Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake: A Wholesome Family Favorite
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a dish that’s bursting with Mediterranean flavors. This Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is not only an enticing weeknight dinner but also a colorful, vibrant feast that can bring the family together. As someone who’s always leaning towards healthy yet satisfying meals, this recipe quickly became a staple in my kitchen. The blend of juicy chicken, fresh vegetables, and zesty Mediterranean seasonings creates an unforgettable dish that’s surprisingly simple to prepare.
Why you’ll love this dish
Imagine a dinner that’s as beautiful as it is delicious – that’s what this Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake offers. This dish is incredibly versatile and is perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or even impressing guests. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can whip this up in under an hour. Not to mention, it’s healthy and budget-friendly, making it ideal for families and meal preppers alike.
"This Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake was a hit at our family dinner! Everyone was raving about the flavors, and it was so simple to make. I love how colorful it looks on the plate!" – Mary C.
Preparing Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
Cooking this delightful Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is straightforward and rewarding. You’ll begin by marinating the chicken in a herby olive oil mix, followed by roasting it alongside an array of fresh vegetables. The fusion of flavors comes together beautifully in one dish, making clean-up a breeze. Ready to dive into the process? Here’s a quick snapshot of what to expect:
- Marinate the chicken in a herby mixture.
- Prepare the vegetables and toss them with the remaining marinade.
- Layer the marinated chicken and vegetables in a baking dish and bake.
- Finish with a sprinkle of feta cheese for a creamy, tangy touch.
What you’ll need
Gather these ingredients to create a fabulous Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red onion, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Feel free to make substitutions if needed. For a lighter alternative, skinless chicken thighs could be used, or you could swap out feta for goat cheese if that’s your preference.
Step-by-step instructions
Let’s make this delicious Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake together! Follow these simple steps:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken breasts to the bowl, ensuring they’re well-coated in the marinade.
- Arrange the marinated chicken breasts in a baking dish.
- In the same bowl, toss the sliced zucchinis, red and yellow bell peppers, chopped red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced Kalamata olives with any remaining marinade.
- Spread the vegetable mixture evenly around the chicken in the baking dish.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
- Serve your Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake with lemon wedges on the side.
Best ways to enjoy it
This dish not only shines on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a side of fluffy couscous or a light Mediterranean quinoa salad. A crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can elevate the meal even further. For a cozy vibe, breadsticks or pita bread are fantastic too!
How to store
If you’re fortunate enough to have leftovers, here’s how to keep them fresh. Store the Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers – it can be stored for up to 2 months. Make sure to label them with the date!
Helpful cooking tips
- Marinating the chicken ahead of time (even overnight) can elevate the flavors, making each bite even more delightful.
- To add some crunch, consider roasting the vegetables briefly before mixing them with chicken; this enhances their natural sweetness.
- Experiment with fresh herbs! If you have rosemary or parsley on hand, adding them can bring a wonderful freshness to the dish.
Creative twists
There are so many possibilities to personalize this dish! You could add in seasonal vegetables like asparagus or carrots, swap out feta for a vegan cheese alternative, or even throw in a handful of spinach for added nutrition. Consider using different spices such as smoked paprika for a little heat, or adding a squeeze of balsamic vinegar for a sweeter touch.
Your questions answered
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a richer flavor and stay juicy during cooking.
Q: What other veggies can I include?
Feel free to get creative—broccoli, cauliflower, or even artichoke hearts would fit beautifully in this dish.
Q: How long does it take to prepare?
The preparation takes about 15 minutes, with a total cooking time of around 40-45 minutes.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prepping! You can easily make a big batch and store portions for the week ahead.
Now that you’re equipped with everything you need, roll up your sleeves and treat your taste buds to this delightful and vibrant Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake!
Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken breasts to the bowl, ensuring they’re well-coated in the marinade.
- Arrange the marinated chicken breasts in a baking dish.
- In the same bowl, toss the sliced zucchinis, red and yellow bell peppers, chopped red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced Kalamata olives with any remaining marinade.
- Spread the vegetable mixture evenly around the chicken in the baking dish.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
- Serve your Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake with lemon wedges on the side.
