This Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a colorful and tasty dish! It features tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and a sprinkle of herbs that bring everything together beautifully.
It’s like a warm hug on a plate! I love how simple it is to throw together—just mix, bake, and enjoy. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious and healthy! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish as they cook evenly and soak up flavors. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey breasts work too. For a vegetarian alternative, try chickpeas or tofu instead!
Zucchini: Medium zucchinis add a nice texture. If you want some variety, yellow squash or eggplant can work well too. Just remember to adjust cooking times as needed since different veggies may take longer to cook.
Kalamata Olives: They add a briny flavor that complements the dish. If you have trouble finding them, green olives or black olives are good substitutes. Just use what you enjoy most!
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a creamy, tangy touch. You can replace it with goat cheese for a different flavor or omit it for a dairy-free dish. Nutritional yeast can also give a cheesy flavor without any dairy.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking the chicken just right is key for a tender bite. To ensure doneness:
- Make sure your oven is preheated before you start baking. This helps cook the chicken evenly.
- Check the chicken with a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after you take it out of the oven. This helps keep it juicy as it cools.
Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This bake takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 25-30 minutes of cooking time. So, you’ll have a yummy meal ready in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First things first, set your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s hot and ready for your delicious bake.
2. Arrange the Chicken:
In a large baking dish, place the chicken breasts evenly. Make sure there’s enough space between them so they all cook nicely.
3. Prepare the Veggies:
In a separate bowl, take the sliced zucchinis, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced olives, red onion, and minced garlic. Toss them together with the olive oil, dried oregano, dried basil, paprika, salt, and pepper until they’re well coated.
4. Combine and Spread:
Now, spread the flavorful vegetable mixture all around and on top of the chicken breasts in the baking dish. This will let all those yummy flavors mix together as they cook!
5. Sprinkle the Feta:
Next, evenly sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the entire dish. This is going to melt beautifully and add a creamy touch to the bake.
6. Bake It Up:
Pop the baking dish in the oven and let it bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked all the way through and the veggies are nice and tender.
7. Add a Fresh Touch:
Once it’s done, take it out from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley or basil to give it a bright flavor boost!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake warm, and for an extra treat, you can add a side of rice or some crusty bread to soak up all those delicious juices. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
Can I Use Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! This recipe is quite flexible. You can add or substitute with bell peppers, asparagus, or even spinach for a different flavor and texture. Just ensure the cooking times align with the vegetables you’re using.
What If I Don’t Have Feta Cheese?
No problem! If you’re out of feta, you can use goat cheese for a similar tangy flavor, or simply omit it for a dairy-free option. Nutritional yeast can also be used for a cheesy taste without the dairy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or warm it up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and vegetable mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just let it sit out for about 15-20 minutes to come to room temperature before putting it in the oven to bake.
