This Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a bright and tasty dish! It features juicy chicken, fresh zucchini, and lots of herbs for a sprinkle of flavor.
What’s great about this recipe is how quick it is to prepare. Just pop it in the oven and let it do all the work while you relax. It’s a win-win! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep things simple and quick. If you’re looking to keep it lighter, you could use chicken thighs, which add more flavor and moisture.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is key here for texture. You could swap it for summer squash if you want a little variety. Just remember, both will cook the same way!
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a lovely burst of sweetness. If they’re out of season, try using canned diced tomatoes or even bell peppers chopped into bite-sized pieces.
Feta Cheese: Feta brings a tangy creaminess that enhances the overall dish. If you’re dairy-free, a crumbly tofu mixed with a touch of lemon juice can be a good substitute.
How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but here’s the secret. Start by ensuring the chicken breasts are evenly seasoned and oiled before placing them on the veggies. This not only adds flavor but helps them cook evenly.
- Check for doneness using a meat thermometer. Look for 165°F (75°C) to confirm it’s safe.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps keep it juicy.
- If you notice any part of the chicken is thinner, check it sooner as it may cook faster than thicker parts.
What’s the Best Way to Cut Veggies for Even Cooking?
Evenly cut veggies ensure they cook at the same rate. Keeping all zucchini slices about 1/4-inch thick will allow them to roast just right. For cherry tomatoes, halving them helps them cook down and release juices, creating a delicious sauce for the dish!
- Use a sharp knife and a stable cutting board for easier slicing.
- Group veggies together by type so you can focus on cutting them uniformly.
Enjoy making this Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake! It’s a perfect weeknight meal that brings fresh flavors to your table.
Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bake:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional)
- Juice of 1 lemon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake requires about 15 minutes for prep and 30 minutes of baking time, making it a fantastic choice for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner. Overall, you’ll be enjoying your meal in just about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the chicken and veggies will cook evenly once you put them in the oven!
2. Prepare the Vegetable Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the sliced zucchinis, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and minced garlic. Drizzle in half of the olive oil, oregano, thyme, paprika, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Toss everything together gently so that all the veggies are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
3. Season and Prepare the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and rub them with the remaining olive oil. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and a touch of paprika on each side. This not only flavors the chicken but helps create a nice crust as it bakes.
4. Assemble in a Baking Dish:
Spread the vegetable mixture evenly in a baking dish. Place the seasoned chicken breasts right on top of the veggies—this way, the chicken juices will flavor the veggies!
5. Add Lemon Juice:
Drizzle the juice of one lemon over the chicken and vegetables. This adds a bright touch and keeps everything fresh and tangy!
6. Bake Until Cooked Through:
Put your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. You know it’s done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the vegetables are tender.
7. Top with Feta and Herbs:
Once baked, take the dish out of the oven and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and any fresh herbs you’ve chosen over the top. This adds a lovely salty flavor and makes it look inviting!
8. Return to Oven:
Pop it back in the oven for another 5 minutes, just until the feta starts to soften and melt slightly.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Take your Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake out of the oven, let it cool slightly, and serve warm. Spoon the roasted vegetables alongside the chicken for a flavorful plate. Enjoy your tasty meal!
FAQ for Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in other veggies like bell peppers, eggplant, or spinach. Just ensure the veggies have similar cooking times so everything bakes evenly!
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you don’t have feta or prefer a different flavor, goat cheese, ricotta, or even a dairy-free alternative like cashew cheese can work well. Just crumble it on top as you would with feta!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave for a few minutes or warm it in the oven until heated through.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare everything in advance and assemble the dish without baking. Cover the dish and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking it when you’re ready to serve!
