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
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
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking during baking.
- Season Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning to infuse flavor.
- Arrange Ingredients: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Surround the chicken with the sliced zucchini rounds, ensuring an even layer.
- 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.
- Add Cheese Topping: Generously cover the chicken and zucchini with the shredded mozzarella cheese, creating a melty, golden crust once baked.
- 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
