This Easy Italian Chicken and Zucchini Bake is a tasty one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy nights. Juicy chicken mixed with fresh zucchini and Italian spices is a winner!
I love how simple this dish is to throw together. Just layer everything in a baking dish, pop it in the oven, and relax. Plus, it’s healthy, too! What’s not to love? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep the dish lean and tender. You can also use thighs for more flavor or even turkey breast if you’re looking for a healthier option.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds a nice crunch. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash or eggplant are great alternatives that will work well in this dish.
Cherry Tomatoes: They bring a burst of sweetness. You can substitute with diced regular tomatoes or even use spinach if you prefer more greens.
Cheese: I love mozzarella for its meltiness. If you’re dairy-free, try vegan mozzarella or skip cheese altogether and sprinkle on nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Getting the chicken just right is key for this recipe. Here’s how to ensure you cook it perfectly:
- Check the thickness of your chicken breasts. If they’re uneven, consider pounding them to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety and juiciness.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking; this keeps it juicy as the juices redistribute.
Cooking at the right temperature ensures golden cheese and perfectly tender chicken – it’s a win-win!
Easy Italian Chicken and Zucchini Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes to prep, and then you’ll bake it for 25-30 minutes. So, in total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First things first! Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it nice and hot while you prepare the meal.
2. Season the Chicken:
In a large mixing bowl, take your chicken breasts and add the olive oil, minced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the chicken is well coated with the tasty mixture.
3. Arrange in Baking Dish:
Grab a baking dish and lay the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom. This ensures they cook evenly!
4. Add Zucchini and Tomatoes:
Now, it’s time to add the vegetables! Scatter the sliced zucchini and halved cherry tomatoes around and on top of the chicken. This will not only make it colorful but also super tasty!
5. Sprinkle the Cheeses:
Next, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses evenly over the chicken and veggies. Cheese makes everything better, right?
6. Bake in the Oven:
Pop the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes. You want the chicken to be fully cooked (165°F or 75°C) with melted, golden cheese on top.
7. Rest and Garnish:
Once done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle. If you like, sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top before serving for an extra touch of flavor!
Enjoy your delicious and easy Italian chicken and zucchini bake! It’s a family-friendly meal that everyone will love!
FAQ for Easy Italian Chicken and Zucchini Bake
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the chicken first. Best practices include thawing it in the fridge overnight or using the cold water method: seal the chicken in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about an hour.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply replace the chicken with sliced portobello mushrooms or extra tofu and consider adding more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. You can still keep the cheese for extra flavor, or use a plant-based cheese if you prefer.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to include other veggies like bell peppers, onions, or even eggplant. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes as the zucchini for even cooking.
