Ekani Ella This Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake brings together the best flavors of the Mediterranean in one vibrant, healthy dish. Tender chicken breast, juicy zucchini, sweet cherry tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese come together in a light olive oil and herb dressing, baked until golden and fragrant. It’s simple, nutritious, and perfect for anyone who loves wholesome dinners that taste like sunshine on a plate.
This one-pan meal is ideal for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough for guests. Every bite bursts with freshness — making it one of those recipes you’ll keep coming back to when you crave something light yet satisfying.
What Is a Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake?
A Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a layered dish that combines tender chunks of chicken, sliced zucchini, and colorful vegetables baked together with olive oil, garlic, and herbs. The result is a healthy, low-carb meal full of classic Mediterranean flavors. Topped with feta and finished with a drizzle of lemon juice, it’s a well-balanced casserole that’s fresh, hearty, and comforting all at once.
Other Popular Casserole Recipes
Reasons to Try Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
- Nutritious and filling – Packed with lean protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
- Quick and simple – Minimal prep and a single baking dish make cleanup easy.
- Full of flavor – Olive oil, garlic, and herbs infuse every layer.
- Customizable – Works with different vegetables, cheeses, and proteins.
- Perfect for meal prep – Stays delicious for days in the fridge.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions to Prepare Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
Step 1: Preheat and prepare the dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a medium baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Mix the base ingredients
In a large bowl, combine cubed chicken, zucchini, red onion, cherry tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss well until the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated with oil and seasonings.
Step 3: Arrange the ingredients
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly into a single layer.
Step 4: Bake until tender
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. Stir halfway through cooking for even browning.
Step 5: Add cheese and finish baking
Remove from the oven, sprinkle crumbled feta and olives evenly on top, and return to the oven for 5 more minutes until the cheese slightly softens.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil over the top, squeeze lemon juice for brightness, and serve warm. This dish pairs wonderfully with couscous, quinoa, or crusty bread.
What Goes Well With Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
- Greek salad – A refreshing side that complements the baked flavors.
- Herbed couscous – Light and fluffy, perfect for soaking up the juices.
- Garlic pita bread – Great for scooping up every last bit.
- Roasted potatoes – Adds heartiness for a more filling meal.
- Lemon orzo – A tangy and fresh complement to the creamy feta topping.
Key Tips for Making Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
- Cut ingredients evenly – Helps everything cook at the same rate.
- Use fresh zucchini – Smaller zucchinis are firmer and less watery.
- Avoid overbaking – Keeps chicken juicy and vegetables tender.
- Add feta at the end – Prevents it from drying out while baking.
- Finish with lemon – Enhances the fresh Mediterranean flavor.
- Add color with herbs – Fresh basil or parsley brightens the dish.
Creative Variations of Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
- Vegetarian version – Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu.
- Creamy Greek twist – Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or tzatziki sauce.
- Spicy version – Mix in red pepper flakes or a dash of harissa paste.
- Cheesy variation – Combine mozzarella with feta for a gooey topping.
- Low-carb option – Skip the tomatoes and add extra zucchini or spinach.
Storage Guidelines for Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
- Refrigerate leftovers – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze portions – Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
- Cool before storing – Prevents condensation and sogginess.
- Label and date – Keeps track of freshness.
Reheating Tips for Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
- Oven method – Reheat covered at 325°F (160°C) for 15–20 minutes.
- Microwave method – Warm individual portions for 1–2 minutes.
- From frozen – Bake covered at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes until hot.
Nutritional Value (per serving):
- Calories: ~285
- Protein: 30 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sodium: 440 mg
Final Words
This Easy Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a light, nourishing meal that highlights everything wonderful about Mediterranean cooking — fresh vegetables, lean protein, olive oil, and herbs. It’s healthy without being boring, quick without being bland, and ideal for weeknights or weekend gatherings. Serve it with your favorite grain or salad for a meal that’s fresh, flavorful, and absolutely satisfying.
