Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe
This Mediterranean-inspired Chicken Zucchini Bake is a wholesome and flavorful one-pan meal perfect for a healthy family dinner. Featuring tender cubed chicken breasts, fresh zucchini, sweet grape tomatoes, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, it offers a perfect balance of protein and vegetables. The aromatic herbs and spices bring out a delicious Mediterranean flair, making it both satisfying and nutritious. Quick to prep and simple to bake, this dish pairs well with a light salad or crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 32 minutes
- Total Time: 47 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salty Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Spices and Seasoning
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
Main Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, cubed into ½-inch pieces (uncooked)
- 2 zucchini squash, cut into half rounds
- 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare the baking dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Mix the seasoning: In a small bowl, combine dried oregano, paprika, dried basil, salt, ground black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. This blend will infuse the dish with Mediterranean flavors.
- Combine main ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cubed chicken, sliced zucchini, halved grape tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, minced garlic, and olive oil. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the ingredients and toss thoroughly so that everything is evenly coated with herbs and oil.
- Arrange in baking dish: Transfer the tossed mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Add cheeses and cover: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the vegetables and chicken. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to retain moisture while baking.
- Bake covered: Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. This ensures the chicken cooks through gently and flavors meld.
- Uncover and finish baking: Carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden. Confirm the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safe eating.
- Feel free to swap zucchini with yellow squash or add bell peppers for extra flavor.
- For a spicier version, increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
