Mediterranean Zucchini Chicken Bake
Tender chicken breasts or thighs baked with zucchini, cherry tomatoes, olives, and garlic, drizzled with olive oil, fresh herbs, and a splash of lemon.
This dish is light, protein-rich, and fully Mediterranean diet-friendly — a perfect weeknight dinner that’s elegant enough for guests.
⏱ Time
Prep: 10 minutes
Bake: 25–30 minutes
Total: 40 minute
🛒 Ingredients
4 chicken breasts or thighs
2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half moons
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup Kalamata or green olives, pitted
3 garlic cloves, sliced
3 tbsp olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt & black pepper
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 200°C
Lightly grease a baking dish with 1 tbsp olive oil
2️⃣ Prepare Chicken & Veggies
1. Place chicken in the dish
2. Arrange zucchini, cherry tomatoes, olives, and garlic around the chicken
3. Drizzle with remaining olive oil and lemon juice
4. Sprinkle oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper evenly
3️⃣ Bake
Cover with foil and bake 20 minutes
Remove foil and bake another 5–10 minutes until chicken is cooked through and golden, and zucchini is tender
4️⃣ Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil
Optional: drizzle a little extra olive oil and lemon juice before serving
💡 Chef Tips
Bone-in thighs are juicier but breasts work well
Don’t overcrowd pan — ensures veggies roast instead of steaming
Can add feta crumbles or a few roasted red peppers for extra Mediterranean flavor
Serve with couscous, quinoa, or whole-grain bread to complete the meal
❓ Frequently asked questions FAQs
Make ahead?
Assemble dish ahead and bake fresh when ready.
Vegan option?
Replace chicken with roasted chickpeas or firm tofu
Extra flavor?
Add a pinch of chili flakes or fresh thyme
🥗 Nutritional Information
Calories: 380
Protein: 35 g
Carbs: 10 g
Fat: 22 g
Fiber: 4 g