This Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a colorful and tasty dish! It combines juicy chicken with fresh zucchini, tomatoes, and a sprinkle of tasty herbs.
I love how everything cooks together in one pan—less cleaning is a win! Plus, it’s healthy and packed with flavor, making it a great weeknight dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: You can use boneless, skinless thighs or breasts based on your texture preference. Thighs bring more moisture, while breasts are leaner. If you prefer plant-based options, try substituting with firm tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian meal.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is crucial for adding texture. If zucchini isn’t available, yellow squash or eggplant can work. Just keep the thickness of the slices similar so they cook evenly.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and juiciness. You can swap them for diced regular tomatoes or use sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor. Just adjust the moisture level in your bake accordingly.
Herbs: Fresh herbs are delicious, but you can use dried ones if that’s what you have. Basil, oregano, and thyme are the best pairings. If you want to experiment, try rosemary or Italian seasoning for a different twist!
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting perfectly cooked chicken is essential for this dish. Here’s how to monitor your chicken while cooking:
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Place chicken in the center of the baking dish for even cooking. Avoid overcrowding.
- If your chicken is thick, you might want to pound it slightly to ensure even cooking time.
- Let it rest for a few minutes after baking. This keeps the juices in and ensures every bite is moist.
Enjoy your cooking adventure—this dish is bound to be a family favorite!
Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30–35 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need around 45–50 minutes to have this delightful dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step ensures your dish cooks evenly and to perfection.
2. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. This will create a delicious herb blend to flavor your chicken.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, making sure to coat them well in your herb and oil mixture. This helps to infuse the chicken with fantastic flavors as it cooks.
4. Arrange in Baking Dish:
In a baking dish, arrange the coated chicken thighs evenly across the bottom. Then, surround and top them with the sliced zucchini and cherry tomatoes, creating a colorful and inviting layout.
5. Drizzle Remaining Mixture:
Drizzle any leftover herb mixture over the vegetables. This ensures everyone gets a taste of that delicious flavor!
6. Bake Until Cooked:
Bake uncovered for about 30–35 minutes. You’ll want the chicken to be cooked through (an internal temperature of 165°F/75°C) and the vegetables to be tender. Check these towards the end of the cooking time.
7. Add Cheese (Optional):
If you’re using cheese, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella or Parmesan on top during the last 5 minutes of baking. This allows it to melt and slightly brown, adding an extra layer of flavor.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, garnish your lovely bake with fresh chopped parsley. Serve it warm, and enjoy this delightful Mediterranean dish!
This bake pairs beautifully with rice, couscous, or a fresh green salad for a wholesome Mediterranean-inspired meal. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
FAQ for Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way is to leave it in the fridge overnight or use the quick method by submerging it in cold water in a sealed bag. Pat it dry before seasoning for the best results!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and vegetables in advance, then cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cook time if starting from the fridge to ensure everything heats through evenly.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat, being careful not to overcook the chicken!
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
This bake is very versatile! You can add bell peppers, eggplant, or even spinach for extra nutrients and flavor. Just be mindful of the cook times for different vegetables—harder ones like carrots may require pre-cooking!
