This Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake is a tasty mix of tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and gooey cheese all baked together. It’s like a cozy hug on a plate!
I love how simple this dish is to put together. Just layer the ingredients, sprinkle cheese on top, and let the oven do its magic. Perfect for busy days! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini gives a lovely texture and subtly sweet flavor. If zucchini isn’t in season, you can substitute with yellow squash or even eggplant. Both will work just fine!
Chicken: I always go for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their ease and quick cooking. You could also use thighs for a juicier option. If you’re vegetarian, try using chickpeas or tofu instead!
Cheese: I love melting cheddar on top for its sharp flavor, but mozzarella adds a nice stretchiness. Try mixing them! If you need a dairy-free option, vegan cheese or nutritional yeast can work as a flavorful substitute.
Rice: White rice is a great base for this dish, but you can switch to quinoa or cauliflower rice for a health boost and different texture.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Cooked Just Right?
Properly cooking chicken is essential for a tasty bake! Here’s how to do it:
- Start by searing the chicken in your skillet until it’s golden. This adds flavor!
- Cook it just until it’s lightly browned—no need for it to be completely cooked through before baking. It will finish cooking in the oven.
- Check the chicken’s temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) when done. A meat thermometer is handy for this!
Taking these steps will keep the chicken juicy and delicious in your chicken zucchini bake! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Easy Chicken Zucchini Bake with Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bake:
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella work well)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving:
- 1 cup cooked white rice (for serving)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken zucchini bake takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 20 minutes to cook in the oven. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a hearty and filling meal for your family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that it’s ready when you need it later for baking!
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes nice and translucent. This step will build a flavorful base for your dish!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Add the diced chicken pieces to the skillet. Season with paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for around 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides. It doesn’t have to be fully cooked at this point since it will finish cooking in the oven.
4. Add the Zucchini:
Now, toss the diced zucchini into the skillet with the chicken mixture. Cook for an additional 3 minutes, stirring occasionally until the zucchini begins to soften.
5. Combine and Transfer:
Carefully transfer the chicken and zucchini mixture to a baking dish. Take a moment to sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top—this is where the magic happens!
6. Bake It:
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken is fully cooked. It should register 165°F (75°C) internally.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done baking, serve the cheesy chicken and zucchini bake over a bed of warm, cooked white rice. It’s a warm, comforting meal packed with flavor!
8. Final Touch:
For an extra pop of freshness, garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro and a sprinkle of paprika before serving. Enjoy your delicious chicken zucchini bake with cheese!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Bake?
Absolutely! While zucchini is great, you can also incorporate bell peppers, spinach, or even broccoli. Just keep in mind that different vegetables may require slight modifications in cooking time.
What Can I Use Instead of Cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Alternatively, you can simply omit the cheese and add extra herbs and spices for flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or oven until heated through. A splash of broth can help re-moisten the dish if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and zucchini mixture and place it in the baking dish a day before. Just cover it tightly and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, sprinkle with cheese and bake as directed, adding a couple of extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
