Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake!

Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake—a healthy, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep.

🥘 Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: ~50 minutes

🌿 Ingredients:

For the bake:

• 2 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped

• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped

• 1 small red onion, sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved

• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1/2 tsp dried thyme

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (plus extra for garnish)

Optional Topping:

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped

• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving

🔪 Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar oven-safe dish.

2. Prepare the veggies and chicken:

   • In a large bowl, combine the zucchini, bell peppers, onion, cherry tomatoes, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes.

   • Add the chopped chicken pieces to the bowl.

3. Season and toss:

   • Drizzle everything with olive oil.

   • Add the minced garlic, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

   • Toss well to coat evenly.

4. Transfer to baking dish:

   • Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.

   • Spread evenly and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top.

5. Bake uncovered:

   • Place in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temp of 165°F / 74°C) and vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.

   • If you like a more browned top, broil on high for the last 2-3 minutes (watch carefully!).

6. Serve and garnish:

   • Remove from oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil, and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

   • Serve warm on its own or over rice, couscous, quinoa, or with warm pita.

🍽️ Tips:

• Make it low-carb: Serve with cauliflower rice or a green salad.

• Add-ins: Artichoke hearts or spinach work great here.

• Dairy-free option: Omit feta or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.