This Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a light, nutritious, and flavor-packed one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Tender chicken bites are combined with fresh zucchini, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fragrant Mediterranean herbs, then baked under a golden layer of melted cheese. It’s naturally gluten-free, low-carb, and comes together in just about 40 minutes!
Ingredients
For the Chicken & Vegetables:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Mediterranean Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
Topping:
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or swap for feta for a more authentic Mediterranean flavor)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring spoons
- Spatula
Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish with olive oil. - Season the Chicken & Vegetables
In a large bowl, combine chicken, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and garlic. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle the Mediterranean seasoning over everything. Toss well to coat evenly. - Assemble the Bake
Spread the chicken and vegetable mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. - Bake
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). - Serve & Enjoy!
Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm alongside rice, quinoa, or crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Expert Tips
- Cut your vegetables evenly to ensure they cook uniformly.
- Fresh herbs really elevate the Mediterranean flavors—use them whenever you can.
- Avoid overbaking to keep the chicken juicy and tender.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t skip seasoning—let those spices shine!
- Use cheese sparingly; too much can make the dish greasy.
- Avoid overcrowding your baking dish to ensure even cooking.
Storage & Make Ahead
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or microwave in short intervals.
- Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations & Substitutions
- Make it dairy-free by swapping cheeses for vegan alternatives or skipping cheese altogether.
- Mix up the veggies — add bell peppers, mushrooms, or eggplant for variety.
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for an even juicier bake.
What to Serve With
- Steamed rice, fluffy quinoa, or roasted potatoes
- A side of hummus and olives
- Fresh Greek salad
FAQs
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the bake and refrigerate it uncooked for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.
Can I use frozen zucchini?
Fresh zucchini works best, as frozen zucchini can get mushy.
How do I make it spicier?
Add extra red pepper flakes or drizzle with harissa sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a wholesome, easy, and delicious dish that fits perfectly into your busy lifestyle. Whether for a quick dinner or meal prep, its bright flavors and comforting textures will make it a family favorite. Give it a try and enjoy the taste of the Mediterranean at home!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approx. 320 per serving