Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe

Introduction

This Chicken Zucchini Bake is a comforting and cheesy dish perfect for a simple weeknight dinner. Combining tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy cheese blend, it’s both delicious and easy to prepare.

A white shallow round dish filled with a baked egg casserole showing two visible layers: the bottom layer has a smooth yellow egg base, and the top layer is a melted, slightly browned cheese with scattered pieces of cooked brown mushrooms and green zucchini slices, all mixed with small bits of yellow squash. The surface shows a bubbly, golden texture with light herbs sprinkled. The background features a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces boneless chicken
  • 4 ounces fresh mushrooms
  • 1 medium zucchini
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups shredded Italian cheese blend
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 green onions
  • 2 large or jumbo eggs (beaten)
  • 2 teaspoons dried basil

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F.
  2. Step 2: Dice the chicken into bite-sized cubes on a cutting board.
  3. Step 3: Slice the green onions, mushrooms, and zucchini. Cut the zucchini slices into halves or quarters for even cooking.
  4. Step 4: Melt the butter in a large pan over medium heat.
  5. Step 5: Add the chicken, zucchini, mushrooms, salt, and pepper to the pan. Cook and stir often until tender, about 5 minutes. Drain the mixture in a colander to remove excess moisture.
  6. Step 6: In a bowl, mix together the shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced green onions, beaten eggs, dried basil, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  7. Step 7: Stir the cooked chicken and vegetables into the cheese mixture, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
  8. Step 8: Spray two 18.6-ounce individual baking dishes with non-stick spray.
  9. Step 9: Divide the chicken and cheese mixture evenly between the two prepared dishes.
  10. Step 10: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
  11. Step 11: Let the bake cool for 5 minutes before serving.
  12. Step 12: Serve hot dishes on pot holders or trivets to protect your table or countertop.

Tips & Variations

  • Use fresh basil instead of dried for a brighter herb flavor.
  • For extra crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before baking.
  • Swap out Italian cheese for mozzarella and Parmesan for a different cheese profile.
  • Add chopped bell peppers or spinach to increase the veggie content.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through to maintain the creamy texture.

How to Serve

The dish is a baked casserole in a white oval baking dish, filled with a golden-brown top layer that looks cheesy and slightly crispy. Under the top layer, there are visible slices of green zucchini and browned mushroom pieces scattered evenly throughout the creamy, light yellow egg base. The texture of the top is uneven with some browned spots, indicating a well-cooked crust, while the inside looks soft and moist. The baking dish edges show some baked cheese residue that is slightly browned. The surface underneath the dish is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of boneless chicken pieces?

Yes, chicken breasts work well. Just dice them into small cubes to ensure even cooking and tenderness.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze the baked dish for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool completely before covering tightly and freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Chicken Zucchini Bake Recipe


  • Author: Matteo
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x

Description

This Chicken Zucchini Bake is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy cheese mixture baked to perfection. With a combination of Italian cheese, sour cream, and herbs, it creates a rich and satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Vegetables

  • 8 ounces boneless chicken
  • 4 ounces fresh mushrooms
  • 1 medium zucchini
  • 2 green onions

Other Ingredients

  • 2 Tablespoons butter
  • Salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups shredded Italian cheese blend
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 eggs, large or jumbo (beaten)
  • 2 teaspoons dried basil

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
  2. Dice Chicken: On a cutting board, carefully cut the boneless chicken into bite-sized cubes for even cooking.
  3. Prepare Vegetables: Slice the green onions, mushrooms, and zucchini. Cut the zucchini slices into halves or quarters for manageable pieces in the bake.
  4. Melt Butter: In a large pan over medium heat, melt the butter to create a flavorful cooking base.
  5. Sauté Chicken and Vegetables: Add the diced chicken, zucchini, mushrooms, salt, and pepper to the pan. Cook and stir frequently until tender, about 5 minutes. Drain excess liquid in a colander to avoid sogginess.
  6. Mix Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine shredded Italian cheese blend, sour cream, sliced green onions, beaten eggs, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture thoroughly until well blended.
  7. Combine Ingredients: Stir the sautéed chicken and vegetables into the cheese mixture until everything is evenly coated.
  8. Prepare Baking Dishes: Spray two 18.6-ounce individual baking dishes with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
  9. Fill Dishes: Evenly divide the chicken and cheese mixture between the two baking dishes.
  10. Bake: Place the dishes in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the bake is set and lightly browned on top.
  11. Cool: Remove from oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes to let the bake firm up.
  12. Serve: Serve the Chicken Zucchini Bake hot, placing the dishes on pot holders or trivets to protect surfaces.

Notes

  • You can substitute the Italian cheese blend with mozzarella and Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
  • Use fresh herbs like basil or oregano instead of dried if preferred.
  • For a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat cheese and sour cream.
  • Ensure to drain the cooked chicken and vegetables well to avoid a watery bake.
  • This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or garlic bread.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Keywords: Chicken casserole, zucchini bake, cheesy chicken bake, Italian cheese dish, baked chicken recipe, healthy chicken dinner

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating