Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake 

This Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake is a wholesome, one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a blend of aromatic herbs and spices. Topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, it's a flavorful and satisfying dish perfect for weeknight dinners.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Bake:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• ½ red onion, thinly sliced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• ½ teaspoon dried basil

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Topping:

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the Baking Dish:

   • Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.

3. Combine Ingredients:

   • In a large mixing bowl, toss together the chicken pieces, zucchini slices, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and minced garlic.

   • Add the olive oil, oregano, basil, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

   • Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated with the seasonings.

4. Assemble the Bake:

   • Spread the chicken and vegetable mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.

5. Add Cheese Toppings:

   • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top of the mixture.

6. Bake Covered:

   • Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes to lock in moisture.

7. Final Baking:

   • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

8. Garnish and Serve:

   • Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.

   • Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

   • Serve warm, optionally with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 395 kcal

• Protein: 37g

• Fat: 20g

• Carbohydrates: 20g

• Fiber: 7g

• Sugar: 7g

• Sodium: 676mg