Name: Best Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 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; 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, for heat); ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or feta for a Mediterranean touch); ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Introduction

This Best Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken with fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs. It’s perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner and brings a lovely Mediterranean touch to your table.

A white oval baking dish filled with a baked meal featuring a bottom layer of round, sliced green zucchini arranged evenly across the base. On top of the zucchini, there are several pieces of cooked chicken breast, covered by a thick layer of melted cheese that is creamy white with hints of golden browning. Scattered on top and around the chicken are small, halved red cherry tomatoes which add bright pops of color. The dish sits on a white marbled surface with a gray and white striped cloth partially visible beneath the dish. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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, for heat)
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or feta for a Mediterranean touch)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, sliced zucchini, halved cherry tomatoes, red onion, and minced garlic. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss well to coat everything evenly with the seasoning.
Step 3: Spread the chicken and vegetable mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top for a golden, cheesy finish.
Step 4: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 5: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve the bake warm, paired beautifully with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread for a satisfying meal.

Tips & Variations

For a lighter option, substitute mozzarella with feta cheese to enhance the Mediterranean flavors.
Add sliced bell peppers or olives for extra color and taste variety.
If you prefer, swap chicken breasts for thighs for juicier meat.
Use fresh herbs like oregano or basil if available, adjusting amounts to taste.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 10-15 minutes, or microwave in short intervals to preserve texture and flavor.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a cooked dish with three large chicken breasts topped with small, round slices of browned cherry tomatoes and thinly sliced zucchini. The chicken is covered with a golden, slightly melted cheese layer that has some brown spots from baking. Fresh chopped green herbs are sprinkled over the top, adding bright color. The dish is in a white baking dish on a white marbled surface, with a woman's hand holding a silver fork lifting a piece of chicken. The textures look juicy and creamy with a baked finish. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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 before cooking. Keep it covered and refrigerated, then bake as directed when ready to serve.

Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?

While fresh vegetables work best for texture, you can use frozen zucchini and cherry tomatoes. Make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before mixing to avoid a watery bake.