Ingredients
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
Main Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, cubed into ½-inch pieces (uncooked)
- 2 zucchini squash, cut into half rounds
- 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Cheeses
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to ensure the bake does not stick and is easy to serve.
- Make Seasoning Mix: In a small bowl, combine the dried oregano, paprika, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. This blend will infuse the dish with Mediterranean flavors.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cubed chicken, sliced zucchini, halved grape tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, minced garlic, and olive oil. Sprinkle the prepared seasoning mix over the mixture and toss everything together so that the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated with the herbs and oil.
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Spread the seasoned chicken and vegetable mixture evenly in the greased baking dish for even cooking.
- Add Cheese and Cover: Top the mixture with shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to keep moisture in during the initial baking phase.
- Bake Covered: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake covered for 20 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and the flavors to meld.
- Uncover and Finish Baking: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is cut into even ½-inch pieces for uniform cooking.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken temperature for safety and juiciness.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Feel free to substitute mozzarella with a lower-fat cheese for a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 32 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
