Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake

This Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is the kind of weeknight dinner I dream about when I want something healthy satisfying and fresh with very little cleanup. Juicy chicken gets nestled among tender zucchini and sweet cherry tomatoes all kissed with bold Mediterranean spices and finished off with a gooey cheesy topping. Everything comes together in one baking dish so you get incredible flavor with ease

This bake became my go to during a particularly hectic week when I could not face another night of dishes. It was so comforting and vibrant it quickly won over even my pickiest eater

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: the leanest cut for tender bites choose breasts that are firm and have a slight pink color
• Medium zucchinis: lend moisture and a touch of sweetness look for smooth blemish free skins
• Cherry tomatoes: add juicy pops of flavor opt for ripe tomatoes that feel heavy for their size
• Red onion: brings sweetness and color select onions that are firm with shiny papery skin
• Garlic: infuses depth choose firm cloves free of green sprouts
• Olive oil: helps everything roast up golden use extra virgin for the best taste
• Dried oregano: the backbone of Mediterranean seasoning choose a brand that smells fresh and vibrant
• Dried basil: builds earthy flavor check for a deep green color
• Smoked paprika: brings a subtle smoky depth use Spanish smoked paprika if you can
• Salt: sharpens all the flavors flaky sea salt is especially nice here
• Black pepper: adds mild heat freshly cracked for the best aroma
• Red pepper flakes: add a touch of heat completely optional but a favorite for spice lovers
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: melts into a gooey topping always choose whole milk mozzarella if possible
• Grated Parmesan cheese: provides sharp nutty notes buy a wedge and grate it fresh if you can
• Fresh parsley for garnish: brings herby freshness snip right before serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit That even heat is key for tender chicken and bubbly cheese

Grease the Baking Dish:

Brush or drizzle a nine by thirteen inch baking dish with olive oil You want a light coating across the bottom and sides so nothing sticks

Combine the Main Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl toss the diced chicken with sliced zucchini halved cherry tomatoes thinly sliced red onion and minced garlic Make sure everything is cut to even sizes so it cooks at the same rate

Season Thoroughly:

Drizzle more olive oil over the mixture Sprinkle in the dried oregano basil smoked paprika salt black pepper and red pepper flakes if using Stir well until every piece is evenly coated in spices and oil

Assemble the Bake:

Tip the seasoned mixture carefully into the prepared baking dish Spread it out in an even layer for even cooking and maximum surface area for the cheese

Add the Cheese:

Scatter the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top Follow with grated Parmesan so it creates a beautiful golden crust

Bake Covered:

Cover the dish securely with foil Slide the pan into the center of your preheated oven and bake for twenty minutes This step locks in moisture ensuring juicy chicken and tender veggies

Finish Uncovered:

Remove the foil and continue baking for ten to fifteen minutes more Look for the cheese to turn a deep golden brown and watch for bubbling along the edges That means you are almost there

Garnish and Serve:

Once out of the oven shower fresh parsley across the top for a pop of green Serve hot straight from the dish for maximum flavor

Save

I always look forward to that first bite with fresh mozzarella stretching from fork to plate The combination of sweet tomatoes and sharp Parmesan never fails to remind me of summer dinners enjoyed with my family on the patio

Storage Tips

Leftovers will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until just warmed through If you want to freeze the baked chicken zucchini dish let it cool completely cut into portions and wrap tightly Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have chicken breasts thighs work just as well You can use yellow squash in place of zucchini if that is what you have or swap in bell peppers for a different sweetness For the cheese try crumbled feta or a dairy free alternative Both work surprisingly well

Serving Suggestions

This is a full meal on its own but I love to serve it with a simple Greek salad or a piece of crusty bread to mop up the juices A dollop of plain Greek yogurt on the side is also delicious and brings a cool creaminess

Cultural Context

Mediterranean cuisine celebrates the marriage of fresh produce lean protein and bold herbs Roasting everything together amplifies those flavors while making weeknight meals a breeze The bright ingredients are inspired by time honored traditions from coastal regions where olives tomatoes and cheese are always on the table

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs add extra juiciness. Adjust bake time as needed to ensure they're cooked through.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Substitute the chicken with extra zucchini, eggplant, or canned chickpeas for a delicious meatless variation.

→ What sides pair well with this bake?

Serve with couscous, brown rice, or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal.

→ Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?

Assemble the dish up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Simply bake when ready to serve.

→ What type of cheese can I use as a substitute?

Feta cheese or provolone both work well and bring different Mediterranean nuances to the dish.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat until warmed through.