Name: Best Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-487925H43M18S
Total time: PT-487925H43M18S
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 medium zucchinis, sliced; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup black olives, pitted and sliced; 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese; 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 lemon, sliced into wedges (for garnish); Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Best Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake brings together the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean in a simple, healthy, and satisfying one-pan meal. This dish combines juicy chicken with tender zucchini, all baked in a delicious blend of olive oil, garlic, and Mediterranean herbs. It’s a perfect balance of flavors, offering a light yet hearty option that is both nutritious and full of flavor. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and doesn’t require many ingredients—ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep!

Best Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe

Ingredients

2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
2 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
1 lemon, sliced (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
Prepare the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Place them in the prepared baking dish.
Arrange the Zucchini: Place the sliced zucchini around the chicken breasts in the baking dish. Drizzle a bit more olive oil over the zucchini and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Add Mediterranean Toppings: Scatter the crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and sun-dried tomatoes over the chicken and zucchini.
Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the zucchini is tender. If you prefer the top of the chicken to be slightly browned, you can broil it for the last 2-3 minutes.
Serve: Garnish the dish with fresh parsley and lemon slices before serving. Enjoy with a side of rice or quinoa, or simply on its own for a low-carb meal.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Add Other Vegetables: Feel free to add other Mediterranean vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or red onions to the dish for more color and flavor.
Chicken Thighs: You can substitute chicken breasts with bone-in, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier result.
Low-Carb Version: For a low-carb option, serve this dish with cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
Dairy-Free: To make the recipe dairy-free, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute with a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover chicken and zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: You can freeze this dish by allowing it to cool completely, then wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and placing it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but the cooking time will be longer. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.

Can I use other vegetables besides zucchini?

Absolutely! You can swap zucchini for other Mediterranean vegetables such as eggplant, bell peppers, or even asparagus.

How do I make this dish spicier?

If you like a bit of spice, add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix or sprinkle them over the vegetables before baking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time by assembling everything and storing it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?

Yes, you can grill the chicken if you prefer a smoky flavor. Simply grill the chicken breasts until fully cooked and then serve with the sautéed zucchini and toppings.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Can I add a different type of cheese instead of feta?

You can substitute the feta with goat cheese, ricotta, or even mozzarella for a different twist on the flavor.

How can I make this recipe more filling?

To make the dish more filling, you can serve it with rice, couscous, or quinoa for a complete meal. Alternatively, you can add more protein by using additional chicken breasts or pairing the dish with a side of beans.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs?

Yes, fresh herbs like basil and oregano will add a more vibrant flavor. Use about 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs in place of the dried ones.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for fully cooked chicken.

Conclusion

The Best Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a flavorful and healthy dish that will satisfy your taste buds without weighing you down. With the juicy chicken, tender zucchini, and Mediterranean toppings, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that can be made in under an hour. It’s versatile, easy to make, and perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or serving at gatherings. Enjoy this vibrant and delicious dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean to your kitchen!