Description
This Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a healthy and flavorful one-dish meal combining tender chicken breasts, fresh zucchinis, cherry tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. Topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, it’s easy to prepare and perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Toppings
- Olive oil, for greasing and drizzling (about 2-3 tablespoons)
- 2 tablespoons dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the dish evenly.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking and add a subtle flavor.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the boneless chicken breasts, sliced zucchinis, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and minced garlic.
- Add Seasonings: Drizzle olive oil over the mixture, then sprinkle in dried oregano, dried basil, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Toss everything well to coat the chicken and vegetables thoroughly with the olive oil and spices.
- Arrange in Dish: Spread the seasoned chicken and vegetable mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish, ensuring an even layer for consistent cooking.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the top of the mixture with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses to create a flavorful, cheesy crust as it bakes.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 20 minutes to allow the chicken and vegetables to cook through and flavors to meld.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is golden brown, bubbly, and slightly crisp on top.
- Garnish and Serve: Take the dish out of the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a bright, fresh finish, and serve warm.
Notes
- For thicker chicken breasts, consider slicing them in half horizontally for more even cooking.
- If you prefer spicier dishes, increase the red pepper flakes or add chopped fresh chili.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This dish pairs well with a side of whole grain bread or a light Greek salad.
- To make this recipe gluten free, ensure the cheese used is certified gluten free.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: Mediterranean chicken, zucchini bake, healthy chicken recipe, baked chicken and vegetables, mozzarella chicken bake, easy dinner ideas
