This Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a colorful dish packed with tender chicken and fresh veggies. The mix of herbs and cheeses adds a yummy flavor that everyone will love!
It’s a breeze to make too! I just layer everything in a baking dish, pop it in the oven, and relax while it cooks. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This is the star veggie! You can also use yellow squash or a mix of both if you like a little variety. They both cook similarly and add a lovely color.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great here. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs are a fantastic substitute that will be juicier!
Kalamata Olives: These olives give a nice briny flavor. If you can’t find them, green olives or black olives can be used instead, though the taste will differ a bit.
Feta Cheese: The crumbled feta adds a tangy richness. You could swap it for goat cheese or omit it for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
To keep the chicken moist, avoid overbaking it. The cooking times provided should be followed closely. Covering with foil traps steam, helping to keep the chicken tender. Also, let it rest a few minutes after baking before serving; this allows the juices to redistribute.
- Brush the chicken well with the olive oil and herb mixture for added moisture.
- Using an instant-read thermometer can help ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked at 165°F (75°C).
Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bake:
- 3 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lemon
For the Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious bake will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 35-40 minutes to cook. So, you’ll be enjoying your meal in just under an hour—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’s nice and hot for when you’re ready to bake!
2. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Take a baking dish and lightly grease it with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier!
3. Mix the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Stir it all together until well mixed.
4. Add the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in the greased baking dish. Use a brush or spoon to coat both sides of the chicken with the herb and garlic mixture. This will give it amazing flavor!
5. Layer the Veggies:
Now, layer the sliced zucchini evenly over and around the chicken. This will create a delicious bed of veggies that absorb all those tasty flavors.
6. Add More Flavor:
Scatter the cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and red onion slices over the zucchini and chicken. You’ll love how colorful and inviting this looks!
7. Cheese it Up:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta and shredded mozzarella cheese on top of everything. This is what makes it extra cheesy and delicious!
8. Cover and Bake:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. This will help steam the chicken and cook the veggies nicely.
9. Remove the Foil:
After 25 minutes, take off the foil and continue to bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. You’re looking for the chicken to be cooked through and the cheese to be golden and bubbly.
10. Rest Before Serving:
When it’s done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This will make it easier to serve and helps keep everything moist.
11. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finish off by garnishing with fresh chopped parsley before serving. This adds a lovely color and fresh flavor!
And there you have it! Enjoy your flavorful, easy-to-make Mediterranean chicken zucchini bake!
FAQ for Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! You can substitute the zucchini with bell peppers, eggplant, or even spinach. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as some vegetables may cook faster or slower than zucchini.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat to prevent drying out.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dish up to step 7, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, just bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
What Can I Serve This Bake With?
This Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake pairs wonderfully with a side of couscous, rice, or a fresh green salad. You could also serve it with crusty bread to soak up any juices!
