Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy, flavorful meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Then look no further! This Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and aromatic herbs, all baked to perfection in one pan for minimal cleanup. This simple recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas and delicious dishes, and it's a fantastic option for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all skill levels. It's so good, it'll quickly become one of your best recipes!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
-
Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This simple step ensures your bake doesn't stick.
-
Marinate Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Marinating the chicken for at least 15 minutes (or even longer in the fridge) will enhance the flavor significantly.
-
Layer the Bake: Arrange half of the zucchini slices in the prepared baking dish. Top with the marinated chicken, followed by the red onion slices, cherry tomatoes, and olives. Finally, layer the remaining zucchini slices on top.
-
Drizzle & Bake: Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the vegetables. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the zucchini is tender. You'll know the chicken is cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
-
Feta Finish: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the bake during the last 5 minutes of baking. This adds a salty, tangy element that perfectly complements the other flavors.
-
Serve & Enjoy: Let the bake rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish. Serve hot and enjoy this healthy and delicious meal!
Tips for the Best Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake:
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, yellow squash, or spinach.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Herb Alternatives: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Lemon Zest: A little lemon zest adds a bright, fresh flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a fantastic example of easy recipes that are both healthy and satisfying. It's a perfect weeknight meal, offering a burst of Mediterranean flavors without the fuss. This recipe is adaptable to your preferences and dietary needs, making it a versatile addition to your repertoire of healthy meals. Try it tonight and discover a new favorite!