Name: Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 3 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced; 1 small red onion, thinly sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 tbsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional); Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

A flavorful, wholesome bake featuring tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and Mediterranean herbs, all layered and baked to perfection for a comforting and healthy meal.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

3 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

1 small red onion, thinly sliced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp dried oregano

1/4 cup olive oil

1 tsp dried thyme

1 tsp paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Place the chicken breasts in the baking dish and brush both sides with half of the olive oil mixture.

Arrange the sliced zucchinis evenly over the chicken breasts. Scatter the cherry tomatoes, olives, and red onion slices on top. Drizzle the remaining olive oil mixture over the vegetables.

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

Remove the foil, sprinkle feta cheese on top (if using), and bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C) and the vegetables are tender.

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. The prep time is about 15 minutes, and the total cooking time is approximately 50 minutes, making the total time 65 minutes.

Variations

I like to switch up this bake by adding other Mediterranean ingredients such as artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes. Sometimes, I swap the chicken breasts for chicken thighs if I want a juicier option. For a spicier kick, adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the olive oil mixture works well. If I want to make it vegetarian, I replace the chicken with thick slices of eggplant or portobello mushrooms. Lastly, swapping out feta for goat cheese or leaving out cheese altogether can tailor the flavor to my mood.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I prefer warming it gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes to keep the chicken juicy and the vegetables tender. If I’m in a hurry, reheating in the microwave works too, though the texture of the veggies softens a bit more.

FAQs

How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?

I use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The juices should run clear, and the chicken should no longer be pink inside.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, I sometimes assemble the bake a few hours ahead, cover it, and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely, all the ingredients in this bake are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe choice if I’m avoiding gluten.

Can I use frozen zucchini instead of fresh?

Fresh zucchini works best because frozen zucchini tends to release a lot of water and can make the bake soggy. If I use frozen, I make sure to drain and pat it dry well before layering.

What can I serve with this bake?

I usually serve this Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake with a side of crusty bread, a light green salad, or some couscous for a more filling meal.

Conclusion

This Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake has become one of my go-to recipes when I want a healthy, flavorful, and fuss-free dinner. It’s packed with fresh ingredients, Mediterranean flair, and satisfying protein—all baked together in one dish. Whether for a weeknight meal or a casual dinner with friends, this bake never disappoints and always leaves me feeling nourished and happy.