Name: Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake – Healthy, Flavorful & Easy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-486612H14M51S
Total time: PT-486612H14M51S
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

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This Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a vibrant and healthy dish that combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and Mediterranean-inspired seasonings. It’s a quick, easy, and flavorful meal, perfect for a busy weeknight or a weekend dinner with family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Packed with fresh ingredients, this Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a great way to enjoy a wholesome meal without sacrificing flavor. The combination of juicy chicken, roasted zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and sweet red onions is enhanced by Mediterranean spices like oregano, basil, and smoked paprika. Topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, it’s a dish that hits all the right notes—savory, satisfying, and easy to prepare.

It’s a one-pan wonder that requires minimal prep and clean-up. Plus, it’s customizable: whether you prefer a tangy feta topping or want to add more veggies, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious.

Ingredients

For the 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

The 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)

The Topping:

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

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
Season the Chicken & Vegetables
In a large bowl, toss the chicken, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and garlic with olive oil and Mediterranean seasoning. Mix well to evenly coat everything with the spices.
Assemble the Bake
Spread the chicken and vegetable mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
Bake the Dish
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Serve & Enjoy!
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. Pair with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread for a complete meal!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 50-55 minutes

Variations

Add more veggies: Try adding bell peppers, eggplant, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
Different cheese: Swap mozzarella for feta cheese for an authentic Mediterranean flavor.
Spicy version: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a bit of cayenne pepper to kick up the heat.
Chicken alternatives: Use boneless, skinless thighs for a slightly juicier and richer taste.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for a couple of minutes or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through. If the dish is a little dry, add a splash of water or broth when reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients and assemble the dish a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator, and when you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven!

Can I use frozen chicken?

While it’s best to use fresh chicken for optimal texture and flavor, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure it’s fully thawed before preparing.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is naturally gluten-free, as it contains no gluten ingredients.

Can I use a different vegetable besides zucchini?

Absolutely! You can use eggplant, yellow squash, or even broccoli instead of zucchini for a different flavor and texture.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add fresh chopped chili peppers to the chicken and vegetable mixture before baking.

Can I use a different cheese for the topping?

Yes, feel free to use feta for a more Mediterranean touch, or even goat cheese for a tangy flavor.

Is this dish low-carb?

Yes, this dish is low in carbs due to the use of zucchini instead of high-carb pasta or grains.

Can I add a starch to this meal?

Yes, you can serve it with quinoa, rice, or couscous for a complete meal.

How do I know if the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be fully cooked and safe to eat. You can check with a meat thermometer.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese substitute like nutritional yeast or vegan mozzarella.

Conclusion

This Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is the perfect combination of healthy, flavorful, and easy to prepare. With simple ingredients and a delicious Mediterranean twist, it’s a meal your whole family will enjoy. Whether you’re following a healthy eating plan or just looking for a quick dinner idea, this recipe checks all the boxes. Serve it with your favorite side for a complete, satisfying meal!