This Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a tasty one-pan meal! It features juicy chicken, fresh zucchini, and vibrant Mediterranean spices that really brighten up the dish.
Plus, it’s a breeze to make. I love tossing everything into the baking dish and letting the oven do the work while I relax. Perfect for busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I prefer boneless, skinless chicken for ease, but thighs could also work well if you want juiciness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist!
Zucchini: Fresh, medium zucchinis are great, but if they’re out of season, yellow squash or even eggplant can be used instead. They all soak up flavors wonderfully!
Kalamata Olives: These olives bring a strong Mediterranean flavor. If you don’t have them, green olives can be a nice alternative. Just keep in mind they may change the taste slightly.
Feta Cheese: Feta really adds creaminess and saltiness. If you want a dairy-free option, try crumbled tofu seasoned with lemon juice and salt or a vegan feta.
How Can I Ensure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting chicken right can be tricky! Here’s a simple way to ensure it’s perfectly cooked:
- Use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let it rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping it moist.
- For even cooking, try to flatten the chicken slightly or choose chicken breasts of consistent thickness.
Following these tips will help you achieve tender, juicy chicken every time, making your Mediterranean bake even better!
Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake will take approximately 10 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to cook, making the total time around 40 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for your delicious bake!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a large baking dish, place the chicken breasts. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil and lemon juice over the chicken. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and thyme, ensuring both sides are well-seasoned.
3. Arrange the Vegetables:
Now it’s time to add the fun colors and flavors! Arrange the sliced zucchini, halved cherry tomatoes, olives, red onion, and minced garlic evenly around and on top of the chicken breasts.
4. Add More Flavors:
Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the veggies and give them a light seasoning of salt and pepper. This will help all those veggie flavors shine!
5. Bake:
Bake the dish uncovered for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (165°F/75°C) and the vegetables are tender.
6. Finish with Feta:
Once baked, take the dish out of the oven and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over everything. Return it to the oven for another 5 minutes to let the feta melt slightly.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, add some freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot, and enjoy with a side of rice, quinoa, or some crusty bread for a complete meal!
Enjoy your flavorful and healthy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake! Bon Appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! While this recipe features zucchini and cherry tomatoes, feel free to swap in any seasonal vegetables you enjoy, such as bell peppers, spinach, or even eggplant. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
This recipe is already gluten-free! Just ensure that any additional ingredients you may add, such as bread or side dishes, are also gluten-free. Serve with quinoa or a gluten-free grain for a complete meal.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. For best results, add a splash of water to the dish before reheating to maintain moisture.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare everything (seasoning the chicken and arranging the veggies) a day in advance. Just cover the baking dish and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, remove it from the fridge, let it come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, then bake as directed.
