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Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe

Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe
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Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a simple, healthy, and flavorful one-pan dish combining tender chicken breasts, fresh zucchini, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and aromatic Mediterranean herbs. Topped with tangy feta cheese and brightened with lemon juice, this vibrant bake is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or cozy weekend meals that delight with every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts

Vegetables & Fruits

  • 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into thin rounds
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Additional Mediterranean Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
  • 2 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 lemon, juiced (about 2 tbsp lemon juice)
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prep and Slice Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the zucchinis into thin rounds, halve the cherry tomatoes, mince the garlic, and chop the fresh oregano and basil. Cut the chicken breasts into even bite-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
  2. Season the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with olive oil, minced garlic, chopped oregano and basil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to ensure each piece is fully coated and infused with vibrant Mediterranean flavors. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes if time permits.
  3. Layer Ingredients in a Baking Dish: Arrange the zucchini slices evenly in the bottom of a baking dish. Spread the marinated chicken pieces over the zucchini, then evenly distribute the halved cherry tomatoes and Kalamata olives on top for a colorful presentation.
  4. Bake Until Golden: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the zucchini is tender. The juices should be bubbling and the aroma inviting.
  5. Add Feta and Broil: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese evenly over the top of the bake. Switch the oven to broil and broil for an additional 3-5 minutes, watching carefully until the feta softens and lightly browns, adding a creamy, tangy finish.

Notes

  • Use fresh zucchini and ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan; give ingredients space to roast and caramelize evenly.
  • Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes for deeper flavor absorption.
  • Choose high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance taste and health benefits.
  • Monitor feta cheese closely when broiling to prevent burning.
  • Bring chicken to room temperature (10-15 minutes) before cooking for even baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mediterranean chicken, zucchini bake, healthy chicken recipe, one-pan dinner, feta chicken bake, low-carb Mediterranean meal, quick healthy dinner

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/mediterranean-chicken-zucchini-bake-recipe/