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Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake: A Wholesome Delight

If you’re in search of a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-prepare meal, look no further than the Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake. This dish combines succulent chicken, fresh vegetables, and a medley of Mediterranean flavours, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or an ideal option for meal prep.

The Allure of Mediterranean Cuisine

Mediterranean cuisine is renowned for its emphasis on fresh ingredients, vibrant flavours, and wholesome cooking methods. Characterised by an abundance of vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats, this style of cooking promotes not only good health but also delightful taste. This chicken and zucchini bake is no exception, blending these elements into one harmonious dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this mouth-watering Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake, you will require the following ingredients:

• 2 large chicken breasts, diced
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red onion, sliced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 400g tin of chopped tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 50g feta cheese, crumbled (optional, for that extra tang)
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley, to garnish (optional)

Method

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 190°C (375°F). This ensures that your bake cooks evenly.

2. Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast and cook until golden brown. This should take around 5–7 minutes. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

3. Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if necessary, then toss in the sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté for a minute until fragrant, before adding the sliced zucchinis and chopped bell peppers. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.

4. Combine Ingredients: Return the chicken to the skillet, and add the tin of chopped tomatoes, oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavours.

5. Transfer to Bakeware: Pour the mixture into a large baking dish, making sure it’s evenly spread out. If desired, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top for an added burst of flavour.

6. Bake in the Oven: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

7. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is incredibly versatile. It can be served on its own for a light meal or paired with a side of quinoa, couscous, or a fresh green salad for a more filling option. The leftovers also make for a delicious lunch the next day, allowing the flavours to meld even further.

Conclusion

The Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake encapsulates the essence of Mediterranean cooking—simple, flavourful, and nourishing. With its vibrant colours and delicious taste, this dish is sure to please both the palate and the eye. So why not give it a try? It’s a wonderful way to bring the taste of the Mediterranean into your home, all while maintaining a sense of health and well-being. Happy cooking!

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