Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe

Introduction

This Chicken Zucchini Bake is a simple, healthy dish that combines tender chicken breasts with fresh zucchini and melted mozzarella cheese. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something flavorful and fuss-free.

The image shows a white ceramic baking dish filled with a baked casserole. It has layers including sliced green zucchini and red tomato pieces scattered evenly on top. The dish is covered with melted, bubbly golden-brown cheese that has slightly browned spots, giving it a textured, crispy look. The surface of the casserole also has sprinkled herbs for added color and detail. The baking dish rests on a white marbled surface with some striped blue and white cloth visible at the corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into ½ inch rounds
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish with nonstick spray.
  2. Step 2: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning.
  3. Step 3: Arrange the seasoned chicken in the baking dish and surround it with the zucchini slices.
  4. Step 4: Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and zucchini, then sprinkle garlic powder and the remaining Italian seasoning on top.
  5. Step 5: Generously cover the chicken and zucchini with shredded mozzarella cheese.
  6. Step 6: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the cheese is golden brown.

Tips & Variations

  • For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and Italian seasoning for 30 minutes before baking.
  • Try adding sliced cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for added color and taste.
  • Use a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a richer topping.
  • If you prefer spicier, sprinkle some red pepper flakes before baking.

Storage

Store leftover Chicken Zucchini Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This dish is not ideal for freezing as the zucchini may become watery.

How to Serve

A white rectangular dish filled with a baked casserole that has three main layers: the base layer is cooked zucchini slices arranged evenly, the middle layer shows chunks of cooked chicken pieces mixed with tomato pieces, and the top layer is a golden-brown melted cheese with a bubbly texture and sprinkled with dried herbs. The dish sits on a white marbled surface with a subtle striped cloth underneath. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh zucchini to prevent excess moisture that could make the dish soggy. If using frozen, thaw and pat dry very well before baking.

Can I substitute the chicken breasts with another protein?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs or turkey cutlets can be used. Adjust the cooking time accordingly as thighs may require a few more minutes.

Print
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Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe


  • Author: Ella
  • Total Time: 40-45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

A simple and delicious Chicken Zucchini Bake featuring tender chicken breasts and fresh zucchini slices, seasoned with Italian herbs and garlic, topped with melted mozzarella cheese and baked to golden perfection. This hearty and healthy meal is perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Vegetables

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into ½ inch rounds

Seasonings and Toppings

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Season the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning evenly on both sides.
  3. Arrange in baking dish: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish and arrange the zucchini slices around the chicken, ensuring even distribution.
  4. Add oil and seasonings: Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and zucchini. Then sprinkle the garlic powder and the remaining Italian seasoning evenly on top.
  5. Top with cheese: Generously cover the chicken and zucchini with shredded mozzarella cheese to create a flavorful, melty topping.
  6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.

Notes

  • Use a meat thermometer for accurate cooking and to ensure the chicken is fully cooked but still juicy.
  • You can substitute mozzarella with a low-fat cheese to reduce calories.
  • For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and Italian seasoning for 30 minutes before cooking.
  • Serve with a side of rice, pasta, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Keywords: Chicken Zucchini Bake, Baked Chicken, Healthy Chicken Dinner, Italian Seasoned Chicken, Mozzarella Chicken Bake

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