This Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a one-pan wonder! It features juicy chicken, fresh zucchini, and a burst of Mediterranean flavor with herbs and spices.
I love how simple it is to make—just toss everything together, bake, and enjoy a healthy meal without much fuss. Plus, the clean-up is a breeze! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for this bake because they stay moist and cook evenly. If you prefer, you can use boneless thighs, which are a bit juicier. Always try to use fresh chicken for the best flavor!
Zucchini: Fresh, medium zucchinis are ideal, but you could also substitute yellow squash if you like. If you have eggplant on hand, it could be a nice alternative too, just slice it thinly and follow the same steps.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes are convenient, but fresh tomatoes add great flavor! If you have cherry tomatoes, you can halve them and use those instead—they add a bit of sweetness.
Cheese: Mozzarella is delicious here. If you want a stronger flavor, try using provolone or a mix of mozzarella and feta for more Mediterranean flair. For a dairy-free option, you can look for plant-based cheese alternatives.
How Do I Properly Bake the Chicken for Juiciness?
The secret to juicy baked chicken lies in proper seasoning and cooking time. Make sure to season both sides of the chicken breasts well. Here’s how you can ensure it stays moist:
- Preheat your oven properly. A hot oven helps cook the chicken evenly at the start.
- Don’t overcook! Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (74°C). If you cook too long, it can dry out.
- Let the chicken rest after baking for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping it moist.
With these tips, you’ll have succulent chicken as part of your bake every time! Enjoy this easy and satisfying dish.
Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bake:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Cheese Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
You will need about 10 minutes for preparation and around 30-40 minutes for baking. Altogether, it takes about 50 minutes to whip up this delightful Mediterranean dish, making it a perfect option for a quick weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your bake cooks evenly and thoroughly.
2. Prepare Your Baking Dish:
Lightly grease a baking dish with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. This helps prevent sticking and adds some flavor to the dish.
3. Season the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil. This step is crucial for flavoring the chicken!
4. Mix the Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced zucchini, diced tomatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, and the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Season with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Toss everything together until well combined and coated with the olive oil.
5. Assemble the Bake:
Spread the vegetable mixture evenly over and around the chicken breasts in the baking dish. Make sure to cover them nicely!
6. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the vegetables and chicken. Follow this with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to give it an extra delicious layer!
7. Bake It!
Bake the dish uncovered in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Let It Rest:
Once out of the oven, let the bake rest for about 5 minutes. This cooling time makes it easier to serve and also allows the flavors to settle.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake!
This dish is not just easy to make but also packed with flavor and nutrition—perfect for your family dinner table!
FAQ: Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Bake?
Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute other veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking!
Can I Make This Recipe with Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Yes, you can! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs would work wonderfully in this recipe. They tend to be juicier and can enhance the flavor of the bake.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave. Just make sure to cover the dish to prevent drying out!
Is This Recipe Freezable?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled dish (before baking) for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking, and it may take a few extra minutes in the oven to cook through.
