doneness.
Resting Time is Key: Once out of the oven, let the chicken bake rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices in the chicken to redistribute, resulting in more tender and moist meat. It also gives the flavors a moment to fully meld together.

A close-up shot of a single serving of Mediterranean baked chicken, featuring juicy chicken and tender roasted vegetables, garnished with olives and fresh herbs, ready to be enjoyed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Here are answers to some common questions you might have about making, serving, and storing your Mediterranean Chicken Bake.

Is this Mediterranean Chicken dish healthy?

Absolutely! This Mediterranean Chicken Bake is a powerhouse of nutrition. It’s packed with lean protein from the chicken, essential vitamins and antioxidants from a wide array of vegetables, and healthy fats from olive oil and olives. It’s naturally low-carb and gluten-free, making it an excellent choice for various dietary preferences, including keto, Whole30, and Paleo diets. It provides sustained energy and supports overall well-being.

Should I cover chicken while baking?

For this recipe, it’s generally best to leave the chicken uncovered while baking. Covering the dish would trap steam, causing the chicken and vegetables to steam rather than roast and caramelize. Leaving it uncovered allows the heat to circulate freely, promoting beautiful browning on the chicken skin and delicious caramelization on the vegetables, resulting in superior flavor and texture. If you notice the chicken browning too quickly, you can loosely tent it with foil, but typically it’s not necessary.

How do I tell when chicken is done?

Relying solely on baking time can be misleading, as oven temperatures can vary significantly. The most accurate way to determine if your chicken is done is by using a digital meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken thigh, avoiding the bone. The chicken is safely cooked when it reaches a minimum internal temperature of 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). The juices should also run clear when pierced with a knife.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can certainly substitute chicken breasts for thighs. If using boneless, skinless chicken breasts, consider cutting them into larger chunks or leaving them whole (depending on size) and adjusting the cooking time. Chicken breasts tend to cook faster and can dry out more easily than thighs. You might want to pull them out a little earlier or ensure they are well-coated in the marinade to retain moisture. Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F.

What if I don’t have Kalamata olives?

While Kalamata olives offer a distinct, rich flavor that is characteristic of this dish, you can substitute them with other briny olives if needed. Good alternatives include black olives (such as Niçoise or Greek black olives), green olives, or even a mix of Mediterranean olives. The flavor profile will shift slightly, but the overall essence of the dish will remain. Ensure they are pitted for ease of eating.

How do I store and reheat baked Mediterranean Chicken?

To store leftovers, allow the chicken and vegetables to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For reheating, you can warm individual portions in the microwave, but for best results (especially for crispy skin), reheat in the oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also use a skillet on the stovetop for smaller portions, ensuring the chicken is cooked through.

Can I freeze this Chicken Bake?

Yes, this Mediterranean Chicken Bake freezes quite well. Once cooled, transfer the chicken and vegetables to a freezer-safe bag or an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, defrost it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat thawed portions in the oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) until heated through, which usually takes about 20-30 minutes. Freezing might slightly alter the texture of some vegetables, but the flavors will still be delicious.

What to serve with Mediterranean Chicken Bake?

This chicken bake is truly a complete meal on its own, offering a perfect balance of protein, carbs, and vegetables. However, if you wish to extend the meal or add an extra touch, it pairs beautifully with a few simple sides. A crusty piece of No Knead Artisan Bread is fantastic for soaking up the delicious pan juices. Alternatively, a light and refreshing Lemon Herb Mediterranean Pasta Salad or a classic Mozzarella Caprese Salad would complement the flavors wonderfully. For a heartier side, consider a simple quinoa pilaf or couscous.

Close up view of the finished Mediterranean Chicken Bake with roasted chicken, olives, and a mix of colorful vegetables, served directly from the baking dish.

