Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake

Looking for a healthy, flavorful, and easy weeknight dinner? This Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is the perfect solution! Tender, juicy chicken breasts are baked with fresh zucchini, cherry tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, and aromatic Mediterranean herbs. It’s a simple one-pan dish that’s full of vibrant flavors and minimal cleanup.

If you love Mediterranean-inspired dishes, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. The combination of oregano, garlic, olive oil, and lemon brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables while keeping the chicken moist and flavorful. Plus, this dish is naturally low-carb, gluten-free, and protein-packed, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing taste.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this chicken zucchini bake is a reliable go-to. It takes just 15 minutes to prep and 35 minutes to bake, which means dinner is ready in under an hour! Pair it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh Greek salad, and you’ve got a complete meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Get ready to fall in love with this Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake—it’s fresh, fast, and full of flavor.

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What Makes This Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake Special?

• One-pan recipe: Minimal dishes and easy cleanup.

• Healthy and nutrient-rich: Packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and healthy fats.

• Bursting with Mediterranean flavors: Herbs, olive oil, lemon, and feta cheese create a vibrant taste.

• Family-friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.

• Perfect for meal prep: Stores well and reheats beautifully, making it great for busy weeks.

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Ingredient Notes

Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients and why they matter:

• Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean protein base. Substitute with chicken thighs for extra juiciness.

• Zucchini: Adds a mild, slightly sweet flavor and stays tender when baked. Swap with yellow squash if needed.

• Cherry Tomatoes: They roast beautifully, adding natural sweetness and color. Roma tomatoes work too.

• Red Onion: Balances the dish with a mild sharpness. You can use white or yellow onion instead.

• Kalamata Olives: Provide a salty, briny bite that enhances the Mediterranean flavor. Use green olives if preferred.

• Feta Cheese: Adds creaminess and tang. Goat cheese or mozzarella can be used as substitutes.

• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for authentic Mediterranean richness.

• Garlic & Lemon Juice: Boosts freshness and depth of flavor.

• Mediterranean Herbs: Dried oregano, basil, and thyme bring everything together.

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How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice zucchini into half-moons, halve cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice red onion. Pat chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, oregano, and garlic powder.

Step 2: Layer the Vegetables

In a large baking dish, spread zucchini, tomatoes, onion, and olives. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and sprinkle with oregano. Toss gently to coat.

Step 3: Add the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the vegetables. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and sprinkle a little more oregano for flavor.

Step 4: Bake

Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The vegetables should be tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 5: Finish with Feta

Remove from the oven and crumble ½ cup feta cheese over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon for brightness.

Pro Tip: Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving so the juices redistribute and the flavors deepen.

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Storage Options

• Room Temperature: Do not leave the dish out for more than 2 hours.

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-12 minutes or microwave in 1-minute intervals.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Make it Low-Carb: Serve as-is or pair with cauliflower rice.

• Add More Veggies: Bell peppers, eggplant, or artichoke hearts work beautifully.

• Spicy Kick: Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for a mild heat.

• Dairy-Free Version: Skip the feta or replace it with dairy-free cheese.

• Protein Swap: Replace chicken with salmon or shrimp for a seafood twist.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use frozen zucchini?
Yes, but thaw and pat dry first to avoid excess moisture.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prep everything in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Q3: How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer—chicken is ready when it reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.

Q4: Can I skip the feta cheese?
Yes, but it adds a nice tangy balance. Try goat cheese or mozzarella instead.

Q5: What should I serve this with?
It pairs well with rice, couscous, quinoa, or a fresh Greek salad.

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Conclusion

This Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is everything you want in a weeknight dinner—healthy, flavorful, and incredibly easy. It’s a one-pan wonder that saves time without skimping on taste. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.

Give it a try, share your creations, and enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean at your dinner table tonight!

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