This Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a tasty one-pan wonder! It features juicy chicken, fresh zucchini, and colorful peppers, all baked together with olive oil and spices.
I love how simple this dish is—just chop, mix, and bake! Plus, it makes my kitchen smell amazing, and the best part? Leftovers taste even better the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish as they stay juicy. However, you can use thighs if you prefer a richer flavor. For a faster option, rotisserie chicken works well too!
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds a nice texture, but you could substitute with yellow squash or even eggplant for a change. Just make sure to slice them thin for even cooking!
Peppers and Onions: Red bell pepper adds sweetness. If you don’t have it, any color of bell pepper can work. You could also use frozen mixed peppers for convenience. For onion, yellow or white onions are perfect substitutes!
Cheese: Mozzarella is melty and mild, while Parmesan adds a salty kick. If you can’t find them, try using cheddar for a different taste. Nutritional yeast can be a great non-dairy substitute!
How Do I Bake Chicken Perfectly?
Baking chicken can be intimidating, but it’s easier than you think! The key is to ensure it cooks evenly and stays moist. Here’s how:
- Make sure to season both sides of the chicken well for better flavor.
- Cover with foil in the first phase of baking to keep moisture in.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s perfectly cooked.
- Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking helps lock in juices, making it taste even better!
Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Bake:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into thin rounds
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish requires about 10 minutes for preparation and 40 minutes for baking, making the total time around 50 minutes. Perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your dish cooks evenly.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Drizzle olive oil into a large baking dish and spread it around to coat the bottom. This will help prevent sticking.
3. Season the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in the dish, making sure they are evenly spaced. Season both sides with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
4. Add the Vegetables:
Scatter the sliced zucchini, diced bell pepper, and diced onion evenly around and on top of the chicken. This adds lots of flavor and color to your bake!
5. Add Garlic:
Sprinkle the minced garlic over the vegetables and chicken, making sure to distribute it well.
6. Cover and Bake:
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This keeps the chicken moist and allows the flavors to meld.
7. Cheese It Up!
After 25 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle both the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken and veggies. This will create a delicious, bubbly topping.
8. Bake Again:
Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 10-15 minutes. The cheese should be melted and lightly golden, and the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
9. Let it Rest:
Once done, take the dish out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This will help the juices distribute throughout the chicken.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Now, dig in and enjoy your healthy and flavorful Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake!
FAQ for Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight before use to ensure even cooking. If you’re in a hurry, you can also thaw them quickly by placing them in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder dish, simply omit the crushed red pepper flakes. You can also add a dash of lemon juice or a teaspoon of honey to balance the heat if you want to keep a hint of spice while moderating it.
What Should I Do With Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Substitute the Zucchini?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of zucchini, you can substitute it with yellow squash, eggplant, or even broccoli or cauliflower for a different twist. Just make sure to slice them thinly for even cooking!
