Description
This Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just 30 minutes. Lean chicken breasts, vibrant zucchini, fragrant herbs, and a burst of lemon come together in a nutrient-dense, Greek-inspired bake that fits effortlessly into busy weeknights. With minimal prep and just one pan, this dish offers high protein, heart-healthy ingredients, and satisfying freshness—all while keeping cleanup simple.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 3 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan or crumbled feta
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 tsp smoked paprika or red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and thyme. Pound to even thickness if needed.
- In a large bowl, toss zucchini with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and remaining herbs.
- Arrange chicken in the center of baking dish. Surround with zucchini and red onions.
- Bake 25–30 minutes, turning dish halfway, until chicken reaches 160°F.
- Sprinkle cheese on top during last 5 minutes of baking.
- Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving to retain juices.
Notes
For deeper Mediterranean flavor, add Kalamata olives or capers. Zucchini can be swapped with yellow squash without altering texture. Always allow chicken to rest for maximum juiciness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with vegetables
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 104mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: mediterranean chicken, zucchini bake, healthy dinner, 30 minute meal