This Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a crowd-pleaser! Juicy chicken and fresh zucchini come together with tasty herbs and cheese for a delightful meal.
I appreciate how simple this dish is to whip up, and it’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy dinner with friends. Plus, who can resist that cheesy topping? Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe due to their quick cooking time. If you have thighs instead, they work too and provide a juicier bite.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds a nice texture. If they’re not available, try yellow squash or thinly sliced eggplant. Both will add a lovely flavor.
Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes add sweetness, but diced canned tomatoes work in a pinch. Just make sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
Cheese: I love mozzarella for that gooey texture, but feel free to mix in feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist. If you’re looking to reduce calories, use low-fat cheese options.
How Do I Bake Juicy Chicken in the Oven?
To ensure your chicken comes out juicy and tender, it’s key to not overcook it. Here are some tips:
- Start with properly pre-heated oven at 375°F (190°C). This helps cook the chicken evenly.
- Cover with foil for the first half of baking to keep moisture locked in, then uncover to get that cheese nice and bubbly.
- Always check for doneness by using a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C) to be fully cooked but not dry.
These steps will help you achieve perfectly cooked chicken every time!
Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
Ingredients:
- Protein:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Vegetables:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into thin rounds
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered or 1 large tomato, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Cheese:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Seasoning:
- 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
- Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Estimated Time:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 40 minutes to cook, totaling approximately 50 minutes from start to finish. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that everything cooks evenly.
2. Prepare the Base:
In a large oven-safe baking dish, drizzle olive oil. Spread the chopped onion and minced garlic evenly across the bottom of the dish. This creates a fragrant base for the chicken.
3. Add the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts on top of the onion and garlic layer. Season generously with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil for flavorful chicken.
4. Layer the Vegetables:
Next, layer the sliced zucchinis and diced tomatoes evenly over and around the chicken breasts. This adds color and nutrition to your dish!
5. Spice It Up:
If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the top. It’s optional, but it adds a lovely kick!
6. Cheese It Up:
Now, it’s time to generously top everything with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese for that gooey, cheesy goodness.
7. Bake:
Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to keep the chicken moist.
8. Finish Baking:
Remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for another 10-15 minutes. You want the cheese to be golden brown and bubbly, and the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
9. Let It Rest:
Once done, carefully remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices settle!
10. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean wonder!
Dig in and savor the rich flavors of this Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake that’s sure to be a hit with everyone!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Bake?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the zucchini and tomatoes for other veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or even mushrooms. Just keep in mind that cooking times for different vegetables may vary slightly.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the dish up to the point of baking and then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through. Adding a splash of olive oil can help revive the texture!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily turn this into a vegetarian dish by omitting the chicken and increasing the amount of zucchini, tomatoes, and other veggies. Consider adding chickpeas or a bean mixture for extra protein!
