Name: Chicken and Zucchini Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 large zucchinis, sliced into rounds (about 1/4-inch thick); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (for drizzling)

Description

This Chicken and Zucchini Bake is a healthy and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish, combining tender chicken breasts, fresh zucchini, and vibrant Mediterranean vegetables. Topped with tangy feta cheese, it’s a simple yet delicious weeknight dinner or special occasion meal. With minimal prep and just one dish to clean, this recipe is as convenient as it is tasty.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 large zucchinis, sliced into rounds (about 1/4-inch thick)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced

1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Optional:

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (for drizzling)

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Ingredients:
- Slice the zucchini into thin rounds and place them on paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
- Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, dried oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Slice cherry tomatoes in half, slice olives, and chop sun-dried tomatoes. Set aside.
Assemble the Dish:
- Lightly grease a large baking dish. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the center of the dish.
- Arrange the zucchini slices around the chicken.
- Scatter cherry tomatoes, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes around the chicken and zucchini.
Bake the Dish:
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The zucchini should be tender.
Add Cheese:
- Remove the dish from the oven, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top.
- Optional: Add shredded mozzarella cheese. Return to the oven for 5-7 minutes until cheese is melted and golden brown.
Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and drizzle with balsamic vinegar before serving.
- Serve with quinoa, couscous, or a simple side salad for a complete meal

Notes

Chicken Thighs Option: For a juicier result, swap the chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
Add Other Veggies: Bell peppers or eggplant make great additions to this dish for more variety.
Cheese Variations: Swap feta with goat cheese, mozzarella, or parmesan.
Make it Vegan: Use plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh, and substitute vegan cheese on top.
Marinating Tip: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for a few hours before baking.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Mediterranean