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### **Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Chicken**
Start by preheating your oven to **375°F (190°C)**. This temperature is ideal for baking the chicken and vegetables without drying them out.
While the oven is heating up, prepare the chicken breasts. If the breasts are particularly thick, consider **butterflying** them (cutting them in half horizontally) to ensure they cook evenly and faster. Season the chicken breasts with **salt, pepper**, and a sprinkle of **dried oregano** for added Mediterranean flavor.
### **Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables**
Slice the **zucchini** into rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference. If you’re adding a **red onion** or **red bell pepper**, slice these into thin strips. Cut the **cherry tomatoes** in half, and **pitted black olives** into rings, if desired. If you’re using fresh **basil**, tear it into small pieces or chop it roughly.
### **Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables**
In a large skillet, heat about **2 tablespoons of olive oil** over medium heat. Add the **garlic** (minced or chopped) and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the **zucchini**, **tomatoes**, and **onions**, and cook for 3-5 minutes, just until the vegetables start to soften but are still vibrant and crisp.
### **Step 4: Assemble the Dish**
In a baking dish, arrange the sautéed vegetables at the bottom. Place the seasoned **chicken breasts** on top of the vegetables. Sprinkle the **feta cheese** evenly over the chicken and vegetables, then scatter the **olives** on top. If you want an extra pop of freshness, add some **fresh basil** leaves at this point.
### **Step 5: Bake**
Drizzle a little more **olive oil** over the chicken and vegetables, then cover the baking dish with foil. Bake in the preheated oven for about **25-30 minutes**, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of **165°F (74°C)** and is no longer pink in the center.
For the last 5 minutes of cooking, remove the foil and allow the chicken to brown slightly on top, which will give it a nice texture and flavor.
### **Step 6: Serve and Enjoy**
Once the dish is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake with a side of **whole grain rice**, **quinoa**, or a simple **green salad** to round out the meal.
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## **Tips for Success:**
1. **Use Fresh Ingredients**: The quality of your ingredients can make a significant difference in the taste of the dish. Fresh vegetables and high-quality feta cheese will elevate the flavors of the **Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake**.
2. **Adjust the Seasoning**: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of **crushed red pepper flakes** to the vegetables while sautéing. You can also squeeze some fresh **lemon juice** over the dish before serving for an extra zing.
3. **Meal Prep-Friendly**: This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Simply bake when ready to serve.
4. **Dairy-Free Option**: If you’re dairy-free, consider using a dairy-free cheese alternative or simply skip the cheese. The flavors from the vegetables, olives, and herbs will still make it delicious.
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## **Variations to Suit Your Taste and Dietary Preferences**
One of the best things about the **Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake** is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few variations to suit different tastes and dietary needs:
### **1. Vegetarian Version:**
For a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables, such as **eggplant**, **mushrooms**, or **spinach**. You can also substitute the feta cheese with a plant-based cheese
alternative.
### **2. Gluten-Free Option:**
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so there’s no need to make any adjustments if you’re following a gluten-free diet.
### **3. Mediterranean Lamb Option:**
If you prefer lamb, you can swap the chicken breasts for **lamb chops** or **lamb stew meat**. The bold flavor of lamb pairs beautifully with Mediterranean ingredients like olives and feta cheese.
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## **Conclusion**
The **Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake** is an easy-to-make, flavorful, and healthy dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your table. With its lean protein, nutrient-packed vegetables, and heart-healthy fats, this dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a nourishing meal that supports overall health and well-being. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or simply looking for a quick and satisfying dish, this Mediterranean-inspired bake is sure to become a favorite.
By combining the best of Mediterranean ingredients, the **Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake** is a simple yet delicious way to bring some sunshine to your dinner table. So, grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy the health benefits and mouthwatering flavors of the Mediterranean in every bite!
