Best Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe
A flavorful and healthy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake featuring tender chicken breasts, fresh zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and a blend of aromatic herbs and spices, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. This easy-to-make baked dish is perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner or meal prep.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken & 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
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Mediterranean Seasoning
- 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)
Topping
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or feta for a Mediterranean touch)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Season the Chicken & Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the bite-sized chicken pieces, sliced zucchini, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and minced garlic. Drizzle olive oil over the ingredients, then sprinkle with the Mediterranean seasoning mix. Toss everything thoroughly to coat the chicken and vegetables evenly with the spices and oil.
- Assemble the Bake: Transfer the seasoned chicken and vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top to add a delicious cheesy crust.
- Bake the Dish: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes to allow the chicken and vegetables to cook through. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese turns golden brown and bubbly and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Serve & Enjoy: Once baked, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve the Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake warm, alongside rice, quinoa, or crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Notes
- For a spicier version, increase the amount of red pepper flakes according to your taste.
- You can substitute mozzarella with feta cheese for a more authentic Mediterranean flavor.
- Make sure to check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it is fully cooked for safety.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
- To keep the dish low-carb, serve it on its own or with a side salad instead of grains.
Keywords: Mediterranean chicken bake, zucchini chicken bake, healthy chicken recipe, baked chicken with vegetables, Mediterranean diet recipe, easy dinner, chicken zucchini casserole
