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Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe

Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe

A quick, healthy, and flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake combining tender chicken breasts, fresh zucchini, cherry tomatoes, garlic, and vibrant Mediterranean herbs, finished with creamy feta cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this wholesome one-pan dish brings the essence of Mediterranean cuisine to your table with minimal effort and cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 boneless chicken breasts

Vegetables

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

Herbs & Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon fresh oregano, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh basil, chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Oils & Cheese

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Wash the zucchinis and slice into thin rounds. Halve the cherry tomatoes and mince the garlic cloves. Pat dry the chicken breasts and lightly season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken breasts on both sides until golden brown but not cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. This locks in juices and adds flavor depth.
  3. Layer the Bake: In a baking dish, arrange alternating layers of zucchini slices and cherry tomato halves. Evenly spread the minced garlic and sprinkle the fresh herbs over the vegetables. Gently place the seared chicken breasts on top of the layers.
  4. Drizzle and Season: Generously drizzle remaining olive oil over the entire dish. Sprinkle with additional fresh herbs, salt, and black pepper to enhance the flavors and keep the bake moist.
  5. Bake Until Tender: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 to 30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and vegetables are tender.
  6. Add Feta Cheese: Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to allow the cheese to soften and meld into the dish.

Notes

  • Choose uniform zucchini slices to ensure even cooking and a consistent texture.
  • Do not overcrowd the baking dish; leave space to allow vegetables to roast rather than steam.
  • Use fresh herbs when possible for a more vibrant flavor profile.
  • Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to keep it juicy and tender.
  • Add a splash of fresh lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mediterranean chicken bake, zucchini bake, healthy chicken dinner, one-pan meal, gluten-free dinner, easy Mediterranean recipe