Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake

If you’re looking for a wholesome and flavorful dinner, the Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a perfect choice. This dish combines tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and a blend of vibrant Mediterranean herbs and spices baked to perfection. It’s easy to prepare, healthy, and packed with savory goodness that will satisfy the whole family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Healthy and hearty: Loaded with lean protein and fresh vegetables.
• Easy to make: Minimal prep and one-pan baking for quick cleanup.
• Mediterranean flavors: Bright herbs and spices create a delicious, aromatic dish.
• Family-friendly: Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients for the Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large baking dish, drizzle olive oil and spread the minced garlic evenly.
3. Arrange the chicken breasts in the dish and season them with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and paprika.
4. Surround the chicken with sliced zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and Kalamata olives.
5. Drizzle a little more olive oil over the vegetables.
6. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
7. Remove from the oven and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top.
8. Return to the oven for another 5 minutes until the cheese is slightly melted.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.

Serving Tips

Serve your Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake hot and fresh from the oven to enjoy its full flavor and comforting texture:

• Classic plate: Serve directly with a side of fluffy couscous, or warm pita bread to soak up the savory juices.
• Grain pairing: Try it with lemony quinoa or herbed rice for a more filling meal.
• Fresh salad: Pair with a crisp cucumber-tomato salad or Greek-style salad with red onion and vinaigrette.
• Garnish boost: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley, crumbled feta, or a squeeze of lemon before serving.
• Mediterranean touch: Drizzle with a touch of olive oil or balsamic glaze right before serving for added depth.

Enjoy it with a glass of cold water infused with mint or lemon for a refreshing Mediterranean-style dinner experience.

Storage Tips

Store your Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake properly to maintain freshness and flavor:

• In the fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Let it cool completely before sealing.
• In the freezer: You can freeze baked portions for up to 1 month. Wrap individual servings tightly in foil or place them in a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10–15 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, but avoid overcooking to preserve texture.
• Pro tip: For best results, store feta separately if making in advance, and add fresh before serving.

Timing Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Optional Variations

• Protein swap: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for juicier results in the Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake.
• Vegetable boost: Add sliced bell peppers or eggplant for extra Mediterranean veggie goodness.
• Cheese options: Substitute feta with goat cheese or shredded mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Herb twist: Use fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme instead of dried oregano and basil.
• Low-carb option: Serve the Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake over cauliflower rice instead of grains.

Related Recipes

Here are 3 sweet treats you might also love:

• Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes
• Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers
• Zucchini and Tomato Gratin

Conclusion

The Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a flavorful, healthy, and easy-to-make dish that brings vibrant Mediterranean flavors to your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers comfort and nutrition in every bite. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious taste of the Mediterranean anytime!

FAQs

Q1: Can I use frozen zucchini for the Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake?
A1: It’s best to use fresh zucchini to avoid excess moisture that frozen zucchini can release, which might make the dish watery.

Q2: How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
A2: The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.

Q3: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A3: Yes! Simply omit the feta cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Q4: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A4: Absolutely, you can assemble it a few hours in advance and refrigerate before baking. Just add the feta cheese in the last 5 minutes of baking.

Q5: What can I serve with this bake?
A5: Couscous, quinoa, rice, or a fresh green salad are great accompaniments.

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