Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake with Herbs & Cheese
This Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is the perfect one-pan comfort dish packed with lean protein, colorful vegetables, and classic Mediterranean flavors. Tender chunks of chicken breast are layered with juicy zucchini, ripe tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, then topped with creamy mozzarella and tangy feta cheese. It’s light yet filling, fresh yet cheesy—ideal for a healthy, flavorful dinner with minimal cleanup. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and easy to adapt to low-carb or keto diets.
Ready In: 45 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients
For the Chicken & Veggies:
2 medium boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
1/2 red onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Cheese Topping:
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional, for extra richness)
Optional Garnishes:
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
Prep Chicken & Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and garlic.
Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Toss everything together to coat evenly.
Assemble the Bake:
Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading evenly.
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, or until chicken is nearly cooked through and veggies are tender.
Add Cheese & Finish Baking:
Remove foil. Sprinkle mozzarella, feta, and Parmesan evenly on top.
Return to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Broil (Optional):
For a golden top, broil on high for 2–3 minutes, watching closely.
Serve:
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve with a squeeze of lemon, if desired.
Tips for the Best Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake
Cut Ingredients Evenly:
Slice zucchini and chicken into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Avoid Watery Bakes:
Zucchini releases water as it bakes. You can lightly salt and pat dry the zucchini slices beforehand, or bake uncovered for the last 10 minutes to reduce moisture.
Use Fresh Herbs If You Can:
Add fresh chopped basil, oregano, or thyme after baking for extra flavor and aroma.
Cheese Combo Tip:
Use a blend of mozzarella for melt, feta for tang, and Parmesan for umami. Don’t overload with cheese—it should enhance, not overpower.
Meal Prep Friendly:
This dish reheats well and makes a great make-ahead lunch or dinner. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Tasty Variations
Add or Swap Vegetables:
Add sliced eggplant, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
Swap zucchini for yellow squash or a combo of both for extra color.
Make It a Complete Meal:
Layer over cooked quinoa, couscous, orzo, or brown rice before baking to soak up the juices.
Or serve with warm pita bread on the side.
Use Rotisserie Chicken (Shortcut):
Already cooked chicken? Skip the raw chicken step and mix shredded rotisserie chicken with sautéed or roasted veggies. Add cheese and bake until bubbly (about 15 minutes).
Try Different Cheeses:
Use goat cheese instead of feta for creaminess.
Or try fontina, provolone, or pecorino for Mediterranean-inspired cheese swaps.
Add a Citrus Twist:
Add a few lemon slices to the bake or a splash of lemon juice before serving for brightness.
Vegetarian Version:
Skip the chicken and add cooked lentils, chickpeas, or white beans for plant-based protein.
Q&A – Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the entire bake (minus the cheese) up to 24 hours ahead. Store it covered in the fridge, then bake and top with cheese when ready to serve.
Q: What’s the best substitute for zucchini?
A: Try yellow squash, eggplant, or bell peppers. They work beautifully in this Mediterranean-style bake and hold up well in the oven.
Q: Is this dish low-carb or keto?
A: Yes, this recipe is naturally low in carbs. Just avoid serving it with grains if you’re keeping it keto-friendly.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: While you can freeze it, zucchini may release water upon thawing. For best results, freeze before baking and bake directly from frozen, adding extra time.
Q: What protein can I use instead of chicken?
A: Turkey breast, shrimp (added in the last 10 minutes), or even canned tuna (for a quicker version) work well. For a vegetarian option, use white beans or tofu.
Nutrition Facts (Estimated per serving, serves 4)
Calories: 360
Protein: 32g
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 540mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the type and quantity of cheese used.
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake with Herbs & Cheese is the perfect balance of fresh vegetables, juicy chicken, and bold Mediterranean flavor—all baked in one dish for easy prep and cleanup. Whether you’re eating low-carb, following a Mediterranean lifestyle, or just need a healthy dinner idea, this recipe delivers comfort and nourishment without the heaviness. Serve it with warm bread, grains, or a fresh lemony side salad—and enjoy the leftovers (if there are any)!