Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake | Healthy One-Pan (Print Version)
Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a healthy, flavorful one-pan meal. Enjoy tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and vibrant herbs for an easy weeknight dinner.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 30 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Dietary: Gluten-Free
# Ingredients:
→ Hearty Bake Foundation
01 -
1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
02 -
2 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise and sliced into 1/2-inch thick half-moons
03 -
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
04 -
1/2 large red onion, thinly sliced
→ Mediterranean Flavor Boosters
05 -
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
06 -
1 large lemon, juiced and zested
07 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
08 -
1 1/2 tsp dried oregano
09 -
1 tsp sea salt, plus more to taste
10 -
1/2 tsp black pepper, plus more to taste
→ Tangy Finishing Touches
11 -
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
12 -
1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
13 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This crucial step ensures your Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake | Healthy One-Pan Meal cooks evenly and prevents sticking.
02 -
In a large mixing bowl, combine the 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 2 medium zucchini, 1 pint cherry tomatoes, and 1/2 large red onion. Ensure all components are well distributed for optimal flavor.
03 -
In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, the juice and zest of 1 large lemon, 4 cloves minced garlic, 1.5 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp sea salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. This creates the vibrant Mediterranean dressing.
04 -
Pour the prepared dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Toss everything gently until thoroughly coated. Spread the ingredients in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, avoiding overcrowding for the best Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake | Healthy One-Pan Meal.
05 -
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender-crisp. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
06 -
Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Sprinkle 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese and 1/2 cup halved Kalamata olives evenly over the bake. Return to the oven for another 5 minutes, allowing the feta to soften slightly.
07 -
Carefully remove the Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake | Healthy One-Pan Meal from the oven. Garnish generously with 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately for a delicious and healthy meal.
# Notes:
01 -
Customization Tip: Feel free to swap zucchini for bell peppers, broccoli florets, or asparagus. You can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor.
02 -
Serving Suggestion: This healthy one-pan meal is fantastic on its own, or serve it alongside a bed of quinoa, couscous, or with warm pita bread for a more substantial dinner.
03 -
Storage Advice: Leftovers of your Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
04 -
Flavor Boost: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a subtle kick, or a tablespoon of capers along with the olives.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large baking sheet
02 -
large mixing bowl
03 -
knife
04 -
cutting board
05 -
lemon zester/juicer
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 495 kcal
Total Fat: 25 g
Total Carbohydrate: 16 g
Protein: 58 g