Mediterranean One-Pan Chicken, Zucchini & Cottage Cheese Skillet Bake

Mediterranean One-Pan Chicken, Zucchini & Cottage Cheese Skillet Bake

This cozy, flavorful bake brings together tender chicken, sweet sautéed zucchini, protein-rich cottage cheese, and Mediterranean herbs in a single skillet. It’s light yet satisfying, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. The cottage cheese melts into the bake, adding creaminess and a tangy lift without overpowering the dish.

Time Required:

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30–35 minutes

Total Time: 45–50 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Skillet Bake:

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced

2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced or chopped

1 small red onion, finely chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or part-skim cheese

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional but recommended)

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and black pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or dill (for garnish)

Instructions:

Preheat & Prep:

Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).

Prepare all ingredients. Pat the chicken dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.

Cook Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.

Add chicken and sauté until lightly browned on all sides (about 5–6 minutes). Remove and set aside.

Sauté Veggies:

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed.

Sauté red onion for 2–3 minutes until soft.

Add garlic and zucchini. Cook until zucchini is just tender (5 minutes).

Combine & Mix:

Return chicken to the skillet with the veggies.

Add cottage cheese, mozzarella, oregano, basil, sun-dried tomatoes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Stir to combine thoroughly. Flatten mixture slightly with a spatula.

Top & Bake:

Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using).

Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 15–18 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Garnish & Serve:

Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes.

Garnish with fresh parsley or dill. Serve warm with crusty bread, couscous, or a side salad.

Tips & Variations

Cheese Options:

Use ricotta instead of cottage cheese for a silkier texture.

Add crumbled feta on top before baking for a sharper, Mediterranean flavor.

For a golden top, broil the skillet for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking.

Veggie Swaps:

Substitute zucchini with eggplant, mushrooms, or spinach.

Add roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts for more depth.

Protein Ideas:

Swap chicken with ground turkey, lean lamb, or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

Use rotisserie chicken for a quick-prep shortcut.

Spice It Up:

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, za’atar, or a drizzle of chili oil before serving.

Stir in a tablespoon of pesto for herby richness.

Make It a Meal:

Serve with quinoa, bulgur, or a warm whole grain pita.

Pair with a Mediterranean cucumber-tomato salad or lemon herb couscous on the side.

Q&A

Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?

A: Yes! Assemble everything in the skillet and store in the fridge, covered, for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

Q: Is this dish freezer-friendly?

A: Yes. After baking, let it cool completely, then portion into containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Q: Can I make this without an oven-safe skillet?

A: Absolutely! Cook everything in a regular pan, then transfer to a baking dish before baking.

Q: Does the cottage cheese curdle or melt?

A: It softens and blends beautifully with the mozzarella. The curds mostly disappear, leaving a creamy, protein-rich sauce.

Nutrition

Values based on low-fat cottage cheese, mozzarella, and chicken breast. May vary with substitutions.

Conclusion

This Mediterranean One-Pan Chicken, Zucchini & Cottage Cheese Skillet Bake is a wholesome, protein-packed dinner that’s low in carbs, big on flavor, and easy to customize. It offers creamy textures, herby aromas, and golden cheesy goodness — all from just one pan. It’s an excellent go-to for healthy family dinners, meal prep, or anyone looking to enjoy cottage cheese in a totally delicious way.