Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake

This Mediterranean chicken zucchini bake has become my go-to recipe when I want something fresh colorful and loaded with flavor but with minimal prep. The mix of juicy chicken with sweet cherry tomatoes briny olives and tangy feta is a weeknight lifesaver that never feels boring or heavy even when family comes over for dinner.

I was first inspired to try this after a summer trip to Greece and now it is my answer anytime I crave bright Mediterranean flavors at home. It is a hit with both picky eaters and adventurous guests.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Provide hearty protein and stay juicy when baked if not overcooked. Look for chicken that is firm and pink with no discoloration.
• Large zucchinis: Contribute a tender fresh element and soak up the seasonings. Select ones that are glossy and feel heavy for their size.
• Cherry tomatoes: Add bursts of sweet acidity. The more vibrant the color the better the flavor.
• Black olives: Give a subtle salty bite. Kalamata variety brings the most Mediterranean flair just make sure they are pitted.
• Sun dried tomatoes: Intensify the flavor and bring delightful chewiness. Choose soft oil-packed ones for a richer taste.
• Crumbled feta cheese: Finishes the dish with creamy tang and a lovely contrast to the veggies.
• Olive oil: Coats everything and boosts aroma and healthy fats. Use a robust extra virgin oil if possible for best results.
• Dried oregano: Traditional Mediterranean herb that gives earthiness. Check that it is aromatic not faded.
• Dried basil: Layers in slightly sweet herb notes. For freshness crumble in your hands before adding.
• Garlic powder: Laces the whole dish with savory depth and is easier to distribute than fresh garlic here.
• Salt and pepper: Balance it all out. Always season to taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius. Allow it to come fully to temperature this ensures the chicken cooks evenly and the vegetables caramelize without steaming.

Prepare and Season the Chicken:

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Place in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Add dried oregano dried basil garlic powder salt and pepper. Rub everything in well so each piece is evenly coated with seasoning. Let it marinate a few minutes while prepping the remaining ingredients this makes a difference in flavor.

Arrange Ingredients in the Baking Dish:

Lightly grease a large baking dish with olive oil for easy cleanup. Place the seasoned chicken breasts at the center of the dish. Next arrange the zucchini rounds around and beneath the chicken so they are partly under each piece this allows them to absorb more juices. Scatter halved cherry tomatoes sliced black olives and chopped sun dried tomatoes evenly over and around the chicken and zucchini for even flavor distribution.

Bake the Dish:

Place the dish on the middle rack uncovered. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Halfway through use a spoon to baste some of the juices from the bottom onto the chicken and vegetables for extra moisture. Check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit or 74 degrees Celsius using a meat thermometer. The tomatoes should look burst and zucchinis tender while the chicken is just cooked through.

Add the Feta Finishing Touch:

Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese generously over the top during the last five minutes of baking so it softens and slightly melts but does not burn. This lets the cheese stay creamy with bright flavor rather than drying out.

Serve and Garnish:

Once baked remove the dish from the oven and let rest five minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute. Finish each portion with extra feta or fresh parsley for a beautiful pop of color and freshness. Serve hot for full flavor impact.

Zucchini is my personal favorite in this dish as it takes on all the savory roasted tomato juices and herbs beautifully. My kids love it so much they save their feta crumbles until the end for a perfect final bite. This recipe is often the centerpiece on birthdays when we want something both special and easy.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors deepen overnight making it even tastier on day two. To reheat use a low oven or microwave and cover the dish so the chicken stays moist. If you plan on freezing do so without the feta as it can become crumbly simply add fresh cheese after reheating.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap out chicken breasts for boneless thighs if you prefer juicier meat or have them on hand. You can use green olives instead of black for a tangier bite or roasted red peppers for extra color. If you are dairy free omit feta or use a plant based cheese crumble. For more veggies try adding red onion slices or thin rounds of eggplant layered along with the zucchini.

Serving Suggestions

I love to serve this bake over fluffy couscous or brown rice to soak up all those delicious juices. For an even more Mediterranean experience pair it with a crisp cucumber and dill salad and fresh warm pita on the side. It is beautiful served straight from the oven in the baking dish family style.

You will find every bite bursting with Mediterranean sunshine and flavor especially if you do not rush the baking time or skimp on the feta. And do not worry if there are leftovers they are dynamite for lunch the next day tucked into a pita or under a fried egg.

Foire aux questions sur la recette

→ Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?

Yes, bone-in pieces can be used, but the baking time may need to be increased until fully cooked.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

Try crumbled goat cheese, ricotta salata, or omit the cheese for a dairy-free version.

→ Will other vegetables work in place of zucchini?

Eggplant, bell peppers, or yellow squash make great alternatives or additions to zucchini.

→ How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Check that the internal temperature of the thickest part reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.

→ Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, prep the components in advance or bake ahead and gently reheat to serve.

→ Can I add fresh herbs instead of dried?

Absolutely—add chopped fresh oregano and basil after baking for extra aroma and flavor.