This Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a colorful one-pan meal you’ll love! Juicy chicken meets fresh zucchini, tomatoes, and a sprinkle of herbs for a tasty treat.
I enjoy tossing this bake together on busy nights. It’s low in fuss and high in flavor. Plus, who doesn’t like a dish that practically cleans itself? 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness. If you have chicken breasts, they can work too, just be careful not to overcook them.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis are a must for this dish. If you can’t find any, yellow squash could be a nice substitute. They offer a similar texture and taste.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness to the bake. If they’re out of season, you could use diced canned tomatoes or even bell peppers for a different twist.
Cheese: I love the combination of mozzarella and feta in this recipe. If you prefer something lighter, go for low-fat mozzarella, or swap feta for goat cheese for a tangy flavor.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances the dish’s flavor. If you need a substitute, avocado oil works well and has a higher smoke point.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken perfectly is key to this dish. Aim for juicy, tender meat without drying it out. Here’s how:
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- If you’re using chicken breasts instead of thighs, consider pounding them to an even thickness for more uniform cooking.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven to keep the juices locked in.
Enjoy making this Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake, and don’t forget to share it with family or friends!
Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Chicken: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- Vegetables: 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- Tomatoes: 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Garlic: 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Cheese: 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Feta: 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Herbs: 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Herbs: 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Spices: 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 10 minutes to prep, and then you’ll bake it for a total of 35 minutes—25 minutes first without cheese, and then 10 minutes with cheese on top. So, in around 45 minutes, you’ll have a delicious healthy meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot by the time you finish prepping. Then, grab a large baking dish for all your delicious ingredients!
2. Layer Your Zucchini and Tomatoes:
Start by arranging the sliced zucchinis evenly in the baking dish. Make sure to cover the bottom nicely. Next, scatter the halved cherry tomatoes on top. They’ll add a lovely sweetness to the bake!
3. Season the Veggies:
Now, drizzle the olive oil over the veggies and sprinkle on the minced garlic, oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Give it all a gentle toss with your hands. We want every piece coated in flavor!
4. Add the Chicken:
Next, season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and a little extra paprika for extra kick. Place the seasoned chicken on top of the zucchini and tomatoes, nestling them right in.
5. Bake the Dish:
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 25 minutes. This will allow the chicken to start cooking and the vegetables to soften beautifully.
6. Cheese, Please!
After 25 minutes, carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Now it’s time for the best part! Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and crumbled feta over the chicken and veggies evenly.
7. Final Bake:
Put the baking dish back in the oven for another 10 minutes. This will let the cheese melt, bubble, and get wonderfully golden!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, you can take it out of the oven. Sprinkle some fresh parsley or basil on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Now, it’s time to dig in!
This dish offers moist, flavorful chicken with tender zucchini and sweet roasted tomatoes, highlighted by Mediterranean herbs and cheeses—a wholesome and easy weeknight dinner!
FAQ for Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Bake?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, eggplant, or even spinach. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if using veggies that require different cooking durations.
What Should I Serve with This Dish?
This Mediterranean bake is delicious on its own but pairs well with a side of rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the juices. A simple green salad would also complement it nicely!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave it in shorter bursts while covered to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
You can prep this dish ahead of time! Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to cook.