Explore More Mediterranean Delights

If you’ve fallen in love with the vibrant and wholesome flavors of this Mediterranean Chicken Bake, you’ll be thrilled to discover more recipes that capture the essence of this incredibly healthy and delicious cuisine. Expand your culinary repertoire with these other fantastic Mediterranean-inspired dishes:

Grilled Mediterranean Chicken Salad: A light, refreshing, and protein-packed salad perfect for lunch or a lighter dinner.
Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken: Chicken breasts generously filled with a savory blend of Mediterranean ingredients.
Lemon Herb Mediterranean Chicken: Another delightful baked chicken recipe, focusing on bright lemon and fresh herbs.
Lemon Herb Mediterranean Pasta Salad: A vibrant pasta salad bursting with zesty flavors and fresh vegetables.
Mediterranean Veggie Pizza: A healthier pizza option topped with an abundance of fresh Mediterranean vegetables.
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A wholesome and filling salad featuring protein-rich quinoa and classic Mediterranean ingredients.

We hope you enjoy embarking on these delightful culinary adventures with all the recipes shared, especially this fantastic Mediterranean Chicken Bake. We pour our heart into creating dishes that are not only delicious but also simple and inspiring for your kitchen.

If you try this recipe and love it as much as we do, please consider leaving a star rating and a comment below. Your feedback truly helps us grow and encourages other home cooks to discover these wonderful meals. Don’t forget to share your delicious creations on Instagram using our hashtag so we can celebrate your cooking success! Also, make sure to follow Cookin’ With Mima on FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, and PINTEREST for all our latest social posts, kitchen tips, and new recipes. Happy cooking!

A spoon picks up a juicy chicken thigh from a Mediterranean bake.

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5 from 1 vote

Mediterranean Chicken Bake

By:
Mariam Ezzeddine

This delightful Mediterranean Chicken Bake is a perfect combination of succulent chicken, an abundance of fresh vegetables, and the briny goodness of Kalamata olives, all seasoned with savory Italian herbs. It’s a hearty, healthy, and filling one-dish meal that’s incredibly simple to prepare, making it ideal for any night of the week.

Prep Time:

15
minutes

Cook Time:

45
minutes

Total Time:

1
hour

Servings:

4
Servings

Ingredients

8 whole Chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
½ cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
¼ cup olive oil (good quality)
2 tablespoon red wine vinegar (or balsamic, white wine, or apple cider vinegar)
2 tbsps garlic, minced (fresh is best)
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked)
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon ground pepper (freshly ground for best aroma)
10-12 spears asparagus, ends trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces if desired
10-12 pieces baby potatoes (halved or quartered if larger)
1 medium red onion, cut into wedges
1 small red bell pepper, cubed (or any color bell pepper)
1 cup chicken broth (low sodium recommended)
1 cup cherry tomatoes (or grape tomatoes)
½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional: Crumbled feta cheese for serving

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Thoroughly clean the chicken thighs and pat them completely dry with a kitchen towel to ensure crispy skin. Set aside.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the marinade ingredients: lemon juice, olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Place the dried chicken thighs in a shallow dish or a large resealable bag. Pour half of the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to 8-12 hours for maximum flavor. Reserve the remaining marinade for the vegetables.
Once marinated, transfer the chicken thighs to the prepared 9×13 inch baking dish, arranging them in a single layer. Evenly spread the chopped asparagus, baby potatoes, red onion wedges, and cubed bell peppers around and over the chicken.
Pour the chicken broth and the remaining half of the marinade over the vegetables and chicken in the baking dish.
Bake for an initial 20 minutes at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
After 20 minutes, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Scatter the cherry tomatoes and Kalamata olives over the chicken and vegetables. Return to the oven and continue baking for another 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) and the vegetables are tender and lightly browned.
For extra crispy chicken skin, switch your oven to broil (on high) for 3-5 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. The skin should turn golden and crisp.
Remove from the oven, garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley, and serve immediately while warm. Enjoy your homemade Mediterranean masterpiece!

Notes

Marinating the chicken for at least an hour significantly enhances flavor and tenderness. Don’t skip it if time allows!
Feel free to customize with your favorite chicken cut; just remember to adjust cooking times.
Add any seasonal vegetables you love, ensuring they are cut to similar sizes for even roasting.
For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the dish during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Always confirm doneness with a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
This recipe doubles easily to feed a larger crowd. Use a bigger baking dish or two standard dishes.
Allow the dish to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking for juicier chicken.

Nutrition

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