Name: Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 medium zucchinis sliced into half-moons; 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved; 0.5 red onion thinly sliced; 2 cloves garlic minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil plus extra for greasing dish; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 0.5 teaspoon dried basil; 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.25 teaspoon black pepper; 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for heat; 0.5 cup shredded mozzarella cheese or feta for mediterranean touch; 0.25 cup grated parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Jump to Recipe · Leave a Review

Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a delightful, healthy dish that beautifully combines tender chicken with fresh vegetables, all baked together in one dish. The layers of flavor come from simple seasonings, aromatic garlic, and a sprinkle of gooey cheese that melts into everything. This bake not only shines in the flavor department but also steals the show visually with its vibrant colors: rich greens from the zucchini, lively reds from the tomatoes, and golden browns from the bubbling cheese.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake

I first stumbled upon this recipe during a busy week when I craved something nutritious yet uncomplicated. It quickly became a family favorite—perfect for weekdays yet fancy enough for weekend dinners. If you’re looking for a dinner that’s easy on the budget and a delight for the taste buds, this Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake should definitely be on your menu!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: With just 15 minutes of prep and 50 minutes in the oven, your dinner is practically done for you.
Irresistible Flavor: Savory chicken and roasted veggies unite with fragrant herbs and melted cheese for a feast of taste and texture.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Breathe some color into your dinner with bright tomatoes and zucchini, making it a wholesome centerpiece.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for cozy family nights or impressive dinner parties; pair it with sides, and it still shines.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free or low-carb diets without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces. This lean protein is the star of the dish, soaking up all the aromatic seasonings.
2 medium zucchinis: Sliced into half-moons. Their mild flavor and tender texture balance the dish beautifully, adding a nutritious boost.
1 cup cherry tomatoes: Halved. These burst with juicy sweetness and add vibrant color, making every bite special.
0.5 red onion: Thinly sliced. It provides a lovely bite and sweetness when roasted, complementing the dish.
2 cloves garlic: Minced. Garlic is essential for infusing the bake with a delightful fragrance and depth of flavor.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Plus extra for greasing the dish. This healthy fat helps in sautéing the vegetables and keeps everything from sticking.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: This herb adds a traditional Mediterranean essence that brightens the dish.
0.5 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a touch of sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika: Provides a subtle, smoky flavor that lifts the dish to new heights.
0.5 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the chicken and vegetables.
0.25 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a bit of warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little heat, this will give it a perfect kick.
0.5 cup shredded mozzarella cheese or feta for a Mediterranean touch: Mozzarella creates delightful gooeyness, while feta offers a tangy punch.
0.25 cup grated parmesan cheese: Finishing touch that gives the bake a rich, savory depth.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley: Chopped, for garnish. This bright herb enhances presentation and adds a fresh flavor highlight.

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake

Preheat the Oven: Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). Greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil ensures nothing sticks and helps achieve that delightful golden finish.

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss together 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces, 2 medium zucchinis sliced into half-moons, 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes, 0.5 thinly sliced red onion, and 2 minced garlic cloves.

Season the Mixture: Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over your chicken and vegetable medley. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 0.5 teaspoon of dried basil, 0.5 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 0.5 teaspoon of salt, 0.25 teaspoon of black pepper, and the optional 0.25 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Toss everything together with your hands to ensure an even coat of oil and spices.

Spread in Dish: Pour the seasoned chicken and veggie mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. This helps everything cook uniformly and lets the flavors marry beautifully.

Add Cheese: Now for the fun part! Sprinkle 0.5 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and 0.25 cup of grated parmesan cheese evenly on top. This gooey layer of cheese will bubble up, turning golden and inviting as it cooks.

Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and slide it into the preheated oven for 20 minutes. This keeps the moisture in so the chicken stays juicy.

Finish Baking: After 20 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes. Look for that beautiful golden color and ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C); the cheese should also be bubbling.

Let it Rest: Once it’s out of the oven, let the dish sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to settle and makes for easier serving.

Garnish and Serve: Before diving in, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake warm, complemented by sides like rice, quinoa, pita bread, or a fresh salad!

Storing & Reheating

To store leftovers, allow the Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake to cool down to room temperature first. Transfer into an airtight container; it can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’d like to save some for later, freeze in a safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. Though reheating may slightly change the texture, the flavors will still be delightful; consider adding a splash of olive oil to refresh it!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Use chicken that’s not too cold; room temperature chicken cooks better and more evenly.
Take care not to overcrowd the baking dish; this helps create that perfect roasted effect, rather than steaming.
Experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and variety.
If you’d prefer a more substantial side, consider serving with couscous or roasted potatoes.
Don’t skip the rest period! It helps the bake settle, making it easier to portion and enjoy.

The Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is not just satisfying; it’s an invitation to create a meal that brings zest to any dinner table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cherished gathering, this dish doesn’t disappoint. I encourage you to try this blend of flavors and textures at home—your family will thank you! Get creative with the ingredients and enjoy the cooking experience.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! If you prefer a different cheese, feel free to use provolone or cheddar instead of mozzarella. For a truly Mediterranean touch, try crumbled feta or a mix of both for extra flavor.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is already gluten-free as it contains no flour or gluten-containing ingredients. However, ensure any additional sides or ingredients, such as dressings, are also gluten-free for complete peace of mind.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.