This yummy Mediterranean Chicken and Zucchini Bake is a simple one-pan meal! Juicy chicken and tender zucchini are baked together with tasty herbs and spices for a burst of flavor.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star of this dish. If you’re looking for a quicker option, you could use chicken thighs, which are juicier. For a vegetarian version, try using chickpeas or tofu instead.
Zucchini: Zucchini not only adds texture but also absorbs flavors well. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash is a great substitute. Just slice it up the same way!
Cheese: I used mozzarella for its melty goodness, but you can swap in feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist. They add a beautiful Mediterranean flair to the dish!
Herbs: Dried oregano and basil give a wonderful aroma. If you have fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, they would be lovely here too. Fresh herbs are often more fragrant!
How Do You Get Creamy Cheese and Flavorful Chicken?
The key to juicy chicken and gooey cheese lies in proper layering and cooking. Start with seasoned chicken breasts to infuse flavor. Place them in the baking dish, and then heap the veggies and cheese on top. This ensures that the chicken stays moist while cooking.
- Preheat your oven properly; this helps everything bake evenly.
- Baking uncovered allows the cheese to brown and gives a slight crispness.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pan—give those veggies room to roast!
Let it rest after baking before serving. Resting helps the juices redistribute in the chicken, making every bite delicious!
How to Make Easy Mediterranean Chicken and Zucchini Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bake:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large tomato, diced
For the Flavoring:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30-40 minutes to bake, which totals roughly 45 minutes. You’ll have a delicious, healthy meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that everything cooks evenly and is ready when you are!
2. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Take a medium-sized baking dish and lightly grease it with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. This will help prevent sticking and keep the chicken moist.
3. Season the Chicken:
Generously season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, and garlic powder on both sides. This flavorful blend will seep into the chicken as it cooks.
4. Arrange the Chicken in the Dish:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the greased baking dish, making sure they are evenly spaced.
5. Mix the Vegetables:
In a separate bowl, combine the sliced zucchini, chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced tomato. Toss the veggies with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, a pinch of salt, and pepper. If you like a little heat, add the red pepper flakes.
6. Layer the Veggies:
Spread the vegetable mixture evenly around and over the chicken breasts. This helps infuse the chicken with all those lovely flavors.
7. Add the Cheesy Topping:
Now, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the chicken and vegetables. Everyone loves a cheesy topping!
8. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven, uncovered, and bake for about 30-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
9. Let It Rest:
After taking the dish out of the oven, allow it to rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle, making the chicken even more flavorful.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your Mediterranean bake with fresh chopped parsley before serving. This dish goes wonderfully with rice, couscous, or some crusty bread to soak up those delicious juices. Enjoy your tasty and healthy meal!
FAQ: Easy Mediterranean Chicken and Zucchini Bake
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is very adaptable. Feel free to substitute zucchini with other vegetables like bell peppers, asparagus, or eggplant. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking!
How Can I Substitute the Cheese?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can swap mozzarella for feta for a tangy twist or provolone for a different melt. Cream cheese or ricotta can also be used for a creamy texture, but they won’t have that cheesy pull.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can prep the chicken and veggies ahead of time. Simply season the chicken, mix the veggies, and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day. When you’re ready to cook, just assemble and bake as directed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or oven until heated through, and consider adding a splash of olive oil to keep it moist.
