This Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a tasty one-pan dish filled with juicy chicken and fresh zucchini. The flavors of herbs and tomatoes really make it special!
If you’re like me, you’ll love how simple it is to throw everything together. Plus, it makes for an easy clean-up. Who doesn’t appreciate less dish washing? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal here since they cook evenly and stay tender. If you’d like a juicier option, thighs can work well, or even use leftover cooked chicken for quicker prep.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini gives great texture and absorbs flavors beautifully. If you want to mix it up, yellow squash or eggplant can be tasty substitutes!
Tomatoes: I prefer using fresh tomatoes for a burst of flavor. Canned tomatoes are a perfect alternative when fresh aren’t available. Just make sure to drain them to avoid extra liquid!
Cheese: Mozzarella is lovely for that stretchy, melty goodness. If you’re not a fan of mozzarella, try using provolone or even a dairy-free cheese if you need to keep it dairy-free.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Chicken in This Bake?
Getting the chicken just right is key to this dish! Start by seasoning the chicken well with salt and pepper, which enhances the flavor. Make sure to place the chicken on top of the veggies so it bakes in the steam and flavors.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer—165°F (75°C) is safe and ensures juicy chicken.
- Covering with foil allows for even cooking without drying out the meat. Remove it toward the end to let that cheese get golden.
Letting it rest after baking helps the juices redistribute, making it extra tender. Enjoy this dish with your favorite side or on its own—it’s a winner!
Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Cheese & Seasoning:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 40–50 minutes of baking time. So, you’re looking at about 1 hour total. It’s super quick to prep, and then you can relax while it bakes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake your dish!
2. Prepare the Baking Dish:
In a large ovenproof baking dish, drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil. Spread the finely chopped onions and minced garlic evenly across the bottom. This will add great flavor as it bakes.
3. Layer the Vegetables:
Next, layer the sliced zucchini and diced tomatoes over the onions and garlic. This colorful mix not only looks nice but is delicious too!
4. Season the Chicken:
Now, place the chicken breasts on top of the vegetable layer. Season them generously with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and the red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
5. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the chicken and vegetables. This cheesy topping adds creaminess that everyone loves!
6. Bake Covered:
Cover the baking dish with foil to keep the moisture in and prevent the chicken from drying out. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
7. Bake Uncovered:
After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Continue baking for another 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (look for an internal temperature of 165°F/75°C) and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Let It Rest:
Once done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices settle, making the chicken tender and juicy.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy this wholesome Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake warm!
Whether it’s for an easy weeknight dinner or a meal to share with family, this dish is bound to be a hit. Enjoy your delicious meal!
FAQ About Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
Can I Use Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and can add even more flavor and moisture to the dish. Just keep an eye on the cooking time; thighs may take a bit longer than breasts, so ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Zucchini?
If you don’t have zucchini on hand, you can use yellow squash or eggplant as a substitute. Both offer a nice texture and will soak up the flavors beautifully!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the microwave or in a skillet on the stove until heated through. You may want to add a splash of water to keep it moist!
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can easily make this dish dairy-free by substituting the mozzarella and Parmesan with dairy-free cheese alternatives. Just make sure to choose a brand that melts well to get that delicious cheesy texture!
