A Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a wholesome, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, fresh zucchini, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, all topped with a layer of melted cheese. It’s perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.
Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis (sliced into thin rounds)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 small red onion (thinly sliced)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- ¼ cup Kalamata olives (pitted and halved)
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp dried basil
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or feta cheese for a more authentic Mediterranean flavor)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. - Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the onions and garlic for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the zucchini and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until slightly tender. Season with oregano, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble the Bake:
- In the prepared baking dish, spread half of the zucchini mixture evenly on the bottom. Top with half of the cherry tomatoes and Kalamata olives.
- Add the cooked chicken in an even layer over the veggies. Then, add the remaining zucchini, tomatoes, and olives on top.
- Add Cheese:
Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the vegetable and chicken mixture. - Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the vegetables are tender. - Garnish and Serve:
Remove the dish from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a burst of color and flavor.
Enjoy Your Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake!
This dish is perfect for a healthy dinner and can be served on its own or with a side of crusty bread or a light salad. It’s full of Mediterranean flavors and wholesome ingredients!