This Easy Italian Chicken and Zucchini Bake is a tasty one-pan wonder! Juicy chicken and fresh zucchini come together with Italian seasoning and cheese for a simple meal that’s sure to please.
It’s like a cozy hug in a dish! I love how quickly it comes together; just toss everything in the pan and let it bake. Perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without a fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Zucchini adds great texture and absorbs flavors well. If you can’t find zucchini, you can use yellow squash or even bell peppers for a different twist.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep it light. You can substitute with thighs for more flavor, or use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought is quick, but homemade is always better if you have the time. A jar of any tomato sauce with Italian spices will do in a pinch.
Cheese: I love shredded mozzarella for its meltiness, but feel free to use provolone or a blend. For a dairy-free option, try a nut-based cheese or nutritional yeast as a topping.
How Can I Ensure My Zucchini is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting zucchini just right is key to this dish. You want it tender but not mushy. Here’s a simple way to achieve that:
- Slice zucchini evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Sauté in olive oil over medium heat for just 3-4 minutes until slightly soft but still crisp.
- Don’t overcook—remember, they will continue to cook in the oven!
This balance will keep them flavorful and vibrant in the bake.
Easy Italian Chicken and Zucchini Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bake:
- 2 large zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and approximately 25 minutes in the oven. So, in about 35-40 minutes, you’ll have a hearty meal ready to serve. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready to bake your dish. This ensures even cooking. While that heats up, gather your ingredients and get everything prepped!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, toss in the chicken pieces. Season them with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook while stirring for about 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is lightly browned and cooked through. This gives your dish that delicious chicken flavor!
3. Sauté the Zucchini:
In the same skillet, add your sliced zucchini. Lightly sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, just until they start to soften. You want them tender but still crisp. This will help keep the texture nice in the bake!
4. Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken, sautéed zucchini, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning. Mix everything together well, coating all the pieces evenly with the sauce.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly so it cooks uniformly.
6. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese generously over the top. This will create a delicious, cheesy crust when it bakes!
7. Bake It:
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes. Look for the cheese to be melted, bubbly, and lightly golden. This is the time to let those lovely flavors meld together!
8. Serve:
Once done, remove your bake from the oven and let it cool slightly. This will help it firm up a bit for easier serving.
9. Garnish and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving. Now you’re ready to dig into this comforting, cheesy Italian-inspired dish!
Enjoy your meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Absolutely! You can substitute zucchini with vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even eggplant. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in the oven to keep the cheese nice and melty. You can also microwave it, but be sure to cover it to avoid drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the dish ahead of time, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What Can I Serve This Dish With?
This chicken and zucchini bake pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or garlic bread. For a low-carb option, serve it with steamed broccoli or cauliflower rice!
