This Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a tasty and colorful dish. It features juicy chicken, fresh zucchini, and flavorful spices all baked together for a great meal!
I love how simple this dish is to prepare—it all goes in one pan! Plus, it’s healthy and makes for easy leftovers, just reheat and enjoy again. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep it simple and convenient. You can also use chicken thighs for juicier meat, or even turkey breast if you prefer.
Zucchini: Medium zucchinis work best for this bake. If they’re not available, yellow squash can be a great alternative, adding a slightly different flavor but keeping the dish light.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a tangy kick. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try a plant-based feta, or simply omit it for a lighter version.
Kalamata Olives: These provide a salty bite. If you don’t have them, any pitted olives will do, like green olives. You could skip them if you’re not an olive fan!
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken is Tender and Juicy?
Cooking chicken to the right temperature is key for tenderness. Here’s how to ensure it comes out perfectly:
- Preheat the oven well before starting to cook.
- Arrange the chicken in a single layer to allow even cooking.
- Using a meat thermometer is a great way to ensure it’s done—look for 165°F (74°C).
- Let it rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps keep the juices inside for a moist bite.
Trust me, with these tips, your chicken will be both juicy and tasty!
Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bake:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
- 1 large red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 medium red onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
For the Seasoning:
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Juice of half a lemon
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to bake. So, in roughly 40 minutes, you’ll have a healthy meal that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s hot and ready for baking!
2. Arrange the Chicken:
In a large baking dish, place the chicken breasts evenly. This helps them cook uniformly, ensuring every piece is juicy and tender.
3. Add Vegetables:
Now it’s time to scatter the sliced zucchinis, chopped red bell pepper, red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, and Kalamata olives around the chicken. This colorful array will be the heart of your Mediterranean flavors!
4. Drizzle and Season:
Next, drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the chicken and veggies. It’s time to sprinkle the minced garlic, oregano, basil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper evenly over everything. These are the magic flavors that will come together as they bake!
5. Toss Gently:
With a light hand, gently toss the vegetables around the chicken to make sure they’re coated with all that delicious oil and seasoning. Be careful not to disturb the chicken pieces!
6. Bake It:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the veggies are tender.
7. Add Feta and Garnish:
Once it’s out of the oven, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top for a creamy, salty finish. If you’d like, garnish with some freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dig in while it’s warm! This dish is perfect on its own or served with a side of rice or crusty bread to soak up the flavors.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Substitute Chicken Thighs for Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative if you prefer more flavorful and juicier meat. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if your thighs are larger—they may take a few extra minutes to reach the proper internal temperature.
What Can I Use Instead of Feta Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute, try using goat cheese or a dairy-free feta alternative for a similar tangy flavor. You can even leave the cheese out completely for a lighter version!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative. Spinach, eggplant, or even roasted red peppers would work well in this dish. Just be mindful of cooking times to ensure everything is perfectly tender!
