Creamy Chicken and Zucchini Bake Recipe
Introduction
This Chicken Zucchini Bake is a simple and satisfying dish perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner. Combining tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and melted cheese, it’s both comforting and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish lightly to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: Layer the sliced zucchini at the bottom of the dish evenly.
- Step 3: Spread the cooked chicken evenly over the zucchini layer.
- Step 4: Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the chicken layer.
- Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden, and the zucchini is tender.
- Step 6: Remove from oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella and parmesan for extra flavor and gooey texture.
- Add herbs such as thyme or oregano between layers to enhance the taste.
- For a low-carb option, substitute zucchini with sliced eggplant or cauliflower.
- Use leftover roasted chicken to save time and add more flavor.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. To maintain crispness, reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes is best.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked chicken?
It’s best to use cooked chicken to ensure the bake cooks evenly and the chicken stays tender. If using raw chicken, cut it into small pieces and cook it thoroughly before layering.
What type of cheese works best for this bake?
Mild cheeses like mozzarella melt nicely, while sharper cheeses like cheddar add more flavor. Mixing different cheeses can create a richer taste and appealing texture.
PrintCreamy Chicken and Zucchini Bake Recipe
This Chicken Zucchini Bake is a simple, wholesome casserole combining tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and melted cheese for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is baked to perfection, allowing the ingredients to meld together beautifully while keeping the chicken juicy and the zucchini tender.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
Vegetables
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
Cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole evenly.
- Prepare the ingredients: Slice the zucchinis and shred or dice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Layer the bake: In a baking dish, start by spreading a layer of chicken evenly on the bottom, then add a layer of sliced zucchini on top, and finally sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over it.
- Bake the casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden, and the zucchini is tender.
- Serve: Once baked, allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this hearty and healthy chicken zucchini bake warm.
Notes
- You can use a mix of cheeses for added flavor, such as mozzarella and parmesan.
- For extra seasoning, sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, or Italian herbs before baking.
- Using pre-cooked chicken speeds up the preparation time.
- To reduce moisture, salt the zucchini slices and let them sit for 10 minutes, then pat dry before layering.
Keywords: chicken zucchini bake, baked chicken casserole, healthy chicken recipe, zucchini recipes, easy chicken bake
