Name: Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; ½ cup black olives, sliced; 2 large zucchinis, thinly sliced; ½ cup crumbled feta cheese; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 tbsp olive oil; ½ tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp dried oregano; ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1 tsp dried basil; Salt and pepper, to taste

If you’re searching for a delectable and easy-to-make dinner option, look no further than this Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake. This recipe celebrates the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean, bringing together tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. What makes it truly special is the infusion of bold tastes from crumbled feta cheese, black olives, and sun-dried tomatoes, all harmonized with aromatic herbs like oregano and basil. With just one pan, you’ll have a wholesome meal that’s perfect for both busy weeknights and family gatherings.

The beauty of this dish lies in its sheer simplicity. It’s not just another chicken recipe; it’s an experience of Mediterranean culinary artistry. The combination of juicy chicken and the slight crunch of zucchini brings a textural contrast that pleases the senses. Add to that the creamy, tangy aspects of feta cheese, and you’ve got a winner. Another reason to love this dish is its versatility: it blends easily with other vegetables if you prefer, making it customizable to your preferences without losing its core elegance.

Furthermore, the health benefits of this Mediterranean chicken bake cannot be overlooked. Chicken provides lean protein, zucchini delivers essential nutrients, and the olives and tomatoes offer heart-healthy fats and antioxidants. Plus, with minimal prep time and easy cleanup, it’s designed for those who appreciate good food without spending hours in the kitchen. Embrace the flavors and simplicity of this dish by adding it to your weekly menu!

Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake

One-pan wonder: Simplifies meal prep and cleanup, perfect for busy evenings.
Rich Mediterranean flavors: Combines savory, tangy, and umami tastes in every bite.
Nutritious: Packed with proteins and vitamins, it’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
Customizable: Easy to adapt with other veggies or spices that you love.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you embark on this delightful culinary journey, it’s vital to prepare your kitchen and ingredients. Start by ensuring you have a spacious and efficient workspace, as organization is the key to a stress-free cooking experience. Gather all the ingredients and tools beforehand. You’ll need a large greased baking dish to accommodate the chicken and veggies comfortably. It’s important to have a sharp knife for chopping the vegetables and sun-dried tomatoes.

A digital meat thermometer is essential for ensuring that your chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature. You’ll also want to have measuring spoons on hand to precisely add seasonings like garlic powder and herbs. Lastly, don’t forget a sturdy spatula to easily transfer the baked goodness onto your plates. Once your prep space is set, you can dive into the bliss of creating a lovely Mediterranean meal.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
½ cup black olives, sliced
2 large zucchinis, thinly sliced
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried oregano
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare it for baking. Take the boneless, skinless chicken breasts and rub them with olive oil. This not only helps in binding the spices but also keeps the chicken moist during cooking. Sprinkle garlic powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper over the chicken to infuse it with robust Mediterranean flavors.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Place the seasoned chicken in a greased baking dish. Arrange the sliced zucchinis, cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, and sliced olives around the chicken. This setup ensures that the juices from the vegetables enhance the chicken by keeping it tender and juicy.

Step 3: Bake and Finish

Put the baking dish in the preheated oven. Allow it to bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until a digital meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken reads 165°F (74°C). This is vital to confirm that the chicken is cooked perfectly and safe to eat. In the last few minutes of baking, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top, allowing it to melt slightly onto the ingredients below. Serve the dish hot, optionally garnished with fresh parsley for an extra hint of color and freshness.

Variations

Protein: Consider using turkey breasts or tofu for a different but delightful protein twist.
Vegetables: Substitute or add bell peppers, eggplant, or artichokes for more variety and texture.
Spices: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or a hint of rosemary for more depth.

Cooking Notes

Ensure the zucchini slices are even to cook uniformly alongside the chicken.
If using bone-in chicken, adjust baking time accordingly to prevent dryness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of fluffy couscous or quinoa to soak up the Mediterranean juices.
A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the dish’s flavors beautifully.

Tips

To prevent overcooking, check the chicken’s temperature five minutes before the suggested baking time is up.
For extra crispiness, broil the dish for 2-3 minutes after baking.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 360 per serving
Protein: 30g per serving
Sodium: 700mg per serving

FAQs

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day before and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to bake.

What other cheese can I try?

Pecorino Romano or goat cheese are excellent substitutes if you’re looking for something different than feta.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Simply skip the feta cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative to still enjoy this flavorful dish.

Is it possible to cook this on the grill?

Yes, you can grill the chicken and vegetables separately and then combine them with feta on a grill-safe dish to fuse the flavors.

Conclusion

The Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to explore vibrant flavors, nutrition, and simplicity in your kitchen. Whether you’re feeding your family or impressing guests, this dish remains a top choice. Its adaptability allows you to incorporate new ingredients, providing endless possibilities while staying true to its Mediterranean roots. I encourage you to try this one-pan wonder and dive into its delicious simplicity.