1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Chicken
- Season Chicken: Season the chicken breasts (or thighs) with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, ground cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Sear Chicken (optional): For extra flavor, you can quickly sear the chicken in a hot skillet with a bit of olive oil for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. This step is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor.
3. Prepare the Vegetables
- Slice and Dice: Slice the zucchinis into half-moons, dice the red bell pepper, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion.
- Mix Vegetables: In a large bowl, toss the sliced zucchini, diced red bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and minced garlic with olive oil. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. Assemble the Bake
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Spread the vegetable mixture evenly in a large baking dish or sheet pan. Place the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the vegetables.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the vegetables are tender. If using, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top in the last 5 minutes of baking.
5. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
- Serve: Serve the Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake on its own or with cooked quinoa, rice, or warm pita bread.
Tips for Success
- Even Cooking: Arrange the vegetables in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Check Chicken Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Customize: Feel free to add other Mediterranean ingredients like olives, artichoke hearts, or capers.
Variations
Customize your Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake with these variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu and add extra veggies like eggplant or mushrooms.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño for some heat.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or fresh dill for varied flavors.
Conclusion
You’ve just prepared a flavorful and nutritious Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake that combines tender chicken with fresh vegetables and Mediterranean spices. This one-pan meal is easy to make and packed with delicious flavors, making it a great addition to your meal rotation.
Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy this wholesome dish with your favorite sides. Bon appétit!