Mediterranean Greek Chicken & Brie Autumn Bake
Mediterranean Greek Chicken and Brie Autumn Bake is a comforting, elegant dish that blends savory roasted chicken with creamy Brie and vibrant seasonal vegetables. This recipe brings Mediterranean flavors to a cozy fall-style bake by using olive oil, garlic, lemon, oregano, and fresh herbs to season tender chicken, while chunks of sweet squash, red onions, and cherry tomatoes roast until caramelized. The Brie melts over everything near the end, creating a luxurious, creamy finish that ties the whole dish together. It feels like a special-occasion meal but is simple enough for a relaxed weeknight dinner. This bake is perfect for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or meal prep when you want something warming and satisfying without complicated steps.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Servings: 4 to 6
Ingredients
1.5 lbs (700 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
2 cups butternut squash, cubed
1 large red onion, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1 red bell pepper, sliced
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
Salt and black pepper, to taste
7 oz (200 g) Brie cheese, sliced
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a large baking dish.
Place the chicken in the dish and pat it dry with paper towels.
Scatter the butternut squash, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and bell pepper around the chicken.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Pour the seasoned olive oil mixture over the chicken and vegetables, tossing gently to coat everything evenly.
Arrange the chicken pieces so they sit on top of the vegetables for even browning.
Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, until the chicken is almost cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Remove the dish from the oven and lay slices of Brie over the chicken and vegetables.
Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes, until the Brie is melted and lightly golden.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil before serving.
Tips
Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness and flavor.
Cut vegetables into similar sizes for even roasting.
Let Brie come to room temperature before slicing for cleaner cuts.
Add a splash of white wine to the pan for extra depth of flavor.
Stir the vegetables halfway through baking to prevent sticking.
Line the baking dish with parchment for easier cleanup.
Add the Brie at the end to prevent it from over-browning.
Rest the dish for 5 minutes before serving to let juices redistribute.
Season generously, as vegetables absorb salt while roasting.
Use fresh herbs at the end for a brighter, fresher taste.
Variations
Spinach and feta: Swap Brie for feta and add fresh spinach at the end.
Mushroom version: Add sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
Sweet potato swap: Replace squash with cubed sweet potatoes.
Creamy orzo: Stir in cooked orzo pasta before adding Brie.
Spicy kick: Add red chili flakes or harissa paste.
Mediterranean olives: Add Kalamata olives before baking.
Dairy-free: Skip the Brie or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Herb-crusted chicken: Add a breadcrumb and herb topping.
Honey-lemon glaze: Drizzle a little honey over the chicken before serving.
Tomato-rich: Add a cup of crushed tomatoes for a saucier dish.
Q & A
Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble everything (except the Brie) and refrigerate before baking.
Q2: Can I freeze this bake?
It freezes well without the Brie. Add the cheese when reheating.
Q3: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but keep an eye on them so they do not dry out.
Q4: How do I know the chicken is cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Q5: Can I make this low-carb?
Yes, use low-carb vegetables like zucchini and cauliflower.
Q6: What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs well with rice, roasted potatoes, or crusty bread.
Q7: Can I cook this in a cast iron skillet?
Yes, cast iron works perfectly for this recipe.
Q8: How long do leftovers last?
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q9: Can I add grains?
Yes, quinoa or couscous can be served alongside or mixed in.
Q10: Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, it has mild, creamy flavors that most children enjoy.
Nutrition
(Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 380
Protein: 32 g
Carbohydrates: 14 g
Fat: 22 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 5 g
Conclusion
Mediterranean Greek Chicken and Brie Autumn Bake is a beautiful balance of rustic comfort and refined flavor. The tender, herb-seasoned chicken pairs perfectly with sweet roasted vegetables and the creamy, melted richness of Brie. Every bite delivers warmth, freshness, and satisfying texture. This dish is flexible and forgiving, making it suitable for busy weeknights and impressive enough for guests. Whether you enjoy it straight from the oven or as leftovers the next day, it remains flavorful, comforting, and a wonderful way to bring Mediterranean-inspired cooking into your autumn table.