Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Cooking has always been a passion of mine, but there are certain dishes that hold a special place in my heart. One such dish is Mediterranean Chicken Bake. This recipe beautifully combines vibrant Mediterranean flavors with the comforting essence of a home-cooked meal. Picture yourself coming home after a long day to the delightful aroma of marinated chicken and roasted vegetables wafting through the air. It’s a dish that not only nourishes the body but also warms the soul. I remember the first time I made this dish; I was mesmerized by how simple ingredients could come together to create such a breathtaking culinary experience. The fusion of balsamic vinegar, fresh herbs, and chicken is a harmony that keeps me returning to the kitchen.

What to Buy for Mediterranean Chicken Bake

When preparing the Mediterranean Chicken Bake, it’s essential to choose fresh, high-quality ingredients. The combination of flavors from the ingredients creates a symphony on your plate. You’ll find that each component plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall taste.

• Balsamic Vinegar: A key ingredient that adds a sweet and tangy flavor, making the dish more vibrant.
• Good Quality Olive Oil: Enhances the richness of the dish while helping to marinate the chicken.
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs: The protein base that absorbs all the lovely flavors while remaining juicy and tender.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• Marinated Artichoke Hearts: Adds a delightful briny flavor and enhances the Mediterranean vibe.
• Red Onion: Provides a mild sweetness and crunch that complements the other ingredients.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Burst with juiciness and freshness, adding color and flavor to the dish.
• White Beans: A great source of protein that adds substance to the meal.
• Whole Salted Cashews: Offers a crunchy texture and nutty flavor, rounding out the dish.
• Chicken Broth: Keeps the dish moist and adds depth to the flavors.
• Whole Milk Mozzarella Pearls: Melts beautifully over the top, creating a creamy finish.
• Fresh Oregano: Adds a burst of herby freshness that ties all the flavors together.

How to Cook Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Cooking the Mediterranean Chicken Bake is as enjoyable as the end result is delicious. You’ll appreciate how simple the steps are while creating a stunning dish. Gather your ingredients and let’s get started!

1. First, marinate the chicken in balsamic vinegar for at least 30 minutes. This step is vital as it infuses the meat with flavor. Make sure to coat the chicken well in the vinegar, allowing it to soak up the tangy goodness.

2. Next, preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. This temperature is perfect for ensuring the chicken cooks thoroughly while producing a beautiful golden color.

3. In a 9 by 13 casserole dish, combine white beans, cashews, cherry tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and red onion. These ingredients will provide a colorful base for your dish.

4. Season the chicken on both sides with salt and pepper to taste. This step will enhance the flavors as the chicken cooks.

5. In a large skillet, heat olive oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken and brown on both sides for about 2 minutes each. The goal is to get a nice sear; the chicken does not need to be cooked through as it will finish baking.

6. Carefully nestle the browned chicken into the casserole dish on top of the other ingredients. Brush the chicken with additional balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.

7. Add the chicken broth to the dish, ensuring the base is well moistened, and lay in the oregano sprigs for a fresh aroma.

8. Now, cook in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the chicken is completely cooked through. You want it to be tender and juicy.

9. Once cooked, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the mozzarella pearls over the top. The cheese will melt and add a creamy texture.

10. Finally, serve the Mediterranean Chicken Bake over rice, pasta, or enjoy it by itself. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress!

Expert Tips about Mediterranean Chicken Bake

To ensure your Mediterranean Chicken Bake comes out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen before baking. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze for up to three months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time.
• Pairing: Serve with a crisp green salad or some crusty bread to complement the flavors of the Mediterranean Chicken Bake.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian twist, substitute chicken with a mix of roasted vegetables or tofu.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for an extra kick of flavor.
• Serving Size: This recipe serves six, but you can easily halve or double it depending on your needs.

What to Serve With Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Choosing the right sides to serve with your Mediterranean Chicken Bake can elevate your meal even further. Here are some fantastic options:

• Light Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the bake.
• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side to soak up the delightful juices from the Mediterranean Chicken Bake.
• Quinoa or Couscous: These grains are great for adding texture and can absorb the flavors from the dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables can enhance the meal’s nutritional value and add more color.
• Rice Pilaf: A fragrant rice pilaf can be a wonderful pairing, providing a subtle flavor that complements the chicken.
• Seasonal Fruits: A platter of fresh seasonal fruits can serve as a refreshing palate cleanser after the rich meal.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine can complement the flavors beautifully, enhancing your dining experience.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Mediterranean Chicken Bake is a wonderful fusion of flavors that not only satisfies your hunger but also warms your heart. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that brings the taste of the Mediterranean right into your kitchen. I highly encourage you to try making this dish and share it with your loved ones. You won’t regret it, and I can almost guarantee it will become a regular in your rotation!

Mediterranean Chicken Bake

The ultimate comfort food, Mediterranean Chicken Bake combines tender chicken with an explosion of flavors. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, this dish features marinated chicken surrounded by fresh vegetables and creamy cheeses. Make it tonight for a delicious meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Mediterranean

Servings 6 servings

Calories 360 kcal

Equipment

• Baking Sheet
• Skillet
• Chef's Knife
• Oven

Ingredients

  

• 1/2 cup Balsamic Vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Good Quality Olive Oil I used Star Roasted Garlic Olive Oil
• 6 pieces Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs I used thighs
• to taste Salt and Pepper
• 1 14 oz can or jar Marinated Artichoke Hearts I used Star Grilled Artichokes
• 1/2 pieces Red Onion thinly sliced
• 1 pint Cherry Tomatoes left whole
• 1 14 oz can White Beans drained & rinsed
• 3/4 cup Whole Salted Cashews
• 1 1/2 cup Chicken Broth
• 1 cup Whole Milk Mozzarella Pearls whole milk mozzarella
• 4 sprigs Fresh Oregano chopped

Instructions

 

• Marinate the chicken breast in balsamic vinegar for at least 30 minutes.
• Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
• In a 9 by 13 casserole dish, add white beans, cashews, cherry tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and red onion.
• Season the chicken on both sides with salt and pepper to taste. Heat olive oil in a large skillet and brown the chicken on both sides for about 2 minutes on each side. (The chicken will be browned, but not cooked through. It will finish cooking in the oven.)
• Nestle the browned chicken into the casserole dish, allowing it to just sit on top of all the other ingredients. Brush with more balsamic vinegar.
• Add the chicken broth to the dish and lay in the oregano.
• Cook for 15 to 20 minutes or until the chicken is completely cooked through.
• Remove from the oven and add in the mozzarella.
• Serve over rice, pasta, or just by itself!! Enjoy 🙂

Keyword easy chicken bake, Healthy Dinner Ideas, Mediterranean chicken recipe, One-Pan Chicken Dish

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Meet Penny Porter

I bring the energy to our cooking sessions. I don’t have a “specialty” because I love it all I’m just as happy kneading dough as I am stirring a spicy curry. My favorite part of being on this team is the variety. One day we’re making pasta from scratch, and the next we’re grilling outdoors. I love the fast-paced creative process and am always the first one to grab an apron when a new idea pops up.