This tasty Mediterranean chicken zucchini bake is a one-pan wonder! With juicy chicken, fresh zucchini, and yummy spices, it’s packed with flavor and super easy to make.
Cook it all together, and in no time, you’ve got a healthy dish that’s perfect for dinner. It’s so easy, I even let my kids help chop the veggies (which they love!).
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the go-to choice here for their tenderness. If you prefer a different protein, try using turkey cutlets or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds a nice texture and flavor. If you’re out of zucchini, eggplant or yellow squash can be used instead, giving a delicious variation to the recipe.
Toppings: Mozzarella gives a melty goodness while Parmesan adds a rich, salty flavor. If you don’t have these cheeses, feel free to use any cheese that melts well, like provolone or even feta for a tangy touch.
Herbs: Dried oregano and basil really boost flavor. If you have fresh herbs, use them—they’re even better! You could also mix in thyme or rosemary if you like. If you’re out of dried herbs, Italian seasoning is a great all-in-one substitute.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Juicy and Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken perfectly can be tricky, but with a few tips, you can nail it! First, start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This helps them cook uniformly.
- Preheat your oven correctly—making sure it’s at 375°F (190°C) is key to even baking.
- Covering the baking dish with foil for the first part keeps the chicken moist. This traps steam, preventing it from drying out.
- Check the internal temperature before taking it out. It should be 165°F (74°C) for safe eating.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken juicy.
These tips will help you create a delicious and satisfying Mediterranean chicken zucchini bake every time!
Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 1 large tomato, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Mediterranian dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then roughly 40-45 minutes in the oven, including baking time. With a total time of around 55 minutes, it’s an easy and quick dinner option that’s full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Dish:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, lightly grease a medium baking dish with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Layer the Chicken:
In your prepared baking dish, lay the chicken breasts in a single layer. Make sure they don’t overlap so they cook evenly and nicely.
3. Add the Vegetables:
Evenly scatter the sliced zucchini, diced tomato, chopped onion, and minced garlic on top of the chicken. This will add heaps of flavor and moisture during cooking!
4. Season Everything:
Drizzle the olive oil over the top of everything. Now, sprinkle the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a little kick. Use your hands to gently mix the toppings so they’re well coated.
5. Bake Covered:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and pop it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes. This helps keep the chicken juicy.
6. Add Cheese and Bake Again:
After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, and the chicken is cooked through (check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C).
7. Let It Rest:
Take the dish out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This makes it easier to serve.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finish by garnishing your beautiful bake with some fresh chopped parsley. Serve it warm alongside crusty bread or a fresh salad for a delightful meal. Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake!
FAQ for Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! If you don’t have zucchini or would like to mix it up, you can use eggplant, bell peppers, or even spinach. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time for any vegetables that require longer or shorter baking times.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not include any gluten-containing ingredients. Just ensure that any cheese or seasonings you use are also certified gluten-free if needed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave, or heat it on the stove over low heat until warmed through.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, you can freeze the Mediterranean chicken zucchini bake before baking it. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking according to the recipe instructions.
