Mediterranean-Style Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe

Looking for a wholesome, flavorful dinner that brings the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean to your table? This Chicken Zucchini Bake is a delightful one-dish meal that combines tender chicken breasts with a colorful medley of fresh vegetables, all seasoned with aromatic herbs and topped with creamy feta cheese. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a casual gathering, this recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for the whole family. The harmonious blend of zucchini, cherry tomatoes, red bell peppers, and red onions, infused with a homemade herb-infused olive oil dressing, creates a dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Let’s walk through the steps to create this mouthwatering Mediterranean-inspired bake from scratch!

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Vegetables:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 6-8 ounces each)
• 2 cups zucchini, sliced into half-moon shapes
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (EVO)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (for topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures that the chicken cooks thoroughly while allowing the vegetables to roast to a tender, slightly caramelized perfection.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer in a large baking dish. Ensure there’s enough space around each piece for the vegetables to be evenly distributed, which will help everything cook uniformly.
3. Add the Vegetables: Surround the chicken breasts with the sliced zucchini, halved cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper strips, and red onion slices. The variety of colors not only makes this dish visually appealing but also adds a range of flavors and textures, from the juicy tomatoes to the crisp bell peppers.
4. Mix the Seasonings: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. This homemade seasoning blend infuses the dish with the classic Mediterranean flavor profile. Drizzle the mixture evenly over the chicken and vegetables, using a spoon or your hands to ensure everything is well coated.
5. Bake the Dish: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked, while the vegetables will become tender and slightly roasted. Halfway through the cooking time, you can gently stir the vegetables to promote even roasting.
6. Add Fresh Herbs: Once removed from the oven, sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley and basil over the top. These herbs add a burst of freshness and a pop of green color that complements the dish beautifully. The warmth of the bake will release their aromatic oils, enhancing the overall flavor.
7. Top with Feta Cheese: Finish by sprinkling the crumbled feta cheese over the chicken and vegetables. The cheese will slightly melt from the residual heat, adding a creamy, tangy contrast to the dish. Let it sit for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Serve this Mediterranean-style Chicken Zucchini Bake warm, straight from the dish. It pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread, a simple green salad, or even a serving of couscous or quinoa for a more substantial meal. The leftovers, if any, reheat beautifully for a quick lunch the next day!

Tips for Success

• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap in other Mediterranean favorites like artichoke hearts, Kalamata olives, or even eggplant slices to customize the dish to your liking.
• Cheese Options: If feta isn’t your preference, try goat cheese or a mild shredded mozzarella for a different twist.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble this dish in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.

This Chicken Zucchini Bake is a celebration of Mediterranean cuisine, bringing together simple ingredients to create a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Your engagement helps us keep sharing these delicious recipes! Thank you! 😊