Description
How to make Mediterranean chicken zucchini bake with herbs, feta, and tender vegetables that delivers comfort and flavor in every golden bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein & Base
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
Mediterranean Flavors
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings & Oil
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Prep Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil. This prevents sticking and ensures even browning on the bottom.
- Season Chicken: In a large bowl, toss chicken pieces with half the olive oil, oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Make sure every piece is well coated for maximum flavor.
- Layer Vegetables: Arrange zucchini rounds, onion slices, and bell pepper strips in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle with remaining olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Add Chicken: Nestle the seasoned chicken pieces among the vegetables, then scatter cherry tomatoes, olives, and minced garlic throughout. Everything should be in a single layer for even cooking.
- Bake Covered: Cover tightly with foil and bake for 25 minutes. The vegetables will start to soften and release their juices, creating a flavorful base for the chicken.
- Finish Uncovered: Remove foil, sprinkle feta cheese over top, and bake 10 more minutes until chicken reaches 165°F and vegetables are golden and tender.
- Rest and Serve: Let rest 5 minutes, then drizzle with fresh lemon juice and garnish with fresh herbs. The flavors will meld together beautifully during the resting time.
Notes
- Salt zucchini slices and drain 15 minutes before cooking to prevent excess moisture.
- Store covered in refrigerator up to 4 days; flavors improve overnight.
- Chicken thighs work better than breasts for staying tender and juicy.
- Add feta cheese only in final 10 minutes to prevent toughening.
- Let rest 5 minutes after baking for juices to redistribute properly.
- Can be assembled 24 hours ahead and refrigerated before baking.
Allergy Information: Dairy
Nutrition
- Calories: 285 calories
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 24g