Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
Savor the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake, a wholesome healthy recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Combining tender chicken, fresh zucchini, colorful veggies, and tangy feta, this dish is ready in just 50 minutes and embodies the heart-healthy essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Ideal for family meals, potlucks, or impressing guests, this Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a nutrient-packed, flavorful healthy recipe that brings sunshine to your table. Follow our easy recipe to create this delicious, diet-friendly dish!
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis sliced into thin rounds
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 red bell pepper diced
- 1 small red onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbled
- 1/4 cup pitted olives black or green, halved
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish.
- Season Chicken: Pat 1 lb chicken pieces dry. Season with salt, black pepper, 1 tsp oregano, 1 tsp basil, and 1 tsp paprika. Set aside.
- Prepare Vegetables: Slice 2 zucchinis into thin rounds, halve 1 cup cherry tomatoes, dice 1 red bell pepper, chop 1 small red onion, and mince 3 garlic cloves.
- Layer Ingredients: In the baking dish, layer zucchini rounds, followed by seasoned chicken. Scatter bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and garlic over the top for a colorful presentation.
- Add Feta and Olives: Sprinkle 1/2 cup crumbled feta and 1/4 cup halved olives evenly over the layered ingredients.
- Drizzle with Olive Oil: Drizzle 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil over the entire dish to enhance flavor and keep the chicken moist.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally, vegetables are tender, and feta is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot as a wholesome healthy recipe, paired with a side salad or grains.
Notes
- Use Fresh Produce: Choose vibrant, firm vegetables for the best flavor and texture.
- Check Chicken Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Layer Evenly: Spread ingredients uniformly for consistent cooking in this healthy recipe.
- Don’t Overcook Zucchini: Slice zucchini thinly but monitor to avoid mushiness.
- Foil Trick: Cover with foil initially to retain moisture, then uncover to brown the top.