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This Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is my secret for busy nights when I want something healthy and satisfying without a lot of fuss. You get juicy chicken, tender veggies, and bubbling cheese all in one golden pan loaded with Mediterranean flavor. The cleanup is easy enough for a weeknight, but the taste feels special enough for guests.
When I first threw this together out of what was in my fridge, my husband insisted it become a regular. Kids love the cheesy top and I love sneaking in so many veggies.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: choose fresh and firm for the juiciest result
- Zucchini: look for medium ones that feel heavy for their size and have glossy skin
- Cherry tomatoes: these add sweetness and moisture use ripe ones that feel plump
- Red onion: adds mild sharpness opt for onions with shiny skin and no soft spots
- Garlic: brings a classic Mediterranean aroma use whole fresh cloves for best flavor
- Olive oil: extra virgin works best for a fruity depth
- Dried oregano: classic Mediterranean herb plenty of aroma
- Dried basil: adds a soft herbal warmth
- Smoked paprika: gives a gentle smokiness choose a Spanish variety if you can
- Salt: crucial for seasoning use sea salt for best flavor
- Black pepper: perks up all the ingredients grind fresh if possible
- Red pepper flakes: totally optional for a bit of heat
- Mozzarella cheese: or use feta for an even bigger Mediterranean feel look for cheese that melts smoothly
- Parmesan cheese: adds sharpness freshly grated gives best results
- Fresh parsley: use flat-leaf for a bright herby finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Heat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit set the rack in the middle position and lightly coat a 9 by 13 inch baking dish with olive oil so cleanup is easier later
- Season the Chicken and Vegetables:
- In a large mixing bowl combine the chicken pieces zucchini half moons tomato halves sliced red onion and garlic drizzle with olive oil and add all the dried spices plus salt and pepper Toss everything with your hands to coat every piece evenly making sure the spices stick and every chunk of chicken shines
- Assemble the Bake:
- Spread the seasoned chicken and veggie mix out in your greased baking dish in a single even layer Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and Parmesan all over the top You want a nice distribution so every bite gets some cheese
- Bake the Dish:
- Cover the dish snugly with foil to keep things moist Bake for 20 minutes to help the chicken and veggies steam together Remove the foil and return the dish to the oven for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese gets golden and bubbly If you have a thermometer aim for the chicken to hit 165 degrees Fahrenheit right in the center
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Pull the bubbling bake from the oven sprinkle generously with fresh parsley and serve while everything is hot For a full meal I like to add rice quinoa or a hunk of good crusty bread
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My favorite part is the zucchini since it soaks up all the garlicky chicken juices and makes the whole dish taste like summer. My kids always fight over the cheesy edges so I make sure to sprinkle a little extra right at the corners. This is one of those meals that makes everyone ask for seconds.
Storage Tips
Let the bake cool completely before refrigerating Store portions in airtight containers it keeps well for up to three days For reheating bake covered at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through or microwave individual portions for a couple of minutes For longer storage freeze single servings tightly wrapped and thaw overnight before reheating
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap chicken thighs for a juicier dish or use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time If you are dairy free opt for a plant based cheese substitute For added greens toss in spinach during the last ten minutes of baking Bell peppers or eggplant also work nicely and change up the flavor a bit
Serving Suggestions
Serve with fluffy couscous lemony orzo or a green salad to complement the Mediterranean flavors This bake pairs perfectly with a spoonful of Greek yogurt on the side Garnish with more fresh herbs a squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to brighten the plate
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Cultural and Historical Context
Bakes like this draw inspiration from classic Mediterranean casseroles which take advantage of abundant summer vegetables and local cheese The method of layering and baking is common all around the coastal countries and each family has their own favorite combination The bright flavors and healthy fats in this recipe are just what the Mediterranean diet is all about
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different cheese instead of mozzarella?
Yes, feta cheese adds a classic Mediterranean flavor, or try a blend of shredded cheeses that melt well.
- → What can I serve alongside this bake?
Rice, quinoa, couscous, or crusty bread work well to soak up the tasty juices and make a complete meal.
- → How can I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Be careful not to overbake. Cover with foil initially and check for doneness at the suggested time.
- → Can the dish be made ahead?
Yes, you can assemble it up to a day ahead and bake just before serving. Store covered in the fridge until ready.
- → Is it possible to add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, eggplant, or mushrooms make tasty additions or swaps in this dish.