Name: Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced horizontally to make 4 cutlets; 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp pepper; 1 tsp instant chicken stock, optional; 2 tbsp garlic powder; 1 tbsp chopped fresh oregano or 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 zucchini, thinly sliced; 2 tomatoes, chopped; ½ onion, chopped; ½ cup shredded mozzarella; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tbsp fresh parsley, for garnish

Jump to Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with the Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake, a colorful and flavor-packed meal that layers juicy chicken, tender zucchini, and ripe tomatoes beneath a bubbling crust of mozzarella and Parmesan. This is one of those dishes that’s not only a delight for your taste buds but also a feast for your senses—the irresistible aroma of oregano and garlic mingling in your kitchen is just the beginning. And did I mention how perfectly the medley of veggies and gooey cheese come together? Whether you’re cooking for family or friends (or just treating yourself!), this Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is pure comfort with a sun-soaked twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is in its simple yet vibrant ingredients. Each one is a small building block of flavor, color, and texture—together creating a dish that feels both homey and a little bit special. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken Breasts: Slicing them into cutlets makes them extra tender and ensures everything cooks evenly.
Olive Oil: Adds richness and keeps the chicken moist, plus it imparts that classic Mediterranean feel.
Salt: Essential for bringing out all the natural flavors—don’t be shy!
Pepper: Just a touch to add pep and contrast.
Instant Chicken Stock (Optional): A sprinkle boosts savory depth, but you can totally skip if you prefer.
Garlic Powder: Gives a mellow, aromatic kick without the fuss of mincing garlic.
Fresh or Dried Oregano: The backbone of Mediterranean herbs—fresh is fabulous, but dried works beautifully.
Zucchini: Sliced thin so it bakes up tender while soaking in all the seasonings.
Tomatoes: Chopped for juicy pops of brightness.
Onion: Adds subtle sweetness as it cooks down with the veggies.
Shredded Mozzarella: Melts into perfection for that irresistibly gooey top.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Brings a salty, nutty finish to the bake.
Fresh Parsley: A final sprinkle not only adds color but also lifts all the flavors.

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400ºF (200ºC) to set the stage for all that beautiful browning. Lay out your chicken cutlets on a plate and drizzle with olive oil, followed by generous sprinkles of salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and (if you’re using it) instant chicken stock. Rub it all in so every piece is well-coated—this is where the flavor journey truly begins.

Step 2: Assemble in the Baking Dish

Lay the seasoned chicken in a baking dish, giving them a little wiggle room to cook evenly. Scatter the chopped onion around, then fan out your sliced zucchini right on top. Lastly, layer in those juicy tomatoes. Sprinkle the veggies with another light dusting of salt and pepper, and finish with a small drizzle of olive oil for good measure. You’ll see the pan start to transform into a rainbow of color!

Step 3: Cheese, Please!

Here’s where things get truly irresistible. Scatter shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese all over the chicken and veggies. The cheeses will melt and mingle, creating a luscious topping that turns this Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake into pure comfort food.

Step 4: Into the Oven

Slide the whole dish into your preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for about 20 minutes. The chicken will cook through, the veggies will soften, and the cheesy top will bubble up into a golden, appetizing crust. If you love a bit of bubbly, bronzed cheese, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes—just don’t walk away!

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for about 5 to 10 minutes. This quick breather helps juices settle and makes everything easier to serve. Pair your Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake with couscous, fluffy rice, or even a scoop of cauliflower rice. Every bite is bursting with savory Mediterranean flavors!

How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake

Garnishes

Don’t skip the finishing touch! Sprinkle a generous handful of freshly chopped parsley over your Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake before bringing it to the table. A twist of lemon or a dusting of red pepper flakes can also elevate the dish’s freshness or add a hint of heat, making each plate feel restaurant-worthy.

Side Dishes

This dish shines alongside light, flavorful sides. Fluffy couscous, herbed basmati rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option make fantastic bases that soak up all the savory juices. Add a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to round out your Mediterranean feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Dress up individual servings by stacking the chicken and veggies with a ring mold, or serve family-style straight from the baking dish for that rustic, inviting vibe. Turn leftovers into a hearty wrap or stuff them into pita breads with a spoonful of tzatziki sauce for a next-day Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake lunch you’ll look forward to!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow your leftovers to cool, then transfer them into airtight containers. The flavors only deepen overnight, making this Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake a treat the next day. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days, and enjoy the ease of meal-prepping without sacrificing quality!

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake! Place cooled portions in tightly sealed, freezer-safe containers. For best results, enjoy within 2 to 3 months. Be aware that while the zucchini may soften slightly, the overall dish reheats beautifully and holds onto its coziness.

Reheating

To reheat, simply cover and warm your serving in a 350ºF (175ºC) oven until hot (15-20 minutes usually does it). You can also zap single portions in the microwave, though the oven method helps preserve that dreamy cheesy topping.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs add extra juiciness and robust flavor to the Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake. Just note that cooking times may increase by a few minutes since thighs are thicker than cutlets.

Can I add more vegetables?

Go for it—mediterranean flavors love variety! Try adding bell peppers, eggplant rounds, or even baby spinach layered beneath the cheese for bonus color and nutrition.

What can I substitute for mozzarella?

Feel free to experiment! Fontina, provolone, or even feta can offer unique flavor twists and melt beautifully. Just pick a cheese you love, and your Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake will still be delicious.

Do I need to peel the zucchini?

Nope! The skin is tender and nutrient-rich, plus it adds a lovely hint of green to the finished dish. Just be sure to wash the zucchini well before slicing.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Look for an internal temperature of 165ºF (74ºC) at the thickest part of the chicken. The juices should run clear, and the cheese should be melted and bubbly—a sure sign your Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is ready to dive into!

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a weeknight dish that’s equal parts comforting and elegant, this Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is ready to become your go-to. Gather your favorite people, pour a glass of something crisp, and don’t be surprised when this bake becomes a much-requested staple at your table!

Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 17 reviews

Author: Mariam
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A flavorful and wholesome Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake recipe that is easy to prepare and bursting with delicious flavors. Juicy chicken breast cutlets are baked with zucchini, tomatoes, onions, and a cheesy topping for a satisfying meal.

Instructions

To make the chicken zucchini bake: Preheat your oven to 400ºF (200ºC). Add the four chicken breast cutlets to a shallow plate and season with olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, instant chicken stock, salt, and pepper.
Transfer the chicken breast to a baking dish and top with onion, sliced zucchini, and tomato. Sprinkle the veggies with salt and pepper and a drizzle of olive oil.
Top the chicken breast and vegetables with shredded Parmesan and Mozzarella cheese.
Transfer the baking dish to the oven and bake uncovered for about 20 minutes or until the chicken is done. Broil for the last 2-3 minutes if you like.
Remove the chicken casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Serve the Mediterranean chicken zucchini bake over cauliflower rice, rice, or couscous. Enjoy!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Mediterranean