Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe

Introduction

This Chicken Zucchini Bake is a simple, wholesome meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts baked with fresh zucchini and melted mozzarella make for a flavorful and satisfying dinner.

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 the oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Step 2: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning.
3. Step 3: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the baking dish and arrange the zucchini slices around them.
4. Step 4: Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and zucchini, then sprinkle the garlic powder and remaining Italian seasoning on top.
5. Step 5: Cover the chicken and vegetables generously with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Step 6: 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 and bubbly.

Tips & Variations

• Try adding sliced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
• Use a mixture of mozzarella and parmesan cheese for a sharper taste.
• If you prefer, swap the zucchinis for yellow squash or eggplant slices.
• Marinate the chicken breasts in olive oil and herbs for 30 minutes before baking to boost flavor.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through to avoid drying out the chicken.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

It’s best to use fully thawed chicken breasts to ensure even cooking. If using frozen, make sure to thaw completely before preparing.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the mozzarella cheese or substitute with a dairy-free cheese alternative that melts well.

Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe

---

★★★★★

4.5 from 58 reviews

• Author: Lily
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Fat

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

Description

This Chicken Zucchini Bake is a simple, wholesome dish perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner. Tender, seasoned chicken breasts are baked alongside fresh zucchini slices, topped with melted mozzarella cheese and a flavorful blend of Italian herbs and garlic powder. Ready in under an hour, it combines protein and vegetables in one satisfying casserole.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (half of the total 2 tsp)

Vegetables

• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into ½ inch rounds

Seasonings & Oils

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (remaining half)

Cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

---

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking during baking.
2. Season Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning to infuse flavor.
3. Arrange Ingredients: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Surround the chicken with the sliced zucchini rounds, ensuring an even layer.
4. Add Oil and Spices: Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and zucchini. Then sprinkle the garlic powder and the remaining Italian seasoning evenly on top to enhance the dish’s aroma and taste.
5. Add Cheese Topping: Generously cover the chicken and zucchini with the shredded mozzarella cheese, creating a melty, golden crust once baked.
6. Bake Until Done: 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

• You can substitute mozzarella with a low-fat cheese to reduce calories.
• Ensure chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.
• Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra flavor if desired.
• Serve with a side salad or crusty bread to complete the meal.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Keywords: Chicken Zucchini Bake, healthy chicken dinner, baked chicken recipe, zucchini casserole, Italian seasoning chicken