This Easy Cheesy Zucchini Chicken and Rice Bake is a cozy and comforting dish! With tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and gooey cheese, it’s a meal the whole family will love.
I enjoy how simple this recipe is—just mix everything together and let the oven do the work! Plus, it’s perfect for using up extra veggies. Who doesn’t love a one-pan dish? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish. You can swap them for thighs if you prefer darker meat; they add a richer flavor. For a vegetarian version, try replacing the chicken with chickpeas or a plant-based chicken substitute.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini gives a nice texture and flavor. If it’s out of season, yellow squash works well too. You could also use chopped spinach or kale to sneak in more greens.
Rice: Long-grain white rice makes it simple, but brown rice is a healthier option. Just keep in mind that it may need a bit longer to cook. Quinoa is also a fantastic gluten-free alternative that adds a nice nutty flavor.
Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to use your favorite cheese blend. Mozzarella can make it stretchier, while Parmesan adds a nice salty punch. If you’re looking to cut calories, consider using reduced-fat cheese.
Broth: Chicken broth enhances flavor, but vegetable broth is a great vegetarian option. You can also use homemade broth for more depth in flavor.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken just right is crucial to this dish! Here’s a simple breakdown to keep it juicy and tender:
- Cook the chicken pieces in the skillet until they’re lightly browned but not fully cooked. This ensures they remain juicy.
- When you mix the chicken with rice and broth, the remaining heat will finish cooking the chicken while keeping it moist.
- Remember, letting the dish rest after baking will help the chicken absorb flavors and juices.
With these tips, your chicken will be perfectly cooked and delicious every time! Enjoy your meal! 😊
Easy Cheesy Zucchini Chicken and Rice Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bake:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend), divided
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or mixed herbs)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a mild kick
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 50 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at about an hour and 5 minutes from start to enjoying a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a bit of oil. This will help prevent sticking!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Your kitchen should smell amazing by now!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and the dried Italian seasoning. Stir occasionally and cook for about 4-5 minutes, just until the chicken is lightly browned but not fully cooked. This step adds flavor and locks in that juicy goodness!
4. Add the Zucchini:
Stir in the diced zucchini and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until it begins to soften up a bit. Don’t worry if it’s not completely cooked; it will continue cooking in the oven!
5. Mix the Rice Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your uncooked rice, chicken broth, and milk. Whisk it together until well mixed, then add the sautéed chicken and zucchini mixture. Stir everything well to combine, ensuring the rice is coated in the broth mixture.
6. Bake It Up:
Pour the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil, which will help steam the rice while it cooks. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes.
7. Cheese It!
After 35 minutes, carefully remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the dish. It’s time for the cheesy part! Return the dish to the oven uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top. Yum!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once you take it out of the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps everything settle in. Finally, garnish with some fresh parsley or basil before serving. Enjoy this hearty, cheesy, and healthy bake as a satisfying weeknight dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice! Just keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice. You may want to increase the baking time slightly and check for doneness; the total cooking time may be closer to 50-60 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider using chickpeas or a plant-based chicken substitute instead of the chicken. You can also add extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and texture!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you can warm it in the microwave or oven. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
