Name: Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 medium zucchinis, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; ½ red onion, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 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 heat); ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Introduction

This Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a vibrant, healthy dish packed with fresh vegetables and tender chicken pieces. It’s topped with a delightful blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, making it perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.

A close-up image of a baked dish with three visible layers: the bottom layer is a golden brown crust with a slightly crispy texture; the middle layer consists of thin, round slices of green zucchini and red cherry tomatoes scattered evenly; the top layer is a mix of melted cheese with bubbly golden spots and small bits of browned meat, garnished with a few slices of red onion and fresh green herbs. The dish is served on a white plate, with the background showing a white marbled texture. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 medium zucchinis, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ red onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
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 heat)
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, toss the chicken pieces, sliced zucchini, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and minced garlic with olive oil, dried oregano, basil, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes until everything is well coated.
Step 3: Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Step 4: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.
Step 5: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 6: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving to add a fresh, bright finish.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken briefly in olive oil, garlic, and herbs before mixing.
Swap mozzarella for feta cheese to add a tangy twist that complements Mediterranean flavors.
Add sliced bell peppers or olives to the bake for additional color and texture.
Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier results.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain the bake’s texture and flavor. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the cheese from getting rubbery.

How to Serve

A close-up of a slice of pizza showing multiple layers: a golden-brown crust at the base, topped with a layer of melted cheese with a slightly bubbly texture, scattered pieces of browned sausage, slices of green zucchini, halved bright red cherry tomatoes, and thin rings of purple onion. The ingredients are fresh and colorful, with melted cheese stretching slightly between toppings. The pizza is on a white plate, and the background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the bake a few hours before cooking and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving for best results.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat or gluten ingredients.