Description
This Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a flavorful and healthy one-pan meal featuring tender chicken breasts, fresh zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, all baked to perfection with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep, this dish combines vibrant Mediterranean flavors with simple ingredients for a satisfying and nutritious dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein & Vegetables
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings & Dairy
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or feta)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and add a subtle layer of flavor.
- Prepare the mixture: In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces, sliced zucchini, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and minced garlic with olive oil. Then add dried oregano, dried basil, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix thoroughly to ensure the seasoning coats all the ingredients evenly.
- Assemble the bake: Spread the seasoned chicken and vegetable mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top to create a delicious cheesy crust as it bakes.
- Bake covered: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. This step helps steam the ingredients, ensuring the chicken and vegetables cook thoroughly and stay moist.
- Bake uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown, bubbly, and the chicken is fully cooked through (internal temperature reaching 165°F or 74°C).
- Garnish and serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm as a wholesome dinner that combines vibrant Mediterranean flavors.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute chicken with turkey or firm tofu for a different protein option.
- Using feta cheese instead of mozzarella adds a tangy Mediterranean touch.
- You can add other vegetables such as bell peppers or olives to customize the dish.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently in the oven or microwave.
- If you prefer spicier, increase the red pepper flakes to your taste.
