Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe

Introduction

This Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a vibrant, healthy dish bursting with fresh vegetables and savory herbs. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner that the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or feta)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the chicken, zucchinis, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and garlic. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with oregano, basil, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss well to coat all ingredients evenly.
3. Step 3: Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
4. Step 4: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes to cook the chicken and veggies gently.
5. Step 5: Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown, and the chicken is fully cooked.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the bake before serving for a fresh and colorful finish.

Tips & Variations

• Swap mozzarella with feta for a tangier flavor that complements the Mediterranean spices.
• Add sliced bell peppers or olives for extra color and taste.
• If you prefer spicier food, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Use bone-in chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier result; adjust cooking time accordingly.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain the bake’s texture. Avoid microwaving to prevent the vegetables from becoming soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the bake a few hours in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

You can freeze the cooked bake for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven to maintain the quality.

Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 95 reviews

• Author: Julian
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Fat

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Description

This Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a wholesome and flavorful one-dish meal featuring tender chicken, fresh zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfectly baked to develop a golden cheesy crust, this dish combines simple ingredients for an easy, healthy dinner inspired by vibrant Mediterranean flavors.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Vegetables

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings and Oils

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Cheeses and Garnish

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or feta)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
2. Toss Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the bite-sized chicken pieces, sliced zucchinis, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and minced garlic. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with dried oregano, dried basil, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Toss everything until the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
3. Assemble the Bake: Spread the seasoned chicken and vegetable mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Distribute the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top, adding a creamy, savory layer that will melt beautifully during baking.
4. Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. This will gently cook the chicken along with the vegetables.
5. Bake Uncovered: Carefully remove the foil, then continue baking uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the cheese to melt fully and turn golden brown, while ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables become tender.
6. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, sprinkle the fresh chopped parsley over the top for a vibrant color contrast and fresh herb flavor. Serve the Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake warm as a delicious and wholesome meal.

Notes

• You can substitute feta cheese for mozzarella to enhance the Mediterranean flavor.
• Optional red pepper flakes add a gentle heat; adjust according to preference.
• Ensure chicken is fully cooked before serving by checking that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• This dish pairs well with a side of crusty bread or a light green salad.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Keywords: Mediterranean chicken bake, zucchini bake, baked chicken and vegetables, healthy chicken dinner, cheesy chicken bake