This tasty Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a colorful dish filled with chicken, fresh veggies, and yummy herbs. It’s like a sunny day on your plate, bursting with flavor!
I love how quick this recipe is! Just toss everything in a baking dish, let the oven do its magic, and enjoy a healthy meal. It’s perfect for busy nights when I still want something delicious!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis are essential for this dish. If you’re in a pinch, yellow squash or eggplant can work too—just slice them thinly for even cooking.
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean and cook evenly. You can substitute with thighs for more flavor and moisture, or even tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Cheese: Feta adds a tangy taste while mozzarella gives creaminess. If you prefer a dairy-free version, go for a plant-based feta and shredded vegan cheese. Personally, I love using goat cheese for a unique twist!
Olives: While olives add a nice briny flavor, they’re optional. You could skip them or use capers instead. I sometimes mix in marinated artichokes for extra zing!
Herbs: Dried oregano and thyme are perfect here, but fresh herbs really elevate the dish. Feel free to use fresh if you have it on hand; basil works beautifully too!
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken can be tricky. The key is to keep an eye on the internal temperature. You want it to reach 165°F (74°C) for it to be safe and juicy. Here are some tips to help you:
- Preheat your oven properly to ensure even cooking.
- Cover the dish with foil during the first part of baking; this helps keep moisture in.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s temperature in the thickest part.
- If you notice that the cheese is getting too brown before the chicken cooks, just tent the foil with a piece of cooking paper.
How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bake:
- 2 large zucchinis, sliced into thin rounds
- 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup olives, pitted and sliced (optional)
For the Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
- Cooked couscous or quinoa for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 40-45 minutes of cooking time. You’ll spend a little time slicing veggies and seasoning the chicken, and then let the oven do the work for you. In about an hour, you’ll have a tasty meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, lightly grease a baking dish with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Arrange the Zucchini:
Take the sliced zucchinis and arrange them evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This will create a nice base for your dish.
3. Season the Chicken:
In a bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and toss them around until they are well coated with the herby mixture.
4. Layer Everything:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the zucchini in the baking dish. Next, scatter the halved cherry tomatoes and sliced olives (if you’re using them) over the chicken. This will add a burst of flavor!
5. Add the Cheese:
Now it’s time to sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Make sure to cover everything evenly for that delicious cheesy topping.
6. Bake Covered:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (you’ll want the internal temperature to reach 165°F or 74°C).
7. Bake Uncovered:
After the initial baking time, carefully remove the foil. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Yum!
8. Rest and Serve:
Once it’s finished baking, take the dish out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. If you’d like, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve your Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake warm, alongside couscous or quinoa for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in other vegetables like bell peppers, eggplant, or spinach based on your preference or what you have on hand. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly depending on the vegetables used, so adjust accordingly!
What If I Don’t Have Feta Cheese?
No problem! You can substitute feta with other cheeses like goat cheese for a tangy flavor or ricotta for a creamier texture. You can also use additional mozzarella if you prefer a milder taste. Adjust the amount to suit your taste!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with a damp paper towel and microwave for a few minutes, or heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This will help keep the cheese from drying out!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance! Assemble everything up to the baking step, cover tightly with foil or cling wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
