This Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a tasty one-pan dish packed with juicy chicken, fresh zucchini, and tangy tomatoes. It’s colorful, healthy, and full of flavor!
You’ll love how easy it is to make! Just chop, layer, and bake—no fuss! I often serve it with some warm bread to soak up the delicious juices. Yum! 🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. If you want to save time, you can use precooked chicken or even a mix of chicken thighs, which are juicier.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds a lovely texture. If zucchinis aren’t available, yellow squash or even eggplant can work as tasty alternatives.
Bell Pepper: Red bell pepper gives sweetness and color. You could substitute with green bell pepper or other colors like yellow or orange, depending on your preference.
Cheeses: Mozzarella melts beautifully, while feta adds a tangy flavor. If you can’t find feta, try goat cheese or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for a different kind of bite.
Dried Oregano: It’s essential for that Mediterranean taste. If you don’t have it, you can substitute with mixed Italian herbs or thyme, but I find oregano gives the best flavor.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Stays Juicy and Cooked Perfectly?
A common concern is drying out the chicken. Here’s how to keep it juicy and flavorful:
- Season the chicken well with spices before baking. This adds flavor from the start.
- Covering the dish with foil during the first part of baking helps keep moisture in.
- Always check the chicken’s internal temperature using a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps the juices redistribute back into the chicken.
How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Bake:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 large tomato, diced
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 40-45 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’ll need around 55 minutes to have a delicious Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your bake cooks evenly and nicely when you put it in.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Take a large baking dish and drizzle olive oil on the bottom to coat it. This helps prevent sticking and adds flavor to your dish.
3. Season the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the dried oregano. Make sure to rub the seasonings all over the chicken for the best flavor. Then, lay the seasoned chicken in the baking dish.
4. Add the Vegetables:
Now it’s time for the veggies! Arrange the sliced zucchini, diced red bell pepper, and diced tomato around and on top of the chicken in the baking dish. This not only adds color but also lots of yummy flavors.
5. Sprinkle with Oregano:
Sprinkle the remaining oregano over both the chicken and the vegetables. This will infuse the dish with that lovely Mediterranean aroma!
6. Bake Covered:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 25 minutes. This step helps to steam the chicken and vegetables, keeping everything moist.
7. Add the Cheese:
After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and crumbled feta cheese over the top of the dish. It will create a delicious cheesy crust!
8. Bake Uncovered:
Return the dish to the oven without the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese to be melted and bubbly, and the chicken should be cooked through (check that it’s reached an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take the dish out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps everything settle. If you’d like, garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your hearty and flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite veggies like eggplant, spinach, or even broccoli. Just keep in mind that different vegetables may have varying cooking times, so check for doneness accordingly.
Can I Substitute the Chicken with Another Protein?
Yes, you can use boneless turkey breasts or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. If using a different protein, adjust cooking times accordingly—turkey may need a slightly longer cooking time, while tofu will take about the same time if pre-cooked.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave for a quick option. You can add a splash of olive oil to help retain moisture.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can assemble the dish and cover it tightly. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge—make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving!
