Experience the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this delicious and nutritious Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake. This dish combines tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and an array of flavorful ingredients like kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese, all seasoned with a blend of Mediterranean herbs. It’s a wholesome meal that’s as easy to prepare as it is to enjoy, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests.
Ingredients
- 2 large zucchinis, sliced into rounds
- 1 lb (450g) of chicken breasts, trimmed and diced into small pieces
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup of finely chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven: Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C).Lightly grease a large baking dish or casserole dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced zucchini, bite-sized chicken pieces, sliced red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and minced garlic.
- Season the Ingredients: Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Sprinkle with dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly so that the chicken and vegetables are uniformly coated with the oil and seasonings.
- Assemble the Bake: Transfer the seasoned chicken and vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the zucchini is tender. The dish should be bubbling and slightly golden around the edges.
- Add the Feta Cheese: Remove the baking dish from the oven and immediately sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the hot bake. The residual heat will slightly melt the cheese, adding a creamy, tangy element to the dish.
- Garnish and Serve: If desired, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake hot, either on its own or over a bed of rice or quinoa.
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a delightful combination of fresh ingredients and robust flavors, offering a healthy and satisfying meal that’s both simple to prepare and bursting with Mediterranean goodness. The tender chicken, juicy tomatoes, and briny olives complement the creamy feta cheese perfectly, while the zucchini adds a refreshing, low-carb base. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the taste of the Mediterranean in every bite!